The case for change
A number of key drivers are influencing capital and decision making in the manufacturing industry.
Geopolitical risks and influences on supply chains
The turbulent global environment is reshaping our industries and trade settings. It's critical to monitor supply chain vulnerabilities to plan for supply chain risks and to ensure ongoing access to essential goods and services.
How we're responding
Queensland has a strong global reputation as a safe and reliable trading partner, and we support manufacturers to build resilient supply chains and explore opportunities for diversification.
Productivity and innovation
Innovation typically leads to higher productivity, brings spillover benefits to other industries and contributes to economic growth. Queensland is a knowledge state with idea generation; however, some ideas and patents remain in research and development. Converting those ideas into a commercial product and providing pathways to skills, funding and markets to scale will drive productivity growth.
How we're responding
We foster collaboration between government, industry, vocational and higher education institutions, and the advanced manufacturing facilities and hubs such as the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub to drive commercialisation of innovative technologies, products and processes.
Artificial intelligence transformation
Digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) development is foundational to future productivity growth and is moving fast. AI solutions can streamline operations, boost productivity and unlock new opportunities for growth.
How we're responding
We will work with manufacturers and key partners to measure AI maturity, and to prepare manufacturers and their workforce to build awareness and adoption of AI.
Labour supply and skills, and technology adoption
Labour supply and skills gaps remain a pressure point on Queensland's manufacturing industry. There remains high demand for technical and trade skills, and professional workforces. Further, fostering a workforce skilled in areas such as collaborative robotics and technology adoption will help meet the demands of advanced manufacturing and strengthen the state's economy.
How we're responding
The Queensland Government is establishing initiatives such as the $60 million TAFE Centre of Excellence at Moreton Bay, and our regional Manufacturing Hubs, Manufacturing Skills Queensland and the ARM Hub are helping to build the skills Queensland needs now, and for the future.
Affordable, reliable and sustainable energy as the global community transitions to a low-carbon economy
Access to affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity is necessary as energy costs mount. Manufacturing input costs, energy costs, and especially gas prices, have risen steeply with compounded effects from recent conflicts across the world.
How we're responding
Queensland is supporting manufacturers by putting downward pressure on energy prices through making more areas available for gas development to increase supply. Further, record investment in CopperString will ultimately deliver grid-connected energy to more parts of regional and rural Queensland that will support manufacturing.
Maximising public and private procurement
How we're responding
Local manufacturers who are making the component parts to supply into major supply chains will be considered as part of future procurement for major projects, and regional supply chains tested for capability and capacity.
The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will act as a catalyst for Queensland businesses to develop, grow and provide early opportunities to increase the firm's capability and tender readiness for potential contracts.
Showcase manufacturing to attract the next generation of workers and build an inclusive industry
Manufacturing has an exciting and diverse range of subsectors and career paths. It's not just about making things; it is about innovation, problem solving and driving progress to support key sectors and opportunities.
How we're responding
Through our Manufacturing Hubs, we promote manufacturing to schools, parents and primary and secondary school students to build early awareness of careers in the industry. We have a strong focus on attracting and retaining women in the industry under our Women in Manufacturing program to increase women's economic security.
We will showcase the breadth of manufacturing for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- Last updated
- 24 September 2025
- Last reviewed
- 24 September 2025