MEDIA ALERT AND RELEASE - National Workforce Plan launched to power Australia's manufacturing future
Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance
Australia's manufacturing sector has taken a significant step forward today with the launch of a national workforce plan designed to lead innovation, sustainability and global competitiveness.
On Tuesday 5 August, the 2025 Workforce Plan – Pathways to Transformation, was released by the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance and formally launched by Minister for Skills and Training, The Hon. Andrew Giles MP.
The Plan draws on extensive research and sector analysis – along with targeted interviews, focus groups and national surveys – to identify five priorities that will strengthen the sector, modernise training, close skills gaps and attract the next generation of manufacturing talent.
“In 2025, manufacturing will contribute more than $100 billion to the Australian economy and employ nearly one million workers across a diverse range of industries,” says Sharon Robertson, CEO of Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance.
“Australia's manufacturing sector is evolving rapidly. This plan – along with the united efforts of Government, Industry, Unions and Training Providers ensures the workforce keeps pace with change and has the skills to drive future growth.”
The 2025 Workforce Plan aligns with national goals, including the Future Made in Australia agenda, the net zero emissions target, and the push to strengthen sovereign capability across critical industries such as defence, clean energy and food production.
It identifies the need to invest in apprenticeships and develop skills and training programs that reflect the needs of industry.
At the heart of the Plan are five key pillars: Clean Manufacturing, Circular Economy, Advanced Technology, Sovereign Capability and the development of a Strong and Responsive Skills System.
“The strength of the Plan is how these pillars can both standalone, and interconnect,” explains Sharon Robertson.
“By taking a ‘big picture’ view, one pillar can leverage another, or provide an insight into why another pillar is facing challenges. Taking this approach will strengthen manufacturing in Australia and lead towards a more comprehensive and resilient industry.”
“The Plan recognises the need for all of us, including governments, employers and unions, to continue to work closely together to ensure the manufacturing industry is best placed to not only meet the challenges we face but also make the most of the opportunities,” Minister Giles said.
“We know that the manufacturing industry is a great place for apprentices and students to learn new skills, gain a qualification and build a long-term career. This Plan will help ensure the industry can grow and adapt to both short- and long-term needs, and continue to be a critical part of Australia’s economy.”
The 2025 Workforce Plan provides the blueprint to be bold, innovative and future-focused.
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About 2025 Workforce Plan – Key Pillars
- Clean manufacturing. Preparing the workforce for sustainable production practices and advancing Australia's net zero ambition through the adoption of clean manufacturing solutions.
- Circular Economy. Building skills to support resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable manufacturing processes.
- Advanced Technology. Maintaining the industry’s competitive edge through a tech-savvy workforce.
- Sovereign Capability. Fostering a resilient and skilled workforce to build supply chain resilience and strengthen sovereign manufacturing capability.
- A Strong and Responsive Skills System. This preserves and enhances the benefits of the apprenticeship model, and provides the skills required to build a resilient, adaptable and contemporary workforce.
About Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance
The Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (Manufacturing Alliance) plays a key role in supporting the manufacturing industry by ensuring that it has the skilled workforce required to remain globally competitive. As the Jobs and Skills Council for the manufacturing sector, it works collaboratively with government bodies, unions, employers and training providers to find solutions to the skills and workforce challenges industry faces.
Further quotes attributable to Sharon Robertson, Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance CEO
"Manufacturing employers have told us they struggle to find the skilled workers they need to grow. At the same time, young Australians looking to start their careers don't always see the incredible opportunities manufacturing can offer. This plan helps close that gap.
"The Workforce Plan is not solely about addressing current skill gaps; it is about building the capabilities required for the future. Workforce shortages are widespread, and demand for digital and technical expertise continues to grow at a rapid pace.
"Whether it's creating smart medical devices or supporting sovereign defence capabilities, we need a workforce with the right skills, at the right time, in the right places.
"I want to thank the unions, employers, educators and government representatives who came together to deliver this plan.
"Their insights and collaboration have been critical in shaping a practical response to the challenges facing our sector, and the result is a plan grounded in real-world experience and driven by a shared ambition to build a stronger, smarter manufacturing future."
Media contact: Darren Rodrigo – 0414 783 405
Media Alert
5 August 2025
National Workforce Plan launched to power Australia's manufacturing future
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WHAT |
The Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, will officially launch the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (MISA) 2025 Workforce Plan – Pathways to Transformation, designed to lead innovation, sustainability and global competitiveness.
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WHO |
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WHEN |
12:15 - 12:30pm - Tour of The Factory of the Future 12:30 – 1:30pm – Launch Event Tuesday 5 August, 2025
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WHERE |
The Advanced Manufacturing and Design Centre (AMDC) is situated at the corner of Burwood Road and William Street on the Swinburne University Hawthorn campus.
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MEDIA CONTACT |
Media: Darren Rodrigo 0414 783 405
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Contact details:
Media contact: Darren Rodrigo – 0414 783 405 or [email protected]