http:// 2013-02-07T21:18:42Z 2013-02-07T21:18:42Z austech-2013-manufacturers-pavilion-speaker-program-launched

Melbourne, 07 February 2013 – AUSTECH 2013, Australia’s premier advanced precision manufacturing and machine tool exhibition, co-hosted with National Manufacturing Week (NMW), will this year feature presentations from renowned industry experts in a new dedicated event zone. Speakers from industry, politics and science will discuss the possibilities of improving manufacturers’ competitiveness through research, innovation and technology. The organisers expect an audience of more than 10,000 to gather at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre from 7 to 10 May. About 87% of the attendees at AUSTECH are in middle or senior management positions. This group is an important audience segment, not just because of its size but also because these professionals play a key role in shaping the future of Australian manufacturing. In order to better serve this key group, AUSTECH organiser AMTIL (Australian Manufacturing Institute Limited) launches the “Manufacturers Pavilion” at its 2013 edition in Melbourne. The Manufacturers Pavilion highlights the capabilities of Australia’s precision engineering and advanced manufacturing industry and provides Australian component manufacturers, precision engineering firms, toolmakers, advanced manufacturers and general engineering companies the opportunity to exhibit their unique capabilities. Supported by the Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education (DIISRTE) and sponsored by the Advanced Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC), the Pavilion will be a focal point and provide a great forum for local manufacturers to put themselves in front of AUSTECH visitors, many of whom outsource and contract out their work. For the first time this year, the Manufacturers Pavilion includes speeches and discussions with key industry people who give their time for free in order to impart their knowledge in this new dedicated event zone. CSIRO’s Dr Calum Drummond, Group Executive for Manufacturing, Materials and Minerals will present on CSIRO’s capability and role in helping Australian manufacturers innovate in an increasingly competitive environment. He will discuss the importance of innovative thinking and collaboration, and how technology can be transformational for SMEs in Australia. “This event is a major opportunity for CSIRO to further connect with industry, underline the increasing importance of technology and innovation, and to share some of the business successes we have helped to facilitate. I hope to provide a unique insight into our capability and give business owners a fresh perspective on the changing face of manufacturing and the opportunities available to them through precincts, clusters, networks and R&D to access innovative technologies and minds,” Dr Drummond says. More investment in intelligent manufacturing techniques and prioritising key technologies are crucial if Australia is to avoid losing its competitive edge in manufacturing, especially in the high-cost environment Australia’s manufacturers operate in. Göran Roos, Chairman of the Advanced Manufacturing Council in Adelaide and a member of the Economic Development Board and the Advisory Board of Invest in South Australia as well as of CSIRO’s Manufacturing Sector Advisory Council,agrees and adds that manufacturing is the biggest spender of applied research and innovation with spillover effects into the rest of the economy. He points out that manufacturing is changing due to technology changes and the provision of both service and manufacturing offerings from what once were pure manufacturing firms. “Australian firms have to change their world view as well as their behaviour if they are to become successful in a high-cost environment,” he says. “The primary responsibility for this falls in the firm’s management, but government also has a responsibility to both facilitate and enable these changes to take place.” In his speech, Mr Roos will provide the audience with a framework for working towards higher profitability in a high-cost environment.  Australia is the third highest cost environment to operate in as a manufacturer after Norway and Switzerland, while around 2008 Australia was in the middle of the pack with an operating cost level just below the US. Other key-note speakers include Dr Mark Hodge, CEO of the Defence Materials Technology Centre (DMTC) and Tony Quick, Chair of DMTC, who will present several case studies on manufacturing best practice with specific examples being drawn from the defence sector. DMTC’s Chief Technology Officer, Dr Matt Dargusch will follow this discussion up with a more detailed presentation on the DMTC model and the manufacturing benchmarking activities DMTC facilitates. AUSTECH is now open for registrations. Visitors are encouraged to register online (www.austechexpo.com.au) and avoid the last minute rush and queues during the event.

2012-12-20T22:03:16Z paul-fowler-named-new-president-of-amtil-1

Melbourne, 20 December 2012 – The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) has named Paul Fowler as its new President, effective 17 December. Together with CEO Shane Infanti and the AMTIL Board, Mr Fowler will lead the Institute’s continuing efforts to provide services around education and training, innovation and market access for Australia’s manufacturing businesses. He brings to the job an impressive track record of success, having served more than 8 years as Director at Australia’s leading supplier of accessories and workholding solutions Dimac Tooling in Mulgrave, Victoria. Mr Fowler has been a member of the AMTIL Board since 2008 and succeeds Pat Boland, co-founder and Director of CNC tool and cutter grinder manufacturer ANCA Pty Ltd.Mr Fowler will be responsible for strategically leading AMTIL’s operational initiatives in developing and expanding new and existing projects aiming to improve the performance and output of Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry. “It is important that we continue to provide services around education and training, innovation and market access,” Mr Fowler says. “Having the right skill set and the right technology builds capability which, when presented with opportunity, builds businesses."Established in 1999, the not-for-profit organisation is the voice of the advanced precision manufacturing sector, and the number of services on offer is continually expanding.Mr Fowler takes over the reins of the manufacturing association at a time when a growing number of companies in Australia get ready to get involved in major international projects and are gearing up to face competition from not only Asia, but also Europe and the US."The AMTIL Board will direct much of their focus to developing a more strategic and longer-term view towards the changing landscape within the precision manufacturing sector,” he comments and CEO Shane Infanti adds that "The companies that are going to grow in the future are companies that have the latest machine tools, cutting tools, software, etc, and know how to get the best out of it. It's all about technologies, methodologies and techniques.”"It has been a difficult few years in the industry and we have been guided well through this time by our outgoing President Pat Boland,” Mr Infanti says. “I would like to thank Pat for his efforts over the past two years and congratulate Paul on his appointment. I am certain that with Paul's strategic vision and focus on accountability, the Institute will go from strength to strength." Please visit AMTIL’s new website for more information www.amtil.com.au.

2012-12-20T22:00:58Z paul-fowler-named-new-president-of-amtil

Melbourne, 20 December 2012 – The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) has named Paul Fowler as its new President, effective 17 December. Together with CEO Shane Infanti and the AMTIL Board, Mr Fowler will lead the Institute’s continuing efforts to provide services around education and training, innovation and market access for Australia’s manufacturing businesses. He brings to the job an impressive track record of success, having served more than 8 years as Director at Australia’s leading supplier of accessories and workholding solutions Dimac Tooling in Mulgrave, Victoria. Mr Fowler has been a member of the AMTIL Board since 2008 and succeeds Pat Boland, co-founder and Director of CNC tool and cutter grinder manufacturer ANCA Pty Ltd. Mr Fowler will be responsible for strategically leading AMTIL’s operational initiatives in developing and expanding new and existing projects aiming to improve the performance and output of Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry. “It is important that we continue to provide services around education and training, innovation and market access,” Mr Fowler says. “Having the right skill set and the right technology builds capability which, when presented with opportunity, builds businesses." Established in 1999, the not-for-profit organisation is the voice of the advanced precision manufacturing sector, and the number of services on offer is continually expanding. Mr Fowler takes over the reins of the manufacturing association at a time when a growing number of companies in Australia get ready to get involved in major international projects and are gearing up to face competition from not only Asia, but also Europe and the US. "The AMTIL Board will direct much of their focus to developing a more strategic and longer-term view towards the changing landscape within the precision manufacturing sector,” he comments and CEO Shane Infanti adds that "The companies that are going to grow in the future are companies that have the latest machine tools, cutting tools, software, etc, and know how to get the best out of it. It's all about technologies, methodologies and techniques.” "It has been a difficult few years in the industry and we have been guided well through this time by our outgoing President Pat Boland,” Mr Infanti says. “I would like to thank Pat for his efforts over the past two years and congratulate Paul on his appointment. I am certain that with Paul's strategic vision and focus on accountability, the Institute will go from strength to strength." Please visit AMTIL’s new website for more information www.amtil.com.au.

2012-12-12T20:06:04Z austech-2013-prime-opportunity-to-spread-the-word-about-your-business

Melbourne, 12 December 2012 – From 7 to 10 May 2013, Australia’s production technology providers will once again be presenting machine tools, precision tools, sheetmetal technology, automation equipment and much more and demonstrate that manufacturing matters. Australian manufacturing is reshaping itself, albeit not without some pain, but it is important because of the strong connection between manufacturing and developing a knowledge-based economy. Austech organiser AMTIL (Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited) is confident that Austech 2013, Australia’s premier advanced precision manufacturing and machine tool exhibition, co-hosted with National Manufacturing Week (NMW), offers an ideal platform to support the growth and performance of Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry. “While we may no longer be competitive in mass production given the competition from low-wage economies, we can be competitive in development and design, smart ideas and high-tech products,” says Exhibition Director and AMTIL CEO Shane Infanti. “The last Austech exhibition in Sydney has shown that show attendees weren’t just window shopping but were looking for exactly those products and smart manufacturing techniques – and they were ready to purchase.” More than 50% of visitors to the 2012 Austech exhibition reported to have found a particular product or solution to a manufacturing problem, and 36% say that they have made a purchase as a result of visiting the show. Together with NMW, Austech attracts more than 450 exhibitors and over 10,000 visitors every year, 90% of which are decision makers with purchasing authority. “The statistics show that local manufacturers still invest in new processes and technologies to maintain competitiveness,” Mr Infanti comments. “They need to think long term or face an uphill struggle to succeed.” While nearly everyone came to see new products and get up to date with new technology, every third visitor regularly attends the show to network and make new business contacts. Last year, nearly 64% of tradeshow visitors report to have been successful in making new business contacts, which is vital in order to remain competitive today; Often, the difference between a successful and struggling business is by how diverse of a network they have. “Tradeshows like Austech and NMW offer prime opportunities for networking, and generating new contacts while spreading the word about your business,” says Exhibition Manager Kim Warren. “Tradeshows can create connections that can potentially further your endeavours down the road by leaps and bounds.” Thousands of industrial decision-makers have once again attended the last Austech exhibition in Sydney to get ideas and find ways to cut costs and get more work. More than 40% of visitors reported that they attend Australia’s premier machine tool and manufacturing exhibition regularly, while networking to connect with current and prospective customers was once again a prime reason to head into the exhibition centre for at least a day or two. But even with the optimism experienced at Austech 2012, investing can be a risky undertaking. The risks can be significantly reduced, though, if manufacturers carefully think projects through and surround themselves with suppliers they really trust and that want to establish long-term partnerships for providing additional help and guidance, Mr Infanti emphasises. “It is important to preserve and assist our manufacturers.” Austech 2013 will once again offer great networking opportunities for local and international manufacturers, in line with AMTIL’s motto: Connect – Inform – Grow.  www.austechexpo.com.au

2012-12-11T21:18:12Z amtil-secures-extended-enterprise-connect-funding

Melbourne, 10 December 2012 – The Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) has secured an extension to its contracts with Enterprise Connect (EC) to assist the Commonwealth Government with the delivery of business reviews and access to technology and knowledge facilitation. The extension will run through to the end of June 2015.The not-for-profit organisation, which represents the interests of manufacturing technology suppliers and users within the advanced and precision manufacturing sector, has been an Enterprise Connect Partner Organisation since 2010. “The extended funding will allow us to continue offering solid assistance to our members and the wider manufacturing community,” AMTIL Project Manager Greg Chalker says. “The funding provides an important opportunity for our manufacturing sector to access assistance to help maintain their competiveness.”Enterprise Connect is a Commonwealth Government initiative providing companies with connections and advice through a suite of targeted services and networks. These include business reviews and advice, grants to help businesses to engage researchers or workshops for industry to network and gain exposure to technology. EC has 12 centres around Australia and services small and medium-sized businesses in a number of sectors, including resources, manufacturing, defence, creative and tourism. “The Enterprise Connect initiative is an extremely useful and successful program,” Mr Chalker says. “I think it is successful for a number of reasons, but mainly because it is delivered by highly skilled and credentialed people with real-world experience direct from industry.”What started with one Business Adviser in metro Melbourne 18 months ago soon led to AMTIL taking on two National Technology and Knowledge Connect Facilitators located in Brisbane and Adelaide. “Our team of highly skilled Business Advisers and Facilitators can provide companies with a comprehensive business review, which is delivered on-site and free of charge,” Mr Chalker explains. “It is important to preserve and assist our manufacturers, and these services are invaluable to the individual businesses that access them. And, by strengthening such an important sector of our economy, they will be critical to the Australian economy.”The advice service begins with a comprehensive business review which then opens doors connecting the business to all kinds of expertise, ranging from technology support to advice directly tailored to the recommendations of the business review. The Facilitators assist with inter-firm collaboration, cluster development and supply chain relationships, and help local businesses to access Enterprise Connect services and other industry programs to increase entrepreneurial capacity.Moreover, AMTIL as an EC Partner Organisation can assist to imbed a researcher into a business to help with the realisation of commercially viable ideas and services. “Innovation needs to be more than just the generation of novel ideas or the dissemination of knowledge,” Mr Chalker says. “It is about making a change or doing something in a new way. Our Business Advisers and Facilitators can help small and medium businesses to commercialise their ideas, which in the long run will help Australia to maintain a competitive edge in manufacturing.”More info: www.amtil.com.au, 0398003666

2012-10-04T04:44:56Z austech-2013-connecting-local-manufacturers-smes 2012-05-17T01:58:21Z austech-2012-stimulates-new-business

At the close of Austech 2012 in Sydney, exhibitors, visitors and organisers look back at a very successful show, which has once again stimulated new business throughout the Australian machine tool and advanced manufacturing industry. “Austech came at the right time for industry to invest in technology and be more competitive,” AMTIL CEO and Exhibition Director Shane Infanti commented at the end of the show. “The important thing to consider is that the show is not only about the technology, but Austech provided a forum for visitors to learn about the latest methodology and techniques as well. It is a very useful learning exercise for them to come in and be able to see all the technology in one place and how the technology interacts. So we think that it is going to stimulate a lot of investment in technology and how to use it.” The four-day event in Sydney featured the latest machinery, solutions and services for every conceivable aspect of metalworking, showcased by more than 100 exhibitors and the special Innovate Showcase, which aims to promote the early adoption of technologies, methodologies and techniques. A major part of Innovate was the Opportunity Caf, which hosted a number of speakers who discussed relevant supply chain opportunities and major projects. "This Austech was a winner in every respect and has earned top marks from visitors and exhibitors alike. The show has further expanded its reputation as Australia’s premier advanced precision manufacturing and machine tool exhibition for the local metalworking industry," Mr Infanti said. "While the Australian economy continues to record moderate growth, the world-wide machine tool industry continues in full swing which means an even stronger market footing for our exhibitors.” The industry's positive mood was visible in the exhibition halls, where exhibitors were delighted with their order intakes and the quality of leads generated. “It was probably one of the busiest shows we have ever been at, it was absolutely overwhelming,” commented Colin Johnsen from LAG. "We show some of the best equipment available in Australia and meet potential and existing customers; the show is a real benefit for us!” Austech 2012 also demonstrated that industry has embraced the outstanding opportunities created by new and affordable technology, such as additive manufacturing. "Industry has the expertise required; now it’s time to get moving on implementation," says Exhibition Manager Kim Warren, and the eight participating companies in the Additive Manufacturing Pavilion had the products at hand to do so. “The focus on additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping at Austech was timely and appropriate,” says Anna Elliott, Marketing Manager at Memko. “In the rapidly evolving market, low volume and customised manufacturing will play an ever increasing role for Australian customers and it is important to have a platform for showcasing and promoting the diverse solutions available today.” Dermid McKinley from Tasman Machinery agrees and is very pleased with a very busy show: “Having the additive manufacturing sub-section at the Austech exhibition had been a big plus as it has produced a cluster effect of people visiting going from booth to booth.”www.austechexpo.com.au, www.amtil.com.au

2012-03-15T03:04:39Z austech-2012-additive-manufacturing-moves-beyond-prototyping

Melbourne, 15 March 2012 – From 8 to 11 May 2012, innovative companies will be showcasing “more than CNC machining” at Austech 2012 in Sydney. Additive Manufacturing (AM) is the watchword for eight companies presenting the latest technology for 3D printing and digital manufacturing solutions in a dedicated additive/digital manufacturing pavilion over the four days of the show. AM, also referred to as 3D printing, is now playing an ever increasing role in a range of industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical and defence because of the many benefits it offers compared to traditional subtractive technologies. As a consequence, new machines have been introduced on both the high and low ends of the cost spectrum over the past couple of years. These new developments have led to direct digital manufacturing (DDM) not only being used for rapid prototyping of new product designs, but increasingly for manufacturing end-user parts such as jigs, fixtures and other tools used in production and assembly processes. It is also being used to create custom components as well as medical and dental parts because DDM processes are faster, more affordable alternatives to manufacturing such parts via machining or injection moulding. “Additive manufacturing is an emerging trend, which is rapidly gaining acceptance within the manufacturing community,” comments Joel Brown from Solidtec Solutions. “Events like Austech help to educate the broader market ensuring the technology is propagated at a more rapid rate. The 3D CAD market acts as an enabling technology to accelerate adoption of technologies like additive manufacturing as companies which adopt 3D CAD for design are able to leverage 3D data in all aspects of their business.” One of the many reasons why manufacturers should follow the AM developments is speed: AM processes require no tooling and have a digital foundation. There are virtually no delays in moving from a robust digital design to the manufacturing process. There is direct, uninterrupted progression from concept to part. “Austech having a dedicated pavilion showcasing AM/3D Printing is an excellent medium for potential customers to see first-hand how companies are now actively saving time and money while accelerating the product to market timetables,” says Bruce Jackson from 3D Printing Systems Australia. “The costs for 3D printing systems are getting lower and it is now an affordable desktop addition to any product design department.” Tasman Machinery Managing Director Dermid McKinley thinks that the market is in a point of transition, where early adopting Australian manufacturers are beginning to understand and invest in AM technologies. “Where previously AM was very much aimed at the prototyping and design sectors, we now have customers running their machines on a 24/7 basis, looking for maximum capacity utilisation and expecting service and support levels of our traditional manufacturing customers. This is quite a turnaround from the previous view of AM technologies.” We all know we can never compete against the mass production of low cost economies, but Australia can certainly compete in manufacturing markets where complexity and sophistication of design is necessary. In almost all manufacturing environments, product designs are dictated by the constraints in the ability to manufacture parts. Product features are compromised. Multiple parts are used when a single part would suffice. AM eliminates many of those manufacturing constraints and makes mass customisation possible. Thanks to the technology’s freedom in terms of shape and design, it enables customised, optimum products to be created. By virtue of the geometric freedom provided, and the high elasticity of the material involved, moreover, it is possible to manufacture snap-fit connections, complicated form-locking elements, spring-force connections and geometries like leaf springs or helical springs. This means fewer parts have to be mounted or connected with tools. As a consequence, more and more businesses bring this technology in-house that previously was mainly provided through service bureaus. According to Camplex Managing Director Fred Carlstrom, machine prices for smaller machines start from around $10,000 which is quite affordable but you still pay up to a $1,000,000 for a large SLA (Stereo-Lithography) machine. “Metal sintering, laser or electron beam, is also generating a lot of interest because the technology unlocks all design constraints,” he adds. “With additive manufacturing you can pretty much design and manufacture any design without having to consider how it is going to manufactured or consider what tooling to use because there is no tooling required.” However, AM does not aim at replacing conventional machining processes. The technologies will co-exist and complement each other to optimum effect. As part of the Additive Manufacturing Pavilion, exhibitors will help interested visitors to find the right approach to define the correct application categories and to replace existing conventional technologies only where commercial and technical advantages are to be gained. “The focus on AM and rapid prototyping at Austech is timely and appropriate,” concludes Anna Elliott, Marketing Manager at Memko. “In the rapidly evolving market, low volume and customised manufacturing will play an ever increasing role for Australian customers and it is important to have a platform for showcasing and promoting the diverse solutions available today.” Participating companies: 3D Printing Systemswww.3Dprintingsystems.com.au 3D Systems Asia-Pacificwww.3dsystems.com.au Camplexwww.camplex.com.au Memkowww.memko.com.au Objective 3Dwww.objective3d.com.au Solidtec Solutionswww.solidtec.com.au Tasman Machinerywww.tasmanmachinery.com.au WYSIWYG 3Dwww.wysiwyg3d.com.au Contact: Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) Ms Kim Warren Ph: 03 9800 3666 Email: kwarren@amtil.com.au Web: www.amtil.com.au, www.austechexpo.com.au

2012-02-09T02:08:29Z austech-2012-an-opportunity-to-put-the-soaring-aussie-dollar-to-good-use

Melbourne, 09 February 2012 – With the dollar now reaching US$ 1.07, manufacturing businesses are continuing to worry about how much longer they can survive. Toyota’s announcement in January that it will shed 350 jobs at its plant in Altona has been blamed on the strength of the Australian dollar, which some commentators say is having a significant impact on the manufacturing industry’s capacity to remain globally competitive. Over the past two years the Australian dollar has appreciated 17% against the US dollar, 8% against the English pound, and a whopping 33% against the Euro. That means companies’ spending money goes a third further in Europe than it did two years ago. For small business, the high value of the Australian dollar means any imported machinery or office equipment is dirt cheap and should be taken advantage of. “The high dollar means it’s a good time to buy an imported machine and most of the high value, high precision, latest technology machines are imported,” comments Ken Richards from Interlease Co Pty Ltd, one of Australia’s largest business finance broking companies. “Therefore, there’s never been a better time to buy and whilst exports may be hurting, upgrading to the latest technology and automation may enable companies to reduce overheads and become more cost effective as well as offering greater precision. The greater precision cannot also be underestimated, as it’s not as easy for companies to import components that require a high level of precision.” Interlease is the major sponsor of this year’s Innovate Showcase taking place from 8 to 11 May during Austech 2012 at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. Organisations will display latest manufacturing technology and techniques, as well as typical manufactured components in their industry, providing Australian component manufacturers, precision engineering firms, toolmakers, advanced manufacturers or general engineering companies visiting the stand with a unique opportunity to discuss their manufacturing capabilities and to network. “Austech is a premier event for the manufacturing industry and in the current economic environment, making companies aware of the range of options available in the market to finance capital equipment is important,” Mr Richards explains Interlease’s involvement in the show. “Additionally, most incumbent banks only offer the products they prefer to offer and on the terms they want. As such, some companies may not consider implementing the latest technology as they incorrectly believe it is not cost effective or will be difficult to finance.” And more investment in intelligent manufacturing techniques and prioritising key technologies are crucial if Australia is to avoid losing its competitive edge in manufacturing, Innovate organiser AMTIL (Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited) points out, and innovation will play its part in ensuring Australia’s manufacturing productivity. “The key to the industry’s survival depends on innovation and ensuring businesses can adapt to the ups and downs of economic change,” says AMTIL CEO Shane Infanti. “While some businesses have had to downsize, many have managed to adjust to the economic conditions by outsourcing, innovation and quality improvement and introducing new technologies and skills.” Almost any manufacturing sector can embrace innovation, whether they’re high-tech or low or medium-tech. Sure, Autralia’s manufacturers and farmers are in a much more competitive global environment than the big resource companies, and the high currency is making it a lot harder for them. While the exchange rate is favourable for imports and investments in new technology, the cheap imports also mean local manufacturers are not only battling on the export but also on the domestic front. Some experts predict that the Aussie dollar will be back in the mid-US$0.90 by the end of the year, so Australia’s exports will be more competitive and will hopefully help our manufacturers currently battling for survival. “Until that happens,” Mr Infanti says, “take advantage of the currency while you can and invest in new technology and machinery. Austech 2012 comes at the right time, as it offers the unique opportunity to source the latest in production technology available today.”

2011-12-12T03:27:33Z austech-2012-a-must-for-innovative-manufacturers

Melbourne, 12 December 2011 – From 8 to 11 May 2011, national and international manufacturers of production technology will be presenting machine tools, precision tools, sheetmetal technology, automation equipment and much more at AUSTECH 2012 in Sydney. The entire spectrum of modern metalworking technology will be covered at the Sydney Showground and since many of the products are being showcased for the first time, the event, co-hosted with National Manufacturing Week (NMW), attracts a combined total of over 10,000 visitors every year.“Being present at AUSTECH is an absolute must for all manufacturers of production technology aiming to serve customers on the Australian market and to demonstrate their competence, efficiency and capacity to them,” says AMTIL Event Manager and Austech organiser Kim Warren. “The same applies to users. They require efficient manufacturing technology, comprehensive engineering skills and good service in order to be competitive.”Thousands of industrial decision-makers regularly attend AUSTECH and National Manufacturing Week to get ideas and find ways to cut costs and get more work. More than 94% of visitors have buying influence and come to see new technology demonstrated. 86% of previous attendees say they came to see new products, while 19% were in search of a particular new product.One in three visitors is looking for a manufacturing solution or a solution to a problem, and the fact that 70% report to have gone home successfully speaks for itself. Leading-edge manufacturing and technology solutions are at the core of Australia’s premier advanced precision manufacturing and machine tool exhibition, and it offers an ideal platform to connect with both current and prospective customers.Key findings of the most recent visitor survey in summary:• 93% were satisfied with exhibit visits,• 70% were successful in finding specific products or solving manufacturing problems,• 77% made new business contacts and• 49% made a purchase as a result of visiting the show.More information:

2011-10-17T06:17:10Z innovation-once-again-focal-point-of-austech-2012

Following the success of innovateAustralia 2011, Austech 2012 in Sydney is once again set to host a special stand promoting innovation and opportunities for Australia’s advanced manufacturers. Organisations will display typical manufactured components in their industry, providing Australian component manufacturers, precision engineering firms, toolmakers, advanced manufacturers or general engineering companies visiting the stand with a unique opportunity to discuss their manufacturing capabilities and to network. “At innovateAustralia 2011 Thales was able to showcase its supply base, but it was a great opportunity to also discuss our supplier strategy in the broadcast workshop forum,” comments Alistair Beaton, Industry Engagement Director, Thales Australia. “This interactive approach was very effective in getting key messages out there about the capabilities we are looking for in our Global Supply Chain, not just in Australia." More investment in intelligent manufacturing techniques and prioritising key technologies are crucial if Australia is to avoid losing its competitive edge in manufacturing, innovateAustralia organiser AMTIL (Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited) points out, and innovation will play its part in ensuring Australia’s manufacturing productivity. “Innovation is more than just the generation of novel ideas or the dissemination of knowledge,” says AMTIL CEO Shane Infanti. “It is about making a change or doing something in a new way. Innovation is a key driver of our economy and innovateAustralia 2012 will once again provide a forum for visitors to connect with government and industry and find out about some of the major projects that Australia is currently involved in. What we want to do is get more companies to a level of technical capability that allows them to access the supply chains of these projects.” According to Mr Infanti, Australia’s advanced manufacturing sector is moving into new cutting-edge industries, including aerospace and defence, medical, as well as nanotechnology and renewable technologies. For instance, there are opportunities to transition our economy to be cleaner and more resource efficient through eco-innovation. The emergence of new technologies such as nanotechnology has the ability to underpin an increasing number of breakthrough innovations in products, services, and processes. These technologies have the potential to transform the economy and achieve long term productivity enhancements to assist Australia face the impact of an ageing population, climate change and other pressures. Sustainably manufactured products are increasingly important to consumers, and manufacturers who respond effectively to environmental challenges will have the advantage of being at the forefront of this new trend. “Innovation also provides opportunities for new processing technologies and more competitive manufacture of existing and new products,” Mr Infanti adds. The implementation of new ideas, however, he points out, was just as crucial as the ideas themselves. innovateAustralia's Opportunity Cafe area will once again provide a great forum for discussions and was a huge success in 2011. The Cafe provides an area for business owners and developers to interact directly with buyer decision makers and will feature a timetable for visitors to sit down and listen to industry leaders discuss relevant supply chain and major project topics in a relaxed informal caf setting. The previous Opportunity Cafe featured discussions with AMTIL CEO Shane Infanti, the Victorian Government representative David Latina for the Department of Business and Innovation, representatives from HydroGen, Invetech, GippsAero, Thales, Enterprise Connect, FAPM, the Industry Capability Network (ICN) or the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), just to mention a few. "This was our first real involvement in this event and found it to be a very worthwhile exercise,” Mr Beaton says. “Our purchasing people were really showing how much our suppliers support our efforts in key products such as Bushmaster and Hawkei, and how the capability of Australian SMEs and partnering was key to our success.” The innovateAustralia showcase will be located within Australia’s premier advanced precision manufacturing and machine tool exhibition held at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, from 8 to 11 May 2012. Contact: Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) Mr Greg ChalkerPR: com4tech Ph: 03 9800 3666 Email: gchalker@amtil.com.au Web: www.amtil.com.au, www.austechexpo.com.au

2011-10-17T05:38:58Z critical-skills-investment-fund-csif-amtil-wins-grant-to-help-develop-skills-1

Melbourne-based Australian Manufacturing Institute Limited (AMTIL) has won a $2.5 million grant through the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) to develop critical skills and up-skill existing workers to meet demand in the advanced manufacturing sector. Under the banner “Enabling critical industries – supply chain skills, training”, more than 300 new and existing workers around the country will have the chance to upgrade their skills and gain higher level qualifications across a range of manufacturing companies, supplying critical products, parts and components to key industry sectors. AMTIL won the grant after the Federal Government announced to pump $28 million into new training programs in a bid to reduce the critical skills shortages facing resource, construction, infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. “The project will train 313 workers in 27 companies from Certificate III to Diploma relating to Advanced Manufacturing,” explains AMTIL’s Project Coordinator David Creighton. “Involving our Advanced Manufacturing Capability Alliance including RMIT University, Swinburne University, Vative and Leadership Management Australia, we ensure flexible training delivery to workers.” The project aims to up-skill shopfloor staff for qualified trades and management jobs and to provide training for existing workers and people willing to enter the workforce. “To remain competitive, industry needs to maintain its advantage through continuously developing highly skilled workers with effective and strategic nationally accredited qualifications,” says Project Manager Greg Chalker. "Industry is demanding highly skilled workers and this program will support employers to improve the capability of their workforce allowing them a good chance of achieving sustainable growth in their business." AMTIL CEO Shane Infanti adds it was important that industry and employers took advantage of this project to address their skills in demand. “This funding agreement reiterates the Government’s confidence in our organisation to help deliver the skill level our industry needs in order to compete with the best in the world,” he says. “We have members that see the up-skilling of their staff as an investment in their business and we are very pleased to assist those members in the funding of specific training relevant to their needs.” Minister for Skills and Jobs, Senator Chris Evans, last month announced successful projects under the $200 million Critical Skills Investment Fund (CSIF). The goal of the Fund is to help increase the supply of skilled labour for enterprises in critical industry sectors. To achieve this, the Fund supports many different projects such as AMTIL’s, that train and place job seekers into available positions, and that up-skill existing workers to meet new demands. The successful projects under Funding Round 1 are co-funded by industry contributions and together are worth more than $41 million.Contact: Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) Mr David Creighton Ph: 03 9800 3666 Email: dcreighton@amtil.com.au Web: www.amtil.com.au

2011-10-13T01:21:55Z austech-2012-70-booked-out-organisers-confident

Melbourne, 12 October 2011 – From 8 to 11 May 2012, manufacturers and distributors of production technology will be showcasing the entire spectrum of modern metalworking technology at Austech 2012 in Sydney, and all the signs are that Australia’s leading trade show for this sector comes at the right time. With 70% of exhibition space already booked out, organiser AMTIL (Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited) is confident that improving economic conditions will unleash pent-up demand as hitherto postponed purchase decisions resurge to provide commercial opportunities. “Refocus on increased productivity and capacity requirements in key end-use markets in the post recession period will push demand for innovative machinery and technology, as manufacturers begin to channel investments for global competitiveness,” says AMTIL CEO Shane Infanti. The diversity of application areas for machine tools ranging from aerospace, automobiles, process industries, wind power generation to mining, would help ensure a further recovery. Many exhibitors agree. George Buhagiar, Managing Director Alfex CNC Australia, says that with less uncertainty, particularly in the US and Europe, companies could start committing to more investment in the industry. And there are signs for increased confidence: EMO Hannover has recently shown that the world-wide machine tool industry and its customer sectors worldwide are currently in a healthy condition, and the latest NAB business survey suggests there are also strong reasons for Australians to be confident. While overall conditions remained fairly soft in September, the survey shows a lift in business confidence, particularly in manufacturing, due to the sharp fall in the Australian dollar and speculation of a rate cut or two. “We believe that the manufacturing and processing industry is not being influenced from negative forecasts and issues such as the carbon tax debate or the US economy,” comments DMG/Mori Seiki Australia President Stefan Weiwadel. “We are determined to pursue and reach our revenue goals for 2012 and gain further market share in Australian and New Zealand.” Mr Weiwadel considers Austech to be an ideal platform to address its existing customer base and generate new leads and customers. Since many of the products displayed at Austech are being presented to the public for the first time, the event attracts experts from the entire Australian manufacturing scene. “Austech is an event where industry comes to us in an environment where customers become stimulated and exposed to new ideas that can be adopted in their operations,” adds Mr Buhagiar. “It’s also a great place to network.” Juergen Blessing, Sales Manager Overseas for Prima Power, agrees. “In our opinion Austech is the best way to present our range of 2D/3D lasers, our range of servo electric turrets, bending centres as well as our new range of servo-electric and hydraulic press brakes to our Australian customers.” Early this year, Prima Industrie and Finn-Power merged into Prima Power, the new machinery division of Prima Industrie Group. “We expect to increase our visibility in the market, find new demand and increase the awareness of one of the widest ranges of sheetmetal working machinery being offered in Australia/New Zealand,” he adds. For regular exhibitor Hare & Forbes, Austech is the best platform to present new and innovative products to the decision makers within the industry. “The exhibition lets us showcase the capabilities of our company and our suppliers and builds brand awareness,” says Hare & Forbe’s Rick Foster. “Being present at Austech is an absolute must for all manufacturers of production technology aiming to serve customers on the Australian market and to demonstrate their competence, efficiency and capacity to them,” comments AMTIL Event Manager and Austech organiser Kim Warren. “The same applies to users. They require efficient manufacturing technology, comprehensive engineering skills and good service in order to be competitive.” Sustainability, efficiency, multitasking, complete machining, automation and process integration will be amongst the show’s overarching themes. To complement the exhibition, the innovateAustralia showcase, which was a huge success in Melbourne this year, will be back in Sydney. Again it will connect visitors with organisations and industry leaders significant to them, inform them of opportunities that exist and what challenges are faced by those successful in the supply chain. Please visit our dedicated website www.austechexpo.com.au, which provides exhibitors and visitors with an online forum tailored to their needs, including easy online registration and stand booking information, a list of exhibitors, as well as the latest related news and floor plans. More info: www.machiningaustralia.com.au www.amtil.com.au

2011-08-11T04:52:48Z austech-2012-encouraging-investment-in-new-technology-3

Austech 2012, Australia’s premier advanced precision manufacturing and machine tool exhibition, is now open for bookings. Companies are invited to secure their stand for next year’s show, which will once again line up with National Manufacturing Week (NMW) at the Sydney Showground from 8 to 11 May 2012, to gain exposure and recognition within the industry. Austech is the absolute leading trade show for the sector, displaying an unequalled width and depth of products and services throughout all production areas in Australia, from machine tools to precision tools, automation components to customised systems and additive manufacturing techniques. While the machine tool industry remains cautious when it comes to capacity upsizing –not least in view of the resurgent uncertainty generated by current financing problems in Europe and the U.S. – for the year's second half and the current financial year, AMTIL CEO and exhibition Director Shane Infanti expects demand to increase and to be further boosted by Austech 2012. However, he also encourages government to implement measures to create incentives for investment in new technology. “Encouraging investment in new technology is essential if Australia is to keep pace with international competition,” he says. “We need a major incentive program developed, and quickly. We have reached a critical time and we need to implement some measures now.” “Austech plays its part in showcasing the latest technology and provides a stimulus for investment. A government program around accelerated depreciation or another incentive to invest in capital could provide the final key.” While Australia continues to be globally competitive in the design and manufacturing of products, Mr Infanti continues to say that “we are slowly falling below par in our investment in technology. The GFC, interest rates, access to finance, order uncertainty and the carbon tax have all played a role in creating an environment where confidence and willingness to invest is being eroded.” The government has an important role to play in reversing this trend, and AMTIL also runs several initiatives and projects aiming to improve the performance and output of Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry by helping companies to fully integrate new technology or processes into the entirety of their business operations. Austech forms a central part of these initiatives and is a ‘must-attend’ event for every manufacturer looking for efficient technology to be competitive on the global market. Please visit our dedicated website www.austechexpo.com.au, which provides exhibitors and visitors with an online forum tailored to their needs, including easy online registration and stand booking information, a list of exhibitors, as well as the latest related news and floor plans. Contact: Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) Ms Kim Warren Ph: 03 9800 3666 Email: kwarren@amtil.com.au Web: www.austechexpo.com.au, www.amtil.com.auMore manufacturing news

2011-05-30T01:03:37Z austech-2011-surpasses-expectations

Melbourne, 27 May 2011 – Australia’s foremost advanced manufacturing event, Austech 2011, ended with one of the best outcomes since its inception in 2000. Austech and National Manufacturing Week (NMW) attracted a total of around 12,000 visitors. This represents growth of 10 to 15% over the comparable 2009 event. "Attendance was up from every state, thus bringing tangible benefit to exhibitors in every section of the event,” says Austech exhibition manager Kim Warren, Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL). One in every four visitors was a member of top management. "This year's show in Melbourne has given industry a real boost, powering it up to drive the economic recovery," Ms Warren comments. "Austech together with NMW and Ausplas has generated a momentum for industry, with more than 600 exhibitors from Australia and overseas showcasing new and innovative technology.” Energy and automation topics were at the very heart of visitor interest. Major emphasis was placed on energy efficiency, productivity and ways to make things smarter. Exhibitors were very pleased with the show, many of them having sold CNC machines, tools and accessories over the four days of the show. The innovateAustralia showcase together with the Victorian Government opportunity cafe was also a crowd puller, helping to connect visitors to organisations representative of and significant to their industry. It informed visitors of possible business opportunities and assist to seed the growth of Australian advanced precision manufacturers. innovateAustralia is an initiative of AMTIL and has received funding support through AusIndustry’s Industry Cooperative Innovation Program. Austech organiser AMTIL runs several initiatives and projects aiming to improve the performance and output of Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry by helping companies to fully integrate new technology or processes into the entirety of their business operations. Austech 2011 once again formed a central part of these initiatives and is a ‘must-attend’ event for every manufacturer looking for efficient technology to be competitive on the global market. Moreover, with its new online presence (www.austechexpo.com.au) Austech now provides exhibitors and visitors with an online forum tailored to their needs, including easy online registration and stand booking information, a list of exhibitors, as well as the latest related news, pictures, videos and floor plans. [ENDS] Contact: Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL) Ms Kim Warren Ph: 03 9800 3666 Email: kwarren@amtil.com.au Web: www.austechexpo.com.au, www.amtil.com.au