Australia has announced a major investment of AUD 271 million to establish the Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC), backed by significant federal government funding. The initiative aims to strengthen the nation’s production capabilities and position Australia as a global leader in sustainable advanced manufacturing. The AMCRC unites 101 partners across industry, academia, and government, accelerating the development and adoption of cutting-edge 3D printing technologies. Through this collaborative platform, Australia is laying the groundwork for future industrial innovation and resilience.
A Catalyst for Industrial Transformation
At the heart of Australia’s manufacturing revival, the AMCRC is focused on advancing the widespread integration of additive manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D printing. This transformative technology enables rapid, customized production of complex components, impacting sectors ranging from defense and aerospace to healthcare, automotive, and construction.
Simon Marriott, AMCRC Bid Lead and Director, emphasized the significance of the federal government’s $58 million funding contribution, calling it “critical for ensuring the future of Australian manufacturing.” As Australia transitions to a net-zero economy, he noted, additive manufacturing will be vital in seizing emerging opportunities and driving sustainable growth.
Over the past decade, additive manufacturing has moved from limited prototyping applications to full-scale commercial production. Innovations in material diversity, scalability, and precision are reshaping traditional manufacturing processes and supply chains—cutting delivery times, reducing material waste, and ushering in a new era of efficient, sustainable production.
Broad Industry Support
The AMCRC has attracted robust industry participation, including major corporations such as Boeing, along with 73 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and three leading industry associations. These partners are committed to developing new capabilities, technologies, and processes that support a more resilient and sustainable Australian supply chain.
Matthew Wall, Head of Additive Manufacturing and Innovation at Boeing Aerostructures Australia, highlighted the importance of AM to future aerospace manufacturing, stating: “Boeing is committed to advancing additive manufacturing and sees the AMCRC as a critical platform for collaboration with Australia’s top research and technology developers.”
The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), the nation’s leading manufacturing body, also praised the initiative. AMTIL CEO and AMCRC Director Lorraine Maxwell remarked, “Additive manufacturing represents a fast track for Australia’s manufacturing sector to strengthen its competitiveness on the global stage.”
Investing in Talent for the Future
With Australia already ranking fifth globally in the number of additive manufacturing researchers, the AMCRC will further strengthen talent pipelines by partnering with 13 universities and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). Its strategy includes industry-led PhD programs, expanding undergraduate pathways, and scaling vocational training opportunities to equip the next generation of specialists.
“Through education and training initiatives, we are building the workforce that will drive Australia’s next industrial revolution,” said Marriott.
Positioning Australia as a Global Additive Manufacturing Leader
Susan Jeanes, Chair of the AMCRC, concluded, “This investment will enable Australia to fully leverage its distinctive expertise in additive manufacturing research, opening new frontiers for innovation, collaboration, and global market expansion.”
Australia’s AMCRC initiative demonstrates a comprehensive approach, combining:
- Strong Policy Support: Backed by significant federal funding.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Engaging a wide network across industry, academia, and government.
- Technology Leadership: Pioneering advanced manufacturing techniques to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
- Talent Development: Prioritizing education and workforce training to secure future growth.
Through the AMCRC, Australia is taking decisive steps toward building a more efficient, innovative, and sustainable manufacturing sector, contributing to global efforts to transform the future of industry.