Can Industry 4.0 rescue Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capability?

Australian manufacturers need to capitalise on the opportunities presented by Industry 4.0 or be left behind, warns Martin Ripple. As governments around the world embrace the fourth industrial revolution, also known as Industry 4.0, Australia is at risk of being left behind after decades of government neglect of the nation’s manufacturing centres. Sadly, I’ve seen…

Seven things you need to know about lithium-ion battery safety

Dr Matthew Priestley explains why greater respect and education is needed regarding the use of lithium-ion batteries at home and in the workplace. Lithium-ion batteries are the most widespread portable energy storage solution – but there are growing concerns regarding their safety. Data collated from state fire departments indicate that more than 450 fires across Australia…

Robots and radiotherapy among projects awarded $18 million in Accelerating Commercialisation grants

More than 30 projects were awarded grants under the federal Accelerating Commercialisation program last week, ranging from pilot-scale superconductor manufacturing to an autonomous vehicle to assist blasting at mine sites. Accelerating Commercialisation is part of the AusIndustry Entrepreneurs’ Programme, and provides funding and advice to help “[b]usinesses, start-ups and researchers” reach global markets with “a…