Taskforce set to reinvigorate NSW modern manufacturing

The New South Wales government has announced a new taskforce designed to renew NSW’s manufacturing sector, with the aim of accelerating adoption and development of modern manufacturing capabilities across industry sectors in Australia’s largest state.

Minister for enterprise, investment and trade Stuart Ayres said NSW’s Modern Manufacturing Taskforce brings together research, academia and industry experts to drive innovation, productivity and competitiveness in NSW, and generate more and better jobs.

Ayres said: “NSW already has an excellent reputation in manufacturing, in sectors ranging from food and beverage to aerospace.

“This group will hone the opportunity we have post-COVID to address challenges to build a manufacturing powerhouse.”

The Modern Manufacturing Taskforce will be chaired by business leader Tony Shepherd AO and comprises:

• Chris Jenkins – Country Director and CEO, Thales Australia
• Dr Bronwyn Evans AM – CEO, Engineers Australia
• Professor Roy Green – Special Innovation Adviser, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Enterprise), University of Technology Sydney
• And Dig Howitt – CEO and President, Cochlear.

Professor Green is a member of the @AuManufacturing News and Media editorial advisory board.

Over a four-month period, the taskforce will identify and review opportunities to strengthen local research, collaboration and partnerships between government, research institutions and industry to grow modern manufacturing capabilities in NSW.

A report will consolidate its recommendations to inform a revised NSW manufacturing strategy, to be prepared by a to-be-appointed Modern Manufacturing Commissioner.

Shepherd said: “Taskforce members have specialist experience and skills, relevant network connections and an understanding of the NSW business environment and opportunities for modern manufacturing.”

Picture: Stuart Ayres

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