Darwin manufacturer secures $650k to develop flatpack steel furniture for remote housing

Darwin Sheet Metal and Laser Cutting has received $650,098 from the Northern Territory Government's Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund to develop innovative flatpack stainless steel furniture targeting remote Aboriginal housing projects, according to an announcement on Tuesday.

The $4.16 million, 18-month project will see DSM invest in Territory-first automated precision laser-cut tube machinery, specifically a Trumpf TruLaser 7000 machine, to produce modular kitchens, pantries, bedrooms and laundries with QR-coded laser technology for digitally guided assembly.

DSM owner Ashton Simpson said the project will actively use local materials and suppliers to enhance the Northern Territory manufacturing ecosystem. “By sourcing materials such as steel from local suppliers and collaborating with NT-based contractors and builders like WTD Constructions, the project will reduce reliance on interstate imports,” Simpson said on Tuesday.

The company estimates at least 2,000 near-term opportunities in current remote building programs, which would otherwise be met by imported products. Project partners include Liquid Interactive, designing the QR-coded technology, and WTD Construction, providing remote housing expertise.

The initiative is expected to create 11 new jobs in Darwin over three years and generate $3 million in new revenues. DSM has also developed a circular waste steel program creating build-your-own scooters for high school STEM students to promote industry interest and school attendance.

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