Powering Australia: Building Connections, Commercialisation and Capability for Renewables Page 38
Women in Welding: Clarisse Orchard, Callidus Welding Solutions Page 50
2024 National Manufacturing Summit The Summit was a huge success. It saw a diverse group of industry stakeholders assemble in Brisbane on 31 July and 1 August 2024. It focused on the theme of Pathways to Success… Making the Renewable Energy Revolution a Reality.
Weld Australia’s 2024 Member Survey Results Weld Australia’s annual Member Survey helps us better understand both the state of the industry, and how we can better serve member needs. Discover the results of this year’s survey.
Powering Australia The Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre program was announced as part of the Federal Government’s Australian Made Battery Plan to create more jobs and greater wealth for the nation by manufacturing batteries onshore.
Sun, Wind, Minerals and Success: South Australia’s State Prosperity Project South Australia is leading the clean energy transition. The Upper Spencer Gulf has a unique convergence of renewable resources – sun and wind – close to significant mineral resources.
Tactic: Building Connectivity Tactic is an independent, member-driven organisation that connects local South Australian supplier capability with major project proponents—supporting the success of projects through supply chain integrity.
The Centre for Future Work: Making Australia’s Renewable Energy Revolution Happen As a research centre focusing on the economic issues facing working people, the Centre for Future Work has long advocated for the importance of manufacturing for Australia’s economy.
Callidus
REGULAR COLUMNS
Cover: Jayben Group: Innovating Australian Manufacturing with Precision and Passion. Story on page
WELD AUSTRALIA CONTACTS
National Office PO Box 197
Macquarie Park BC NSW 1670 1800 189 900 office@weldaustralia.com.au weldaustralia.com.au
David Choudry, Membership Manager 0417 878 104 d.choudry@weldaustralia.com.au
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATION
Deniz Yalniz, Executive General Manager, Technical Services 0487 487 170 d.yalniz@weldaustralia.com.au
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form without the written permission of Weld Australia. Weld Australia and its agents are not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by contributors in this publication, which are not necessarily those of Weld Australia. Publication of any advertisement does not constitute endorsement by Weld Australia of any product, nor warrant its suitability.
INTRODUCING WELD AUSTRALIA’S WOMEN IN WELDING PROGRAM
Australia is facing a critical shortage of skilled welders. To combat this shortage, it is essential that women’s workforce participation is increased.
Research by Chief Executive Women demonstrates that increasing women’s participation in the paid workforce would help address Australia’s current skills shortage, and have long-lasting impact on productivity in Australia. Halving the workforce participation gap between men and women would represent an additional 500,000 full-time skilled workers with post school qualifications.
Engaging women in paid work at the same rate as men could unlock an additional one million full-time skilled workers in Australia. The National Skills Commission estimates the need for 1.2 million additional workers across the economy by 2026.
Gender equity and diversity in industries like construction and manufacturing is a persistent problem
that exacerbates skills shortages, reduces economic productivity, and constrains innovation.
Women account for less than one per cent of Australia’s overall welding and fabrication sector. This is a staggering statistic. To put this into perspective, on average, women comprise 48 per cent of Australia’s entire workforce.
Encouraging the participation of women in male-oriented industries such as construction, manufacturing and welding is long overdue in ending the cycle of employment disparity, gender pay gap, and imrpoving representation of women in management positions.
The Skilled Worker Shortage
Unless action is taken now, Australia will be 70,000 welders short by 2030.
This urgent issue is not unique to Australia; the US$5.5 billion US fabrication industry will face a shortage of 500,000 welders by 2030. By 2050, Japan’s demographic downturn will result in a 50 per cent loss in their welding workforce; Japan will need around 250,000 welders. In the United Kingdom, BAE is having trouble recruiting enough welders in Glasgow to keep the Type 26 Frigate project on track.
This global shortfall of welders is driving most developed nations to implement extraordinary measures to resolve it – Australia must follow suit.
Statistics from the ABS demonstrate that the number of tradespeople identifying as welders fell from 83,400 in 2012, to 75,800 in 2014, and again to 69,600 in 2019. Weld Australia estimates that the total is now less than 60,000. It is also important to note these individuals ‘identify’ as welders – they are not necessarily qualified welders. Weld Australia suggests that less than half of these 60,000 individuals have completed an apprenticeship, or are otherwise not suitably qualified.
Australia’s transition to renewables will necessitate the manufacture of thousands of wind towers and transmission towers, solar panel structures, hydrogen plants and battery processing plants, as well as thousands of kilometres of transmission lines. All this will require a highly skilled workforce, including thousands of qualified welders. At the moment, Australia does not have the welders to deliver the
Madeleine du Toit
nation’s critical energy, defence, rail and infrastructure projects.
Increasing Diversity in the Workplace
Weld Australia has long been an active advocate for the participation of women in the workforce, particularly in male-oriented industries like welding. We need a proactive, targeted approach that engages and recruits women into the trades, new and innovative trade training programs designed specifically for women, and working conditions that help retain women.
Weld Australia is working on a structured Women in Welding program. This program represents a significant step forward in our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment within the welding industry.
Our vision is to establish a dedicated body, akin to our Welding Safety Council, but exclusively focused on women in welding. This body will be chaired by a woman and will consist entirely of women. The primary goal is to leverage existing research on the contributions and challenges faced by women in the welding profession.
The first priority on our agenda is addressing some of the practical barriers that inhibit women from thriving in welding workplaces. For example, the condition of toilets and showers in fabrication shops across the country is notoriously poor, and this must change. To this end, we are developing a certification program: Certified Female Friendly (CFF). This certification will assess and promote workplaces that meet essential criteria for supporting women, including clean and accessible amenities, appropriate language policies, and overall working conditions.
It’s important to note that while women in office roles often have access to flexible work practices and better facilities, the same cannot always be said for those working on the shop floor. Our CFF certification will aim to bridge this gap, ensuring that all women, regardless of their role, have access to a safe and supportive work environment.
In addition to the certification, we will create a comprehensive database and website to promote and recognise female-friendly workplaces. Through these efforts, we hope to drive meaningful change in the industry and pave the way for more women to pursue and succeed in welding careers.
If you would like to get involved in Weld Australia’s Women in Welding program please contact: office@weldaustralia.com.au
LASTING CONNECTIONS
Böhler Welding offers a globally unique and complete product portfolio of welding consumables; these products are from our own production facilities. Our extensive range of approximately 2,000 products is continuously adapted to the current specifications of the industries and market requirements, considering the highest quality standards.
2024 MEMBER SURVEY REVEALS
Australia’s Welding Industry Is Grappling With Work Shortages And Rising Costs
Weld Australia has released the results of its 2024 Member Survey.
The findings demonstrate that Australia’s welding and fabrication industry is facing chronic work shortages, along with cost challenges amid rising prices of energy, materials and labour. The Federal and state governments must commit to building sovereign manufacturing capability by legislating local content policy.
This will create a capacity mechanism that generates a clear, long-term signal for investment in the necessary technology, workforce, and equipment. With long-term demand a reality, local manufacturers will have the confidence to improve production efficiencies and global competitiveness.
Weld Australia’s 2024 Member Survey has revealed the key challenges facing Australian welding businesses. Distributed annually, the survey was completed by members
across the country, which includes major players in the defence, power generation, mining, rail and infrastructure sectors.
The results show that half of welding workshops are currently operating at 80% capacity or below. Almost 7 in 10 Weld Australia members say they have capacity for additional work or that their pipeline is drying up—overwhelmingly citing a lack of work as the reason why (75%). When asked what their main concern is right now, 21% of business owners stated that a lack of work is what keeps them awake at night.
It’s no secret that Australian manufacturing has been suffering a slow decline for decades. Today, manufacturing is responsible for just 5% of our GDP and only 5.4% of total employment, despite its vital role in the Australian economy. For comparison, Canada – a similar economy to ours – has 1.7 million manufacturing workers where Australia has 47,500.
While this demise can be partially attributed to market forces, offshoring of manufacturing work that could be handled by the local industry
is to blame. However, recent government initiatives present a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reinvigorate Australia’s manufacturing industry while supporting the national transition to a net zero economy.
The renewable energy revolution is Australia’s chance to undo some of the damage done over the past 60 years – both to the environment and to the Australian manufacturing industry.
Australia is at a pivotal moment in its energy transformation journey. With the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing emissions by 43% by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050, the transition to renewable energy is not just a goal— it’s an urgent necessity. The scale of this transformation is unprecedented, demanding an increase in renewable energy generation from 64GW to over 218GW by 2050.
This shift presents both immense opportunities and significant challenges for the Australian manufacturing sector, particularly in the production of wind towers and transmission infrastructure. The domestic demand for wind towers
Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia)
over coming decades is huge. Based on AEMO scenarios, the market could range from $20 billion anywhere up to $80 billion.
To turn this vision into reality, a focused and actionable plan is essential. Specific, enforceable local content requirements must be implemented to ensure that Australia’s renewable energy projects are driven by domestic manufacturing. These local content mechanisms must be attached to government procurement, particularly initiatives like the Capacity Investment Scheme and the Future Made in Australia program.
Weld Australia strongly recommends that a significantly favourable merit weighting be given to tenderers who guarantee local content of Australian fabricated steel as follows:
• Onshore Wind Towers >50%
• Offshore Wind Towers >40%
• Solar Farms > 60%
• Monopole Transmission Towers > 60%
• Lattice Transmission Towers > 60%
The contracts awarded must then be drafted with sufficient power to
be readily enforceable by the Federal and state governments.
Rising Costs
Weld Australia’s 2024 Member Survey also revealed that inflation is a key concern for the welding industry. When it comes to the factors most likely to inhibit business growth over the next 12 months, 64% of business owners cited the rising cost of energy, 61% cited the rising cost of materials, and 50% cited rising labour costs.
Members rated themselves as highlyproductive: two-thirds of businesses indicated that the productivity of their welding staff as good or excellent.
However, out of the total labour hours per shift, 25% of survey respondents indicated that they spend less than two hours of their shift doing actual welding (with the arc switched on); 58% spend less than four hours. This is compared with five hours per welder per day in countries like the United States and Germany (that have similar Workplace Health and Safety Standards).
The factors most likely to impact on the productivity of welding staff are time spent on tasks like materials
handling (42%) and joint preparation and fit up (21%).
A clear pathway to productivity is through the use of technology. When companies are focused on improving their processes, they naturally innovate—implementing the latest technologies in a bid to streamline operations. However, Australian companies generally lag behind their global competitors in digital adoption and unfortunately the welding sector is no exception. Uptake of advanced welding technology remains relatively slow, and this lack of tech adoption is impeding our ability to navigate the current challenges facing the industry.
The survey revealed that most businesses have not planned any investment in technology for the coming 12 months. Tech investment has not risen substantially since 2023, and in some areas has actually dropped. The types of technology that the welding industry has planned, in progress or completed include: Industry 4.0 (42%); robots (37.5%); and cobots (25% - down from 35% in 2023).
By leveraging the benefits of advanced technology and
“
Half of welding workshops are currently operating at 80% capacity or below. Almost 7 in 10 Weld Australia members say they have capacity for additional work or that their pipeline is drying up. When asked what their main concern is right now, 21% of business owners stated that a lack of work is what keeps them awake at night.”
automation, businesses can increase their productivity and reduce labour costs, while improving the quality of their welds. Given that the major barriers to productivity are materials handling and a lack of skilled staff, there is a significant opportunity for welding businesses to harness the capabilities of advanced welding technologies to overcome these issues.
Business owners are caught in a difficult position, juggling rising costs and a lack of work with the imperative to innovate and remain competitive. The reality is that without a guaranteed supply of work, particularly from government-backed projects, many welding businesses will find it difficult—if not impossible— to justify the necessary investments in advanced technologies.
A Focus on Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
The survey results highlight sustainability as a continued area of focus for the welding industry. A vast majority of Weld Australia members (69%) support the Federal Government’s Climate Change Bill. However, almost as many respondents (66%) say they would like to see Australian governments do more to help industry transition to net zero by the target date.
Welding businesses are doing what they can on their own to ramp up investment into sustainability initiatives. Most have already planned, started or completed the implementation of LED and sensor lighting (74%), waste reduction programs (76%), recycling programs (70%), digital transformation (64%), water use reduction (65%), and the installation of solar panels (53%).
While these numbers represent an enormous increase from 2022, it’s worth noting that all have fallen slightly since last year’s survey— which may indicate a shift in focus to the more pressing issue of rising operating costs. And with over half of welding businesses yet to initiate a net carbon plan, the need for Federal and state government support
for industry decarbonisation— coupled with a long-term pipeline of work secured via local content requirements—is evident.
Similarly, in the area of corporate responsibility, all figures are down slightly from 2023—potentially due to a change in priorities amid cost challenges. But encouragingly, many welding businesses are still investing in a range of corporate responsibility initiatives including:
• Employee wellbeing programs (76%)
• Opportunities for women (76%)
• Mental health and fitness programs (75%)
• Opportunities for apprentices and trainees (71%)
• Diversity and inclusion initiatives (69%)
• Modern Slavery Act initiatives (59%)
• Implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan (48%)
The Outlook for Australia’s Welding Industry
Despite the lack of work and cost challenges, sentiment across the welding industry remains fairly positive. 68% of respondents rated the prospects of their business as strong or very strong. However, this is a significant decline from 88% in
last year’s survey. And while 83% are confident that their business will be in operation in 12 months’ time, this is also down from 90% in 2023.
Despite recent government investment in infrastructure projects and a rising preference for locally manufactured goods, it’s evident that these efforts alone are insufficient.
The implementation of specific, enforceable local content requirements is crucial.
For business owners and senior managers, these mandates provide the long-term certainty needed to confidently invest in initiatives like advanced technologies, workforce skills, sustainability and corporate responsibility. Such investments are vital to boosting productivity and mitigating the escalating costs of energy, materials, and labour.
Without these guarantees, the industry risks stagnation, unable to keep pace with global competitors or capitalise on emerging opportunities like those in Australia’s renewable energy revolution.
Geoff Crittenden CEO, Weld Australia
WELD AUSTRALIA CELEBRATES: 100TH COMPANY CERTIFIED TO AS/NZS ISO 3834
Weld Australia is proud to announce that Griffin Marine Services, based in Western Australia, has become the 100th company to achieve certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials. This significant milestone underscores the importance of the AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification in advancing quality, safety, and productivity across Australia’s manufacturing and fabrication sectors.
Geoff Crittenden, CEO of Weld Australia, emphasised the vital role this certification plays in ensuring high standards within the industry. “Achieving AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification is a testament to a company’s commitment to excellence. It is more than just a badge of quality; it is an assurance that products meet rigorous international standards, which is crucial for public safety and the reliability of infrastructure.”
Improving Industry Standards
AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification is recognised globally as the benchmark for quality in fusion welding. By adhering to this standard, companies like Griffin Marine Services
demonstrate their ability to produce compliant welded products. The certification process ensures that every aspect of the welding process is controlled, from initial design through to final inspection, reducing the risk of errors and failures.
Geoff Crittenden continued, “The adoption of AS/NZS ISO 3834 across the industry has led to significant improvements in efficiency, reducing waste and production time, which directly translates into cost savings. More importantly, it enhances the technical knowledge of all personnel involved, from trades to management, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.”
Benefits for the General Public
Beyond the industry, the benefits of AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification extend to the general public. Weld quality is crucial in the construction of safe and reliable infrastructure, whether it be bridges, buildings or vehicles. By ensuring the highest standards in welding, certified companies contribute to the safety and durability of public assets. “The public can rest assured knowing that infrastructure projects delivered by AS/NZS ISO 3834 certified companies are built to last, with a focus on safety and performance,” said Crittenden. “This certification is a key element in delivering safe, highquality projects that stand the test of time.”
SET THE STANDARD WITH NEXTGEN
Australia’s manufacturing industry faces unprecedented growth and challenges as it navigates the transition to renewable energy.
Standards play a crucial role in supporting this transition through safety, quality, and efficiency. In order to implement effective standards, Australia needs technical experts at the core of their development.
By 2050, renewable energy generation is projected to surge from 64GW to over 218GW. Nurturing the next generation of industry and standards development experts is essential.
Standards Australia’s NEXTgen program provides a clear path to success. NEXTgen is an initiative that bridges the gap between emerging professionals and the world of standards development. The six-month professional development program brings together promising industry and technical experts to gain firsthand exposure to national and international standardisation processes.
Participants will deepen their knowledge on standards, their purpose and benefits, and how to interpret them. NEXTgen participants are assigned a dedicated Standards Australia mentor who will help them network with key industry stakeholders and experts within standards development.
Recent NEXTgen alumni Blake Mortimer shared his experience with NEXTgen.“Working as an Engineering Support Manager for Daikin Australia, I refer to standards daily to carry out my job. I developed a keen interest to understand the process as to how standards are developed and why,” said Blake.
“After completing the NEXTgen Program, I have a better understanding of that process and can better interpret the standards I work with. I plan to put my knowledge to use in the Australian Standards committee I have recently joined.”
When asked if she’d recommend the program, participant Christina Green said “100% do it! You will gain insights in communication, building your own brand and effective negotiation.
“It’s been great learning about the development process of a standard and seeing how important the ‘people’ aspect is. A standard is only as good as the experts that provide input, so it’s vital that industry and academic stakeholders stay engaged.”
To be eligible for NEXTgen, applicants should:
• Reside in Australia
• Have an active, professional interest in standards development
• Commit to attending all scheduled events
• Be able to attend a minimum of three standards meetings
• Be committed for the duration of the program, with a view to continued involvement in standardisation
• Be supported by your employer to participate in program activities.
Ready to take your career to the next level? Explore the world of standards, network with industry experts, and deepen your knowledge through NEXTgen. To express your interest or learn more, visit Standards Australia’s website or contact nextgen@standards.org.au
This article was supplied as part of a paid sponsorship package.
Raising your standards
Level Up Your CV with Standards Australia’s NEXTgen program
Standards Australia continues to seek out the next generation of standards development contributors though NEXTgen, inviting a new generation’s problem-solving approach to our world of standards.
NEXTgen is a professional development program targeting individuals from younger generations who are passionate about the future of Standards development. Applicants are selected from across Australia to take part in a 6-month program running each year from March to September. Training content focuses on equipping participants with technical knowledge of the Standards development process, drafting rules and principles, guidance documents and more.
Know someone who would be perfect for NEXTgen? Information is available on the Standards Australia website and applicants can complete our Expression of Interest form to get an early start on applications coming up in September 2024.
THE PROGRAM INCLUDES:
1. Workshops to understand how committees are constituted, how to draft a standard using our standardisation guide, and how to build your own personal brand
2. A dedicated Standards Australia mentor to provide an “insider’s view” and introduce key industry stakeholders and experts within standards development to build and expand your network
3. A deep knowledge of standards, their purpose, their benefits and how to better interpret them
4. A detailed review of the standards development process (with direct exposure to committees), including the necessary skills on how to be an effective technical committee member.
WHAT IS THE COST?
NEXTgen is cost-free for successful applicants.
GOT QUESTIONS?
Email us at NEXTgen@standards.org.au
Scan the QR code to go the NEXTgen page on our website
BREAKING NEWS
NSW Government Set to Support Local Jobs and Businesses
The Minns Labor Government will introduce a series of new measures to support NSW jobs and businesses and encourage the development of local industries, removing barriers to local growth.
Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement
Courtney Houssos has issued a new direction to the NSW Procurement Board called ‘If not, why not’. Under this direction, the NSW Procurement Board will mandate that NSW Government agencies engage with local NSW suppliers before going to tender for projects worth more than $7.5 million. If a contract worth more than $7.5 million is awarded to a supplier outside of NSW, agencies will need to undergo a ‘please explain’ process prior to the contract being awarded, outlining why a local supplier was not successful.
The Minns Labor Government will also legislate to create the Jobs First Commission to oversee the implementation and enforcement of local content measures. It will help grow domestic industries and jobs for local workers.
$53 million TAFE Manufacturing Centre of Excellence Announced
The Federal and NSW Governments have announced joint funding of $53.95 million to establish the TAFE NSW Advanced Manufacturing Centre of Excellence – Western Sydney.
The centre, located at TAFE NSW’s Wetherill Park Campus, will deliver advanced education and training in manufacturing across the engineering, transport and renewable energy sectors. This is set to boost Western Sydney’s competitiveness as a place for global manufacturers to do business.
“Today we are delivering what we promised. A TAFE manufacturing centre of excellence in Western Sydney providing fully subsidised training for manufacturing apprentices,” said NSW Premier Chris Minns. “This will create a pipeline of skilled workers so we have the fitters, machine operators and welders needed to support a thriving domestic advanced manufacturing industry in NSW.”
Increasing the number of people qualified in advanced manufacturing is vital to support a Future Made in Australia.
New $200 million Boeing Defence Project
Work has begun on construction of a giant four bay aircraft hangar in northern Adelaide to facilitate the maintenance of the Australian Defence Force’s Boeing 737 variant military aircraft. The $200 million Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility will be built adjacent to Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Edinburgh.
“This $200 million, state of the art facility will allow us to maintain, repair and overhaul RAAF aircraft in north Adelaide, reducing our reliance on offshore maintenance services,” said Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy. “It means Australian aircraft will be maintained by Australian workers, using their skills to keep RAAF aircraft safely in the skies for years to come.”
The 240m long, 60m wide, 25m high, four-bay hangar is almost 50% longer than Adelaide Oval. The project will enable the long-term deep maintenance and modification of the Australian Defence Force’s fleet of 737-sized aircraft – including P8-A maritime patrol aircraft and E-7A Wedgetail aircraft. Construction is forecast to be completed by mid-2026.
KEEPING WELDERS SAFE CAN BE STRAIGHTFORWARD
Without adequate controls when welding, research shows that typical welding fume and ozone exposures to welders are highly likely to exceed their respective regulatory workplace exposure standards (WES), placing workers at risk of irreversible lung disease, including cancer, and other adverse health effects.
But while the risks posed by welding fume and ozone are serious, it’s vital to understand that keeping welders safe can be straightforward.
An independent Australian scientific study published in 20231 compared the effectiveness of different welding fume product control methods in reducing exposure to welding fume. This peer-reviewed study demonstrated that a Welding Helmet with an Integrated Powered Air Purifying Respirator was by far the most effective control measure in protecting the welder from welding fume exposure when compared to On-Gun Fume Extraction and Hooded Capture LEV1
The same study demonstrated that On-Gun Fume Extraction LEV was 33% more effective than Hooded Capture LEV in extracting welding fume from the environment1
Another independent study conducted in 20232 found that a Welding Helmet with PAPR was able to effectively reduce the welder’s exposure to ozone by 100%. The same study
indicated that on-gun fume extraction (on its own) may not be a reliable method to protect the welder from potential exposure to ozone. Based on the results of this study, ozone didn’t appear to pose a danger to surrounding workers2
According to the results of the studies referenced above, in an environment shared by welders and other workers, a combination of product controls is recommended:
• A PAPR alone is an extremely effective method to protect the welder from welding fume and ozone but does not protect surrounding workers.
• While engineering controls such as on-gun extraction and hooded capture LEV are highly capable of removing welding fume from the environment to protect surrounding workers, they may not be effective in protecting the welder from ozone. Moreover, both are significantly less effective than a welding helmet with PAPR in protecting the welder from welding fume.
Therefore, from a product control perspective, if the goal is to reduce welding fume and ozone exposure to as low as reasonably practicable for welders and others who may be exposed, a combination of a Welding Helmet with PAPR and an appropriate engineering control is recommended.
Based on the respective effective protection factors referenced within the studies1,2, there is little doubt that the above approach if implemented correctly, will reduce both welding fume and ozone to below their respective WES, for both welders and those who work around welders, in a properly ventilated environment.
References
1. 2023 Peter Knott, Georgia Csorba, Dustin Bennett, Ryan Kift. Welding fume; a comparison study of industry used control methods. Safety Journal.
2. 2023 Protecting the welder from Ozone, A scientific study, AWS
This editorial was supplied as part of a paid sponsorship package.
The 2024 National Manufacturing Summit was a huge success. It saw a diverse group of industry stakeholders assemble in Brisbane on 31 July and 1 August 2024.
Building on the momentum of the 2023 National Manufacturing Summit, which focused on the Renewable Energy: Challenges and Opportunities, the 2024 Summit embarked on an ambitious journey with its theme: Pathways to Success…Making the Renewable Energy Revolution a Reality
With interactive sessions that saw attendees have plenty of opportunities to voice their concerns, and make suggestions to the shared challenges, the 2024 Summit explored the practical aspects of manufacturing within the renewable energy sector, highlighting the essential components that will drive Australia’s transition to a sustainable future.
Queensland Premier, Steven Miles, opened the 2024 National Manufacturing Summit. According to Premier Miles, “Making the renewable energy revolution a reality is happening in Queensland. Our government backs manufacturing jobs because they’re good, secure, full-time jobs. Jobs that support families and put food on tables.”
“We are backing renewable energy with the largest investment in infrastructure in Australia, because renewable energy is the pathway through which the manufacturing industry will be a world leader.”
Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia and Trade followed the Premier. According to Ayres, below the ground, Australia has all the critical minerals needed, from magnetite to iron ore and copper. “Above the ground, Australia has a population of smart, skilled and resilient
people. We have the world’s best wind resources, enormous open space, and we are committed to making change in a rapidly shifting world.”
“The only thing we don’t have in abundance is time. This decade really does matter. The Government’s Future Made in Australia package is our chance to strengthen industry, to build a more resilient economy, to create more good jobs, particularly in manufacturing intensive outer suburbs.”
“We must send a clear message that Australia is a good place to invest, and Australian manufacturing is globally competitive.”
Making It Happen
Session One focused on the theme of the Summit: making the renewable energy manufacturing revolution a reality. Since last year’s Summit, Australia has recognised the opportunities of the global energy transition for our manufacturing sector, and now policy change to encourage action (namely the Future Made in Australia Act) is coming. The question remains: how do we actually make it happen?
WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
The Dinner Speaker: Glenn Butcher, Queensland Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Minister for Water
Charlie Joyce (Researcher, Centre for Future Work) touched on the state of the global energy transition and implications for manufacturing, where Australia stands in the emerging renewable energy economy, and what our pathway to success looks like.
According to Joyce, “Australia has the opportunity to rebuild our value-added manufacturing sector, drive emissions reduction, and create thousands of good jobs. But our governments are pursuing a contradictory industrial strategy of supporting renewable energy industries while presiding over and subsidising expanded fossil fuel production.”
“Australia’s subsidies to fossil fuel producers and major users totalled $14.5 billion in 2023–2024, an increase of 31% on the previous year. Fossil fuel production and export competes with renewable energy for investment and skilled workforce. Australia needs a coherent clean energy industrial strategy that phases out fossil fuel production and consumption, and focuses on the renewable energy revolution.”
Simon Kuestenmacher (Co-Founder, The Demographics Group) provided a demographic outlook. Simon explained that global energy demand will continue to grow for a decade or two. Ensuring this additional demand is covered by renewables is crucial in reaching climate targets. Australia has a crucial role to play in this transition. Mining will shift in the public eye from a dirty and polluting industry to an enabler of a green electricity and transport future. Government will allow for more mining and try to better capture the value – expect big tax reforms. New tax structures will ideally copy the Norwegian model. Use mining royalties to build up a local manufacturing sector focused on renewables. This sector is guaranteed to grow for decades and fits into the Future Made in Australia policy nicely.
The Global Outlook
Session Two explored the international landscape of renewable energy manufacturing. Speakers provided insights into global trends, best practices, and innovative solutions that can be adapted to enhance Australia’s renewable energy sector.
Queensland Premier, Steven Miles, opens the Summut
Simon Kuestenmacher (Co-Founder, The Demographics Group)
Charlie Joyce (Researcher, Centre for Future Work)
Tim Ayres, Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia and Trade
Helmet with Heavy Duty 3M ™ Adflo™ PAPR
‘Welding helmets with integrated powered air purifying respirators (PAPR) are the most widely used form of respiratory protection amongst welders in Australia and New Zealand’ 1 and are mandatory within many businesses.
The 3M ™ Speedglas™ G5-01VC Flip-Up Welding Helmet with Heavy-Duty Adflo™ PAPR (part no. 617830) gives professional welders the ultimate in comfort, protection and adaptability, with all-new Variable Colour technology, airflow climate control, and an extra dark shade 14 for high amperage welding.
The powered air respirator goes where the welder goes, allowing unrestricted movement around the workplace with clear vision, comfort, and uninterrupted eye, face, and respiratory protection.
Heavy-duty flip-up welding helmet with 170 x 104mm grinding visor
73 x 109mm viewing area with more realistic True-View optics
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Elizabeth Thurbon (Professor of International Political Economy at the University of NSW) described the polycrisis: governments are facing a cascading array of challenges. At the same time as scaling down fossil fuels, governments need to scale up renewables, all while navigating changes in the geo-strategic landscape, including a growing rivalry between China and the US. This polycrisis is causing countries like Korea, China and Japan to rethink their energy policies—to embrace a state-led approach to energy.
This approach is Green Energy Statecraft – the practice of using green energy policies to address economic, energy, environment, and military security challenges. This new kind of statecraft in South East Asia is helping to speed up the benefits that flow from a green energy economy. Green Energy Statecraft is a policy approach that Australia may also benefit from.
Koen De Backer, an International Expert in Public Policy, spoke about green energy policy from a global perspective. According to Koen, beyond the old and tired policy debates, the discussion is changing – from whether industry policy is needed, towards how to design and implement a green industry policy. There is an active role for government but a green industry policy isn’t easy. Industry policy works better in theory than in practice – the devil is in the detail.
In Australia, there are calls for strategic autonomy, supply chain resilience and sovereign manufacturing capabilities because of national or economic security.
However, Koen noted how important it is that both government and industry focus beyond the small Australian market, and look towards exports. Australia also needs to have realistic expectations, particularly for a manufacturing revival. Australia cannot be good in all (green) industries.
The Queensland Experience
Linda Dobe, Director General, Queensland Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, kicked off day two of the 2024 National Manufacturing Summit. Linda provided an overview of the Queensland experience in renewable energy. Queensland is accelerating towards its renewable energy targets and now boasts 54 large-scale renewable energy projects (operating, under construction or financially committed) since 2015. This represents more than $11 billion of investment, around 8,700 construction jobs, over 6,000 megawatts (MW) of clean energy and more than 15 million tonnes of avoided emissions each year.
Combined with rooftop solar, the state has more than 10,000MW of renewable energy capacity, putting downward pressure on electricity prices. In total, 27% of electricity generated in Queensland is produced from renewable energy sources.
Professor Cori Stewart (CEO, ARM Hub) provided a highly
Emeritus Professor Dr Roy Green (University of Technology Sydney)
Professor Cori Stewart (CEO, ARM Hub)
Monique English (Engagement Manager, Standards Australia)
Peter Ong (Queensland State Secretary, Electrical Trades Union)
engaging overview of the work that the ARM Hub is doing in robotics and how manufacturers can use their data and AI. According to Cori, “AI and automation is estimated to increase Australia’s productivity by 50% to 150% - if we can adopt it at a mid to fast pace.”
“The next frontier in scaling deep technology innovation and modernising manufacturing is the smart use of data and AI. We are harnessing opportunities to collaborate with our partners to embed Australian deep tech companies and manufacturing businesses in high-value global supply chains.”
The Social License
Michele O’Neil, National President of the ACTU said, “July 22 this year was the hottest day ever recorded. To date, this has been the hottest year ever. Climate change isn’t something that might happen in the future. We live it every day. And working people are directly exposed to it –our quality of life and jobs are all at threat.”
“There is a massive opportunity in front of us, if we rise to the challenge. We need to take the necessary steps to transform Australia into a renewable energy superpower. If we’re going to make the most of this opportunity, we have to work together. The union movement has clear guiding principles. Working people need to be at the centre of the transition. Working people need to be heard in the decision making process about the transition. No working people, their families, or their communities should be left behind.”
“We need to seize the opportunity to make and sell the things the world needs.”
Natalie Collard, CEO of Farmers for Climate Action, continued the session on The Social License. According to Natalie, the Farmers for Climate Action member survey revealed that 92% of respondents had experienced climate change impacts, 95% were open to hosting renewables on their farm, and 52% named climate change as the number one threat to their farm business. “The renewable transition is not on track. We’ve hit a stalemate. We’ve got a bottleneck in approvals, higher costs and tight labour markets. Let’s get smarter about this. Lack of social license about planning approvals is something we can change,” said Natalie.
The Technical Framework
Bill Mundy spoke about building the wind energy workforce. According to Bill, the TAFE sector in Australia is incredibly well placed to deliver the training required for the wind sector in Australia. TAFE is well regulated, high quality, and trusted by industry to deliver for the long-term.
Australia needs a dedicated wind turbine technician training program, that covers both a mechanical and electrical apprenticeships—a megatronics focused qualification, with a licensed electrician certificate at the conclusion. This type of qualification would create highly qualified wind turbine maintenance technicians. However, we need enough installed capacity to justify these apprenticeships.
Michele O’Neil (National President, ACTU)
The Australia Capability Panel answer questions
The Queensland Experience Panel answer questions
Bill Mundy
ACTION PLAN
The last session of the Summit saw all attendees engage in an interactive action planning session. The Summit enabled manufacturers, training organisations, unions and governments to sit at the same table—to solve a shared problem. The session revealed that, to effectively advance Australia’s renewable energy revolution, concentrated efforts in the areas of government, community engagement, skills and training, and standards and regulations are essential.
GOVERNMENT
• Specific, Enforceable Local Content Requirements: Set specific, enforceable local content requirements for renewable energy projects and the right investment in heavy manufacturing will fortify domestic clean energy supply chains, boost investor confidence, and cultivate a skilled workforce for the energy transition, positioning Australia as a global renewable energy superpower.
• Investment and Incentives: Create a stable and attractive investment environment by maintaining consistency in production standards and offering incentives such as tax breaks and support for local manufacturing. Funding must also be allocated to build the local workforce capacity and for technology transfer. This approach aims to ensure long-term industry growth and sustainability.
• Consistent Regulatory Frameworks: Federal and state governments must collaborate to create uniform regulations that facilitate the development of renewable energy projects across different regions without bureaucratic discrepancies. All levels of government must establish clear, realistic timeframes and specific locations for renewable energy projects, ensuring that labour and skills are appropriately aligned. Governments must also enforce safety and quality standards rigorously.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
• Strengthen Community Consultation: Engage communities early in the project process through transparent communication and proactive outreach efforts, such as town hall meetings and educational campaigns, to build trust and support for renewable projects.
• Inclusive Benefits and Planning: Develop community-specific benefits and risk management plans that address local concerns and opportunities, ensuring that renewable energy projects contribute positively to the local areas they impact.
SKILLS AND TRAINING
• Revise Educational Pathways: Update schools-based pathways into trades to increase coverage of renewable technologies and link them to climate benefits, helping dispel the notion that trade jobs are environmentally detrimental.
• Skills and Visa Adjustments: Adjust the Jobs Skills Australia Occupation List to reflect real-time market needs and include emerging roles in the renewables sector.
• Comprehensive Reskilling: Implement a nationwide initiative to reskill fossil fuel workers for renewable energy jobs, focusing on identifying transferable skills, providing targeted retraining programs, and ensuring robust support systems during the transition to secure employment in the growing renewable sector.
STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS
• Establish and Harmonise Standards: Develop and harmonise Standards that accommodate the transition from traditional energy sources to renewables, ensuring local manufacturing capabilities are up to par, training programs meet the needs of new technologies, and public safety is paramount.
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BLUESCOPE’S RENEWABLE ENERGY SUPPLY CHAINS VISION
BlueScope sees a strong future for steel continuing to provide a critical foundation for a modern economy and enabling the transition to a low emissions future. The renewable energy transition will be underpinned by steel intensive wind towers, solar farms and energy infrastructure creating a once in a generation opportunity for nation building, new jobs, and long-term economic benefits if local supply chains can be enacted. BlueScope is making significant investments in this area, including upgrading the Port Kembla plate mill to supply into wind towers and transmission infrastructure.
BlueScope is ambitious for Australian industry to develop the manufacturing capability to participate in the energy transition. To unlock this opportunity for domestic industry, the company is continuing to advocate and support the establishment of modern domestic manufacturing capabilities across Australia. Industry will succeed in delivering these new capabilities through partnerships and collaboration together and with communities.
BlueScope seeks to be a solutions partner, supporting and enabling industry to build capability and capacity across renewable energy supply chains. There has been great leadership from Australian fabricators with investments in processing capability for supply of solar torque tubes, roll formed piles, pressed components for large scale solar farms and locally made anchor cages for wind towers. However, all this needs to be achieved with social license, with local communities engaged and realising the benefits that local supply chains offer.
There is so much to be gained from investment in
sovereign manufacturing to support the energy transition. Oxford Economics estimates that for every $1 million invested in local steel supply steel chains, the economic multiplier effect drives an additional $2.8 million in economic output and the employment of five new workers directly in the steel industry and indirectly across related industries.1
The other side of the renewable’s opportunity is the technology challenge in decarbonising the steel making process. The approach to decarbonising BlueScope’s Australian business has firmed into two parallel workstreams.
Firstly, by optimising the existing processes. For example, taking scrap consumption above 25% which is world leading performance and looking to go further. In addition, trials have been conducted using biocarbon as a replacement for a proportion of coal used in the blast furnace.
The second workstream is looking to the technology changes and the key enablers necessary to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Direct Reduced Iron, (DRI), offers the most prospective pathway to decarbonise steelmaking. In the DRI process, natural gas (and ultimately green hydrogen) replaces coal. Natural gas based DRI could reduce emissions by around 60%, while green hydrogen based DRI could bring BlueScope closer towards net zero.
The future of Australian steelmaking and fabrication for renewables is strong, and BlueScope is delighted to partner with industry in driving this.
1. Oxford Economics Report: Benefits of Government Local Steel Content Procurement Program, November 2021
This article was supplied as part of a paid sponsorship package.
Solar farm torque tubes manufactured at Orrcon Steel (Picture courtesy of Orrcon Steel).
BlueScope seeks to be a solutions partner
Supporting and enabling industry to build capability and capacity across renewable energy supply chains
Waubra, Victoria, wind farm towers manufactured by Crisp Bros. & Haywards and Keppel Prince Engineering (Picture courtesy of ACCIONA Energía)
Heavy metal fabrication and welding requires tough gear… ESAB WARRIOR 500i AND 750i ARE THE
TOUGHEST CHARACTERS IN THE
WORKSHOP
The ESAB WARRIOR range of MIG machines are the toughest characters in today’s workshops. While being fantastic standalone MIG machines, Warriors also offer arc-air gouging capabilities along with basic STICK (MMA) and TIG (GTAW) welding processes built-in. Included in some of our Warrior welding machine packages is the Award Winning RobustFeed Pro (Red Dot Award 2021) providing the best possible wire feeding experience in the industry.
Rugged: In extreme heat or cold, this machine will handle a wide range of applications in unlimited industries from ship building, rail car building and maintenance, to energy generation, construction, pipeline, and general welding, heavy fabrication work as well as ship building, civil construction and on-site welding.
Easy to use: Timesaving productivity features like an all-in-one intuitive front control panel, read-anywhere display, and comprehensive cable connection set keep you doing what you do best.
Cost-efficient: State-of-the-art inverter technology means you benefit from energy savings and superior functionality right from the start—and for less than the cost of an old technology.
Reliable: With consistent, dependable performance, Warrior keeps downtime to a minimum and work time to the maximum.
Designed with input from welders: ESAB consulted and listened to expert welders from around the globe to design a machine that works the way you do—hard and smart.
Proficient: Exceptional performance, every time. Warrior was created to provide superior starts and an extremely smooth and stable arc transfer with excellent weld results.
Multiple-Process Welding: This multi purpose machine is designed for GMAW (MIG/MAG), FCAW (FluxCored), SMAW (MMA), and GTAW (TIG) welding, as well as arc gouging, and delivers 500 and 800 amps at 60% duty cycle.
• Welds 0.8–2 mm flux-cored and solid wires
• Excellent Short Arc performance
• Full range of Stick capabilities with excellent 7018 and 6010 performance
• Arc Gouges with carbons up to 8/10 mm diameter on the 500i and 12/16 mm diameter on the 750i
Autofan: Warrior’s autofan is built to keep dirt out, and ensure a long life for your machine. Because it’s only on when it needs to be, it will save you energy and money, too.
Connection Cable Set: Having power, gas, and control in an all-inone bundle with quick disconnect will slash your set-up time and get you welding quicker. Also, because they’re housed in a tough, protective cover, your cables will last longer.
Read-Anywhere Display: Warrior’s sun-friendly display makes it easy to read your settings outdoors and from a wide range of angles.
Indoor and Outdoor Use: The enclosure is built to protect you and your machine. Designed to a higher standard, Warrior can withstand harsh outdoor environments—IP23 rating.
Simple Controls: Easy-to-use means easy-to-get-work-done, so you’ll be up and running in seconds. Glove-friendly knobs make adjustments quick and easy.
Crane Safe Approved Handles: Built in crane lift rated handles which make moving safe and manageable. Both machines exceed human lifting/ carry weight restrictions. A fourperson lift can be achieved on the Warrior 500i Power Source (only) with 4 people capable of lifting 13 kg per person (for weight distribution).
Wire Feeder Options: ESAB offer three (3) different MIG Wire Feeders to suit the Warrior machines. 1) RobustFeedTM Pro 2) RobustFeedTM AVS Voltage Sensing CC/CV Wirefeeder and 3) the WarriorFeedTM 304.
This editorial was supplied as part of a paid sponsorship package.
2024 MEMBER SURVEY RESULTS
As the peak body representing the welding industry, Weld Australia is committed to supporting its members and the welding and fabrication wider industry. Our annual Member Survey helps us better understand both the state of the industry itself, and how we can better serve member needs. Our annual survey was completed by members across the country, which includes major players in the defence, power generation, mining, rail and infrastructure sectors.
Demographics
The majority of survey respondents were based in Victoria (32%), followed by Queensland (25%), and New South Wales (18%) (see Figure 1). The largest age group was 65+, accounting for 20% of respondents, followed by 60 to 64 (16%). This is quite different to last year’s results, in which the largest cohort was aged 45 to 49 (at 17%), followed by 40 to 44 (at 15%).
In line with industry trends, almost 85% of respondents were over the age of 40—an even higher proportion than the 78% recorded last year (see Figure 2). Salaries are relatively healthy compared to Australia’s average wage (of around $98,000 per annum); 24% of respondents indicated that their salary is over $150,000 (roughly the same as in 2023), while 35% of respondents indicated that their salary is between $100,000 and $150,000 (see Figure 3).
Overwhelmingly, respondents are employed full-time (61%). Another 18% are either employed part-time or as a sub-contractor and 13% indicated that they are business owners (see Figure 4). At almost 23%, the majority of respondents have worked for their current employer for over 20 years. This has risen from 19% in 2023. Over 45% of respondents work for a business in the fabrication, manufacturing or engineering industry—a 6% rise from last year. Another 15% work in the education and training industry, 7% in the mining and resources industry, 7% in testing and NDT, and 4% in building and construction (see Figure 5). The vast majority of these businesses are quite large; 26% of respondents indicated that the company they work for has over 500 staff. However, SMEs were also well represented, with 17% of respondents confirming that the business they work for has under 10 staff members.
Figure 1. In which state or territory do you live?
Figure 2. How old are you?
Figure 3. What is your salary?
Figure 4. What is your employment status?
Figure 5. What type of business do you work for?
Rising Costs and Work Shortages
Recent years have seen an increase in government expenditure in infrastructure, Defence and renewable energy projects, as well as a growing sentiment to buy local.
Despite this, almost 7 in 10 Australian welding companies say they have capacity for additional work or that their pipeline is drying up or empty.
In fact, only 16% of welding workshops are currently operating at 100% capacity. Three-quarters of workshops are operating at 80% capacity or below.
When asked why their workshop is not operating at capacity, the major reason cited was a lack of work (75%), followed by a shortage of skilled staff (25%).
A major challenge across the industry in the last year was rising costs, with 64% of respondents indicating that energy prices had increased, and 61% indicating materials prices had increased. For almost one-third of businesses, these costs have been offset with higher selling prices in the past year. Staff turnover rates also increased for a quarter of respondents.
Business owners and senior managers confirmed that their main concerns right now are: labour shortages (22%), a continued lack of work (21%), as well as high inflation and business rates (14%) (see Figure 6). When asked what factors are most likely to inhibit the growth of your business in the next 12 months, business owners and senior managers indicated that inflation and high interest rates (19%) and rising labour costs (19%) were the key concerns (see Figure 7).
In order to combat these challenges, welding businesses are planning to employ a wide range of strategies, including retraining and upskilling existing staff (50%), investing in automation and technology (35%), increasing wages (32%), and changing operational processes (32%).
To address labour shortages, business owners and senior managers have expressed interest in hiring from diverse talent pools such as indigenous Australians (61%), female welders (57%), and people recently released from prison (54%).
Amid growing concerns around inflation and rising costs, many welding businesses are implementing—or planning to implement—productivity improvement initiatives (46%) and automation (39%). These key focus areas are also reflected in plans for increased investment into business process improvements (29%), staff training and development (21%), and robotics and automation (14%) (see Figure 10). As a result of this investment, 46% of business owners and senior managers feel most optimistic about gaining efficiencies through process improvement.
Figure 7. As a business owner or senior manager, what factors are most likely to inhibit the growth of your business in the next 12 months?
Figure 6. As a business owner or senior manager, what is your main concern right now?
Sentiment across the industry remains fairly positive. 68% of respondents rated the prospects of their business as strong or very strong. However, this marks a significant decline from 88% in last year’s survey. And while 83% are confident that their business will be in operation in 12 months’ time, this is also down from 90% in 2023.
Last year, there was an even split between businesses who saw their gross profit margin increase or decrease— both at 25%. But over the next 12 months, the balance is likely to tip: 36% expect their profits to decline, while 29% are forecasting an increase.
Productivity and Tech Investment
Australian welders are highly-productive: two-thirds of businesses rate the productivity of their current welding staff as good or excellent. However, out of the total labour hours per shift, 25% of Australian welders spend less than two hours doing welding (with the arc switched on); 58% spend four hours or less.
The factors most likely to impact on the productivity of welding staff are materials handling (42%) and staff shortages (25%), followed by joint preparation and fit up (21%).
And yet the uptake of advanced welding technology remains relatively slow: a majority of businesses have not planned any investment for this year. In fact, tech investment has not risen substantially since 2023, and in some areas has actually dropped.
The types of technology that the welding industry has planned, in progress or completed include:
• Industry 4.0: 42% (up slightly from 40% in 2023 and 25% in 2022)
• Robots: 37.5% (up from 36% in 2023, and 28% in 2022)
• Cobots: 25% (down from 35% in 2023, and 28% in 2022)
• Augmented or virtual reality: 21% (down from 30%; not reported in 2022)
• Drones: 21% (down from 32%; not reported in 2022).
The largest area of adoption is robots: one-quarter of businesses have at least started investing in this technology. But that leaves many welding businesses that are still not leveraging robots or cobots—and of the adopters, 25% use them for welding for less than two hours a day.
Given that the major barriers to productivity are materials handling and a lack of skilled staff, there is a clear opportunity for welding businesses to harness the capabilities of advanced welding technologies to help address these issues.
Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility
Sustainability continues to be a growing area of focus for the welding industry. 11% of businesses increased their investment into environmental initiatives in the past year, and this figure is expected to almost double (21%) in the next 12 months.
An overwhelming majority of welders (69%) support the Federal Government’s Climate Change Bill which will bring into effect Australia’s emissions reduction target of 43% and net zero emissions by 2050. However, almost as many respondents (66%) say they would like to see the government do more to help industry transition to net zero by the target date.
Figure 8. Has your business, or the business you work for, invested in any sustainability initiatives?
Figure 11. What is the main investment priority for your business in the next 12 months?
Welding businesses are doing what they can on their own to ramp up investment into sustainability initiatives. Most have already planned, started or completed (see Figure 8):
• Implementation of LED or sensor lighting (74%; down from 80% in 2022; up from 53% in 2022)
• Waste reduction programs (76%; down from 78% in 2023; up from 46% in 2022)
• Recycling, upcycing and repurposing programs (70%; down from 75% in 2023; up from 46% in 2022)
• Digital transformation (64%; down from 73% in 2023; up from 33% in 2022)
• Water use reduction (65%; up from 60% in 2023; not recorded in 2022)
• Installation of solar panels (53%; down from 60% in 2023; up from 41% in 2022)
• Purchasing electric or hybrid vehicles (35%; down from 39% in 2023; not recorded in 2022)
• Power factor correction (33%; down from 39% in 2023; up from 10% in 2022)
While these numbers represent a substantial increase from 2022, it’s worth noting that all have fallen slightly since last year’s survey—which may indicate a shifting of focus to the more pressing issue of rising operating costs. And with over half of welding businesses yet to initiate a net carbon plan, the need for government support for industry decarbonisation is evident.
Similarly in the area of corporate responsibility, all figures are down slightly from 2023—potentially due to a change in priorities amid cost challenges. But encouragingly, many welding businesses are still investing in a range of corporate responsibility initiatives.
Measures that the welding industry has planned, in progress or completed include (see Figure 12):
• Employee wellbeing programs (76%; down from 80% in 2023; not recorded in 2022)
• Opportunities for women (76%; down from 81% in 2023; up from 63% in 2022)
• Mental health and fitness programs (75%; down from 79% in 2023; up from 59% in 2022)
• Opportunities for apprentices and trainees (71%; down from 81% in 2023; up from 63% in 2022)
• Diversity and inclusion initiatives (69%; down from 74% in 2023; up from 63% in 2022)
• Modern Slavery Act initiatives (59%; up from 52% in 2023 and 33% in 2022)
• Implementing a Reconciliation Action Plan (48%; down from 53% in 2023; up from 31% in 2022)
71% of respondents consider advocacy on industry issues to be highly important, particularly around quality standards (61%), skilled labour shortages (59%), and funding for TAFEs (53%). Most welders have completed an apprenticeship (75%) and are passionate about gaining practical skills and knowledge relevant to their career field.
Figure 12. Has your business, or the business you work for, invested in any corporate social responsibility initiatives?
Weld Australia’s Excellence Awards are one of the most prestigious events on the welding industry calendar. The Awards embody and promote the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality and professionalism. The 2024 Welding Excellence Awards are a fantastic opportunity for welders, fabricators and educators across Australia to showcase their people and their operations. Winners will be awarded in each state for each of the award categories below. Register now to attend the awards ceremonies.
Company of the Year: recognises superior performance across a comprehensive range of business metrics. There are three categories: Fabrication Company, Supplier, and Indigenous Company.
Welding Professional of the Year: recognises professionals making a valuable contribution to the industry with a high level of skill, knowledge or craftsmanship. There are three categories: Welding Coordinator, Welding Supervisor, and Welding Inspector.
Project of the Year: recognises excellence in welding and fabrication projects, with a focus on exceptional craftsmanship, a commitment to quality standards, environmental sustainability and innovation.
Health and Safety in Welding: recognises organisations leading the way in encouraging and promoting health and safety, and ensuring the health and safety of their team.
Trades Person of the Year: recognises tradespeople who are making a valuable contribution to the industry with a high level of skill and dedication. There are three categories: Young Trades Person, Young Indigenous Trades Person, and Trades Person.
Training and Education Award – Organisation: recognises the outstanding achievements of a STEM or
ATTEND THE AWARDS
• Queensland & NT: Wednesday 9 October at Waters Edge, 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton
• NSW & ACT: Thursday 24 October at Rydges World Square, 389 Pitt Street, Sydney
• Victoria & Tasmania: Wednesday 6 November at Crowne Plaza Melbourne, 1-5 Spencer Street, Docklands
• Western Australia: Thursday 21 November at Burswood on Swan, 1 Camfield Drive, Burswood
• South Australia: Thursday 28 November at Kooyonga Golf Club, May Terrace, Adelaide WITH THANKS
VET provider or program, based on delivery of quality, innovative training, involvement with industry, retention of students, and corporate social responsibility.
Training and Education Award – Individual Teacher: recognises the outstanding achievements of a STEM or VET teacher based on quality of delivery, innovation, knowledge, strong links with students, and dedication.
JAYBEN GROUP: INNOVATING AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURING With Precision and Passion
For nearly a century, Jayben Group has been a cornerstone of Australian manufacturing, transforming from a small machining business into a powerhouse of innovation. Specialising in powertrain products and bespoke industrial solutions, Jayben’s commitment to quality, cutting-edge technology, and a can-do attitude sets them apart. From designing advanced machinery like the ScorpMFR Scaler, to supporting the Australian defence industry, while also being Australasia’s only manufacturer of agricultural power-take-off shafts, Jayben continues to lead the way, driven by a strong commitment to customers, quality and a forward-looking vision.
The Jayben Group is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) that specialises in power train products and light to medium industrial plant and equipment—including R&D, engineering, manufacture, domestic and international distribution, and continuous improvement.
Headquartered in Burnie, Tasmania, and with operations in Royal Park, South Australia, Jayben specialises in their own branded products and bespoke solutions to an expanding group of global businesses.
“The fact that we’re a one-stopshop is what differentiates Jayben,” said Fabrication Manager Danny Patmore. “From design, right through to finished product, we do it all inhouse. We pride ourselves in being able to deliver the full package, supported by a strong domestic and international supply chain and a robust procurement team.”
Family Owned and Operated
Formed in 1927 in Parkside, South Australia, by John Benbow, the original company was focused primarily on machining. Early clients and projects included aftermarket Indian and Harley Davidson Motorcycle powertrains, as well as defence contracts for army vehicles and weapons during the Second World War.
In 1988, the Johnson family took over the business, implementing a new company ownership and structure that better reflects the Jayben Group today. Almost four decades later, the business is still proudly family-owned and run, with Chris Johnson as one of the two General Managers. Danny said, “Our manufacturing facility in Adelaide remains a cornerstone of the business with integrated 5-axis lathes and machining centres in combination with high volume spline broaching production.”
Over the years, the Jayben Group
has been steadily expanding its offering, including off-highway axle shafts, driveshafts, and complex yoke manufacturing; spline and gear manufacturing; defence manufacturing; electrical systems and vehicle wiring harness manufacturing; internal hydraulics systems engineering; and design and manufacture of complex vehicle control systems.
Operations are integrated between Cooee, Tasmania and Royal Park, South Australia with around 45 fulltime employees. Jayben has separate and dedicated fabrication facilities: one focused on aluminium, another on defence and mild steel products, and the third for general production.
A One-Stop-Shop for Manufacturing
In addition to supplying drivelines and agricultural components, Jayben manufactures its own branded products. As owner of Sewell Sweepers since 2004, the company
design and manufacture tow-behind industrial road brooms that provide efficient mechanised cleaning at low cost in full compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADR). These machines are robustly built to be safe and reliable under the toughest conditions, for spray sealing, road construction and specialty sweeping applications.
All Jayben’s branded products are supported in the field by product managers and dealerships that provide support, service parts and well-documented operator literature. All these factors combine to help ensure in-service support that is best-in-class.
In the last five years, Jayben has also focused on contract manufacturing. One notable project that the company has designed, manufactured and commissioned is the ScorpMFR Scaler for mine face restoration in partnership with Grange Resources. Danny commented, “The ScorpMFR
Scaler is suspended off two large winches, and can traverse up to 100m vertically down the face of a mine wall to scale the loose rock from the wall and restore the rock catchment capacity of the horizontal benches. It’s all controlled from a remote operated station, completely removing the worker from the situation and eradicating health and safety risks.”
As a vertically integrated business, the true secret to Jayben’s success is the team’s can-do attitude. “There really isn’t any project or any job that we can’t complete,” Danny said. “Our processes and systems are all based on lean manufacturing principles, enabling us to be an effective, efficient one-stop-shop. We have a broad range of talented engineers, with a high degree of in-depth knowledge and industry experience that makes all this possible.”
Boosting Australian Defence
In 2021, Jayben executed an
agreement with Insitu Pacific, a subsidiary of US based Boeing, which services defence customers globally. Insitu Pacific’s contract to deliver tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to the Australian Army under Land 129 Phase 3 required fully selfcontained and powered launch and retrieval vehicles in support of Insitu’s ScanEagle drones.
Jayben was chosen by Insitu to design and manufacture a number of the launch and retrieval vehicles and provide support via a sustainment contract long into the future. The first of the vehicles has been delivered. The vehicles are required to support the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with best-in-class reliability, security, and mission-readiness.
“With its proven expertise in homegrown design and manufacture, and a strong local supply chain, Jayben is uniquely positioned to meet bespoke mobility and transport requirements in support of Insitu’s
ADF and Asia-Pacific customers. Developing local capacity has the potential to drive sustainable jobs growth in a new technology industry and create export opportunities into new global markets. What’s more, the switch to local production has supported the Australian Federal Government’s stipulated Australian Industry Content while incorporating design modifications to meet specific launch and recovery parameters and Australian (ADR) vehicle roadworthy requirements,” said Danny.
Leveraging their investment into local communities, Jayben is now looking to build on their relationship with Insitu Pacific to explore further opportunities to provide design, manufacturing and sustainment services that support ADF requirements and beyond while boosting the burgeoning domestic Defence industry demand.
Achieving ISO Certification
Since becoming AS/NZS ISO 3834 certified, Jayben has seen a significant improvement in quality across the entire business. The certification means the company is qualified to comply with the requirements of Defence projects, but there are additional benefits.
“We’ve started to see a significant move towards the need for AS/
NZS ISO 3834 certification in road requirements like the Australian Design Rules,” Danny explained. “As we manufacture trailers, we wanted to ensure we’re ahead of the game— rather than playing catch up once certification is mandated across all jurisdictions.”
Danny and his team found the AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification process to be much smoother and more collaborative than they were expecting, thanks to dedicated support from Weld Australia. “I thought it would be a ‘big stick’ approach. But it definitely wasn’t,” he said. “Weld Australia was very supportive. We’d ring and ask a question, and the Weld Australia team would offer their utmost professional guidance.”
The AS/NZS ISO 3834 audit supported productivity and quality improvements at each step of the way. Weld Australia was on hand to provide advice on problem solving on complex structures.
Danny suggested that other companies fully understand the requirements of AS/NZS ISO 3834 before setting out on their own certification journey. Danny said, “The more you understand the standard and process, the easier it is to implement—you won’t be
backtracking all the time. I’d also recommend seeking that consultation and collaboration from Weld Australia. They’re open and transparent in the advice they give and will definitely point you in the right direction.”
Looking to the Future
Always ahead of the curve, Jayben has invested in further advanced manufacturing technologies. Danny said, “We’ve had a cobot for about 18 months or so. We decided to invest in this technology for its gains in the repeatability of quality, rather than simply improved production times.”
With the second production of the ScorpMFR as their next big immediate goal, the company is currently in the initial stages of building and fitting out their new facility. Having experienced rapid growth over the past two years, the team is planning to integrate all fabrications into the one partitioned facility to ensure their processes are streamlined and efficiencies are realised.
Danny said, “Jayben’s strong strategy is to invest in our people, and bring the entire team along for the journey. The training and upskilling opportunities never stop. Jayben is really committed to seeing every team member succeed in their career. Jayben has invested a hell of a lot in my training—more than I ever would have dreamed.”
SPOTLIGHT ON: THE ScorpMFR SCALER
The ScorpMFR Scaler is a revolutionary step in open-pit high wall safety management. This fully remote-controlled, diesel-powered crawler vehicle is designed specifically for high wall scaling and bench/berm material recovery in open cut mines. The ScorpMFR delivers the ultimate safety in spall scaling in areas that are otherwise difficult or impossible to access safely.
Commencing field trials in 2019 with mine partner Grange Resources in north-west Tasmania, the machine has demonstrated excellent suitability for mine wall maintenance. Its design uses a tilt rotator which reverses the bucket to enable loose material to be shovelled away from the base of the wall.
The ScorpMFR is effectively a remote-controlled excavator that can operate vertically on the side of a mine wall or bench, utilising a self-contained command station—a standalone, weatherproof, air-conditioned trailer that simulates the true and natural operation of the excavator.
The vision system uses an advanced augmented reality (AR)
interface, fed from a 3D camera with six secondary 2D cameras for 360-degree situational awareness as well as a 3D depth sensing camera.
This innovative mining industry machine was designed to cut away rocks that were at risk of collapsing as ore was extracted— an inherently dangerous activity usually done in mines by men abseiling down the wall on a rope. Being remote-controlled, the ScorpMFR Scaler doesn’t require anyone to go into unsafe areas, removing the human element from high wall face maintenance.
The manufacture of the ScorpMFR was first assisted by a $430,000 grant Jayben received from the Federal Government’s Regional Jobs and Investment Package—allowing the company to expand its workshops, upgrade its equipment, and employ more staff. This has also created room for multiple simultaneous production lines, along with an investment in electronic and sensor technologies.
The ScorpMFR Scaler has been commercially available since earlier this year.
NATIONAL BATTERY STRATEGY
The Australian Government recently released the National Battery Strategy. The strategy will improve Australia’s resilience and security and drive economic growth by expanding Australia’s battery manufacturing capabilities and building skills. It is a key part of the government’s Future Made in Australia agenda.
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources will lead a coordinated effort with industry, government, businesses and experts to take the strategy forward.
STRATEGY AT A GLANCE
Australia is well placed to seize opportunities from renewable energy thanks to Australia’s:
• availability of resources, including battery minerals (e.g. lithium, nickel, copper and cobalt)
• strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.
• reputation as a trusted trading partner with a low-risk and stable investment environment
• pioneering in battery and energy storage research.
Our vision is that by 2035, Australia is a globally competitive producer of batteries and battery materials, providing secure and resilient battery supply chains, delivering af fordable and secure energy for Australians, boosting productivity, creating wealth and opportunity while being part of the global energy transition.
We will create a fully charged Australian battery industry by focusing on 5 key priorities:
1. Build battery manufacturing capabilities in ways that strengthen economic resilience, leverage Australia’s comparative advantages and add value to our economy.
2. Build knowledge and skills to create secure Australian-made jobs.
3. Secure Australia’s place in global battery supply chains.
4. Lead the world on sustainability, standards and the circular economy.
5. Bring all levels of government together.
These priorities will deliver on 3 key outcomes:
• Economic Support Australia’s renewable energy transition through secure and well-paying jobs, value adding to Australia’s refined minerals, capturing a larger share of the global battery value chain.
• Social Meet our responsibilities to address climate change and transition to renewable energy, leading strong ESG standards in global battery markets.
• Resilience
Diversify global battery supply chains and strengthen Australia’s economic resilience, ensuring reliable energy storage that will support greater use of renewables in Australia’s energy systems.
High value opportunities for Australia:
• Manufacture energy storage systems (ESS) for renewable grids
• Provide battery active materials to the world
• Provide batteries for our transport manufacturing industry
• Use Australian innovation to build safer, more secure batteries.
Read the full strategy: industry.gov.au/publications/ national-battery-strategy
This article was supplied as part of a paid sponsorship package.
POWERING AUSTRALIA
Building Connections, Commercialisation and Capability for Renewables Manufacturing
The Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre was announced as part of the Federal Government’s Australian Made Battery Plan to create more jobs and greater wealth for the nation by manufacturing batteries onshore.
Powering Australia supports Australian businesses to develop and adopt new renewable technologies, including batteries. It will help to create the conditions for success in cleantech manufacturing by connecting businesses, accelerating commercialisation activity and building workforce capability.
Weld Australia is proud to be a foundation partner.
In February 2024, the team behind the Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre (FBICRC) was awarded a grant to establish the Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre. The goal is to help create the conditions for success in clean-tech manufacturing by connecting businesses, accelerating commercialisation and building workforce capability.
The team has a track record of success. Since 2019, the FBICRC has developed new research capabilities and brought together industry, researchers, government, and the community to ensure that Australia plays a leading role in the energy transition.
Powering Australia will build on the FBICRC’s track record of success
and extensive national network spanning industry, government and academia, to deliver national benefits.
Shannon O’Rourke, CEO of Powering Australia said, “As a ‘network of networks’, we are a genuine connecting organisation, not just an additional voice in an already crowded landscape. Our aim is to amplify—not duplicate—the work of others and we want our supporters to benefit from participating in our national network.”
Powering Australian Manufacturing
Powering Australia is part of a suite of policy initiatives—including the National Battery Strategy, Critical Minerals Strategy, National Reconstruction Fund, and the Future Made in Australia Act— designed
“ As a ‘network of networks’, we are a genuine connecting organisation, not just an additional voice in an already crowded landscape. Our aim is to amplify—not duplicate—the work of others and we want our supporters to benefit from participating in our national network.”
to build Australia’s manufacturing base in the transition to a net zero economy.
Batteries, renewables and other lowemissions technologies offer huge opportunities for Australian industry to create jobs and the sovereign capabilities critical to economic success. Headquartered in Perth and operating nodes in five states, Powering Australia will help grow Australia’s clean-tech manufacturing industry to provide opportunities across the country.
The team will focus on three key areas:
• Connecting material producers to manufacturers, and cities to regions
• Commercialising local renewable ideas to accelerate the path to market for Australian inventions
• Increasing capability of businesses and First Nations peoples to participate in the energy transition and build the workforce of the future
Initially granted $14 million, Powering Australia received a $20.3 million boost as part of the Federal Government’s latest budget. This additional spend is targeted to enhance industry and research collaboration, including workforce training for battery research, manufacturing, and transport.
The budget allocation will enable the delivery of supply chain and mineral traceability, a breakthrough innovation program, improved standards and certifications, and nationwide training—the foundational elements of a strong value chain.
Powering Australia has welcomed the funding and commended the Government for backing Australian know-how, with a clear vision underpinned by targeted policy measures and substantial investment. Shannon explained, “We will remove barriers to help lower costs, connect the ecosystem, consolidate demand
and help Australian businesses be globally competitive.”
Strengthening Industry Connections
Leveraging the natural synergies between miners looking to decarbonise their operations and innovative manufacturers, Powering Australia will connect buyers and suppliers using both traditional strategies—including meetings, promotions, and forums—and modern techniques such as big data and AI.
“We want these suppliers to be procurement ready,”Shannon said. “We’re facilitating new common user facilities and field trials so manufacturers can develop, qualify and demonstrate innovative products.
What’s more, the initiative will seek to strengthen connections between cities and regions, with Geelong, Townsville, Hunter, Whyalla, the MidWest, Northern Territory and other places already playing an active role.”
Accelerating Commercialisation
By developing partnership arrangements with leading organisations with local and international common user facilities, Powering Australia will enable businesses to rapidly test their products so they can move towards successfully scaling their operations.
At the same time, the team is building industry databases that will track and surface activity taking place across the country. “This is an important step in helping to connect
Australia’s fragmented ecosystem by making it more visible, more efficient and enabling the consolidation of demand,” Shannon commented.
Moreover, this work by the Powering Australia Industry Growth Centre confirms that Australia can be competitive across a broad range of renewables—with the right technology, at the right scale, and with the right investment mechanisms to support those efforts.
Building Capability and Capacity
A central focus of the Powering Australia agenda is upskilling and transitioning the existing workforce in preparation for the next generation of clean-tech manufacturing employees. To increase capability and capacity, the team will analyse existing skills gaps as well as structural barriers to workforce participation. They will then create a strategic Workforce Development Plan for each cleantech manufacturing sector to achieve the projected creation of 150,000 jobs through the energy transition.
Powering Australia is committed to improving First Nations’ participation in the energy transition. The team has identified a number of partner organisations, including Many Rivers and the First Nations Clean Energy Network, which are established and active in this space. To engage First Nations peoples and communities in the rollout of the program, Powering Australia will work with these partners to leverage their existing networks and community reach.
Shannon said, “We will quantify workforce needs by region and capability segment and forecast growth and work with partner organisations to inform our approach to First Nations participation, including the First Nations Clean Energy Network and learnings from the CRC for Remote Economic Participation.”
The Powering Australia team believe strongly in the importance of First Nations leadership. They are currently in the process of appointing a First Nations Node Leader who will take charge of engagement with partner organisations to help meet the objectives.
Sharing Opportunities
Powering Australia’s mission is to ensure that metropolitan, regional and remote communities can share in the benefits of the energy transition through employment and skill development opportunities. The team is seeking foundation partners and clean-tech businesses to join in the rollout of this once-in-a-century opportunity.
Participating organisations can play a crucial role in:
• Connecting critical minerals
FURTHER INFORMATION
miners to renewable technologies
• Orchestrating common user facilities across multiple states to support innovation
• Consolidating industry supply chains and building a workforce through focused Government support
• Contributing strategic policy advice to Government for the benefit of industry
• Delivering an annual report to inform and call others to action
Foundation partners can expect to benefit in a number of ways. In addition to gaining access to Powering Australia’s industry, grants and capability databases, organisations will receive assistance with identifying suitable sources of funding and building workforces suited to their needs.
Partners will be acknowledged in industry publications and key reports, actively championed by sector experts positioned across the country, and able to demonstrate their support of manufacturing in Australian Industry Participation Plans. Most importantly, supporters of Powering Australia will be helping shape the direction of this nationally important body.
For further information about Powering Australia and how to become a partner, visit: poweringaustralia.com.au
SUN, WIND, MINERALS AND SUCCESS
South Australia’s State
Prosperity Project
South Australia is leading the clean energy transition. The Upper Spencer Gulf has a unique convergence of renewable resources –sun and wind – close to significant mineral resources. They include Australia’s richest copper resource, superior magnetite iron ore resources and proximity to the world’s second largest proven graphite reserve.
The transformation of the Upper Spencer Gulf a central hub for sustainable industries will enable the growth of industries crucial to achieving net-zero goals, including the emerging renewable energy and hydrogen. It will create new opportunities for South Australia’s heavy industry sector to decarbonise processes and to become more competitive against imported goods. It will return manufacturing to Australia’s regions, led by the global push to produce green iron and steel.
A raft of new projects is set to unlock South Australia’s potential to be an industrial and energy powerhouse.
South Australia has what the world needs—a unique combination of plentiful solar and wind resources, valuable minerals including copper and magnetite iron ore, and steel manufacturing capability—all centred in and around the Upper Spencer Gulf.
Earlier this year, the South Australian State Government launched the State Prosperity Project—an initiative to unlock the full potential of renewable energy, critical minerals and green manufacturing to reindustrialise this region.
According to Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, “Right now, in South Australia, there is a once-in-a-generation economic opportunity, and I am determined to ensure we seize it.”
“With our unique combination of sun, wind and valuable minerals in the Upper Spencer Gulf and surrounds, we can lead the world with renewable hydrogen energy,
green steel and copper production, bringing thousands of new jobs and a surging economy.”
“This region has the power to herald a new era of economic prosperity for our state.”
“But it won’t just happen, we have to make it happen. That is exactly what the State Prosperity Project is all about,” said Premier Malinauskas.
Hydrogen Partnerships
South Australia’s first large-scale clean hydrogen production precinct, the Port Bonython Hydrogen Hub, has taken a major step with five major companies signing Development Agreements to use the facility.
From 2025 onwards, the South Australian Government’s investment of more than half a billion dollars into green hydrogen is expected to create thousands of jobs across renewable energy projects, the development of a hydrogen export industry, and a production and storage facility near Whyalla.
Green hydrogen is a clean and reliable energy source that has
the potential to reduce the state’s reliance on electricity powered by fossil fuels. Local production will create new opportunities for South Australia’s heavy industry sector to use hydrogen to decarbonise its processes and become more competitive against imported goods.
In a significant step forward for the project, the South Australian Government has signed Development Agreements with Amp Energy, Fortescue Energy, The Hydrogen Utility (H2U), Origin Energy and Santos, which provide a clear pathway for the project partners to secure a long-term lease on land at Port Bonython.
Copper Investment
South Australia is home to more than two-thirds of Australia’s copper resource. Demand for copper is forecast to surge to supply the materials required for the global energy transition. Copper is an integral part of the rapidly expanding electric vehicle and renewable energy industries.
Activity is escalating at Oak Dam—
one of the most significant copper discoveries in recent history—as it looms as a key project to unlock South Australia’s potential as the nation’s copper capital.
BHP has significantly bolstered its operations at the site since the State Government gave approval for the Oak Dam exploration program last year, with 12 rigs presently on site and most of its 150-person drilling camp now occupied.
BHP has established an integrated copper ‘province’, or collective, in the state’s far north by combining the Prominent Hill and Carrapateena mines with its existing Olympic Dam mine, smelter and refinery, and Oak Dam exploration prospect.
Copper is becoming an increasingly important mineral as the world electrifies and moves away from fossil fuels.
Green Steel
As the world seeks to decarbonise, demand for green steel and iron is forecast to surge.
“ With our unique combination of sun, wind and valuable minerals in the Upper Spencer Gulf and surrounds, we can lead the world with renewable hydrogen energy, green steel and copper production, bringing thousands of new jobs and a surging economy.”
Whyalla Steelworks
Iron and steel manufacturing is the single most carbon-intensive industry in the world – two tonnes of carbon dioxide are emitted for every tonne of steel produced.
In simple terms, green iron involves turning iron ore into iron without the use of fossil fuels.
South Australia already has plentiful magnetite iron ore and a large-scale steelworks at Whyalla. The Whyalla Steelworks is transforming from a coal-based steelmaker to a lowcarbon, green steel producer. The first phase is Steelworks’ decision to close its coke ovens, as part of a transition to a new low carbon electric arc furnace and the installation of a Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) Plant.
The key to transitioning to a fullyfledged green steel manufacturer will be hydrogen energy.
Once the steelworks has a hydrogen energy supply, there is potential to produce up to 1.5 million tonnes of green steel per annum - a 50 per cent
increase - fuelling a third of Australia’s domestic demand and achieving export at scale, with scope for further growth.
Regional Housing
The State Government’s focus on improving regional housing supply for essential workers has reached a key milestone, with work starting on the first houses.
Building has started in Port Augusta on the first of 35 homes to be delivered as part of the Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme.The four, two and three bedroom homes in Port Augusta are located to the west of Joy Baluch AM Bridge and will be built by Constructwell.
The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme has a specific goal to secure suitable housing in regional areas for essential government workers, such as police officers, teachers and medical professionals.
The program will deliver 35 new regional homes across Port Augusta, Mount Gambier, Bordertown, Renmark,
Ceduna and the Copper Coast to address the critical need for purposebuilt government worker housing.
Additionally, 32 cabins will be built at Discovery Parks’ Whyalla Foreshore Caravan and Holiday Park to accommodate the earliest Hydrogen Jobs Plan workforce, under an agreement between the State Government and G’day Group, owner of Discovery Parks and workforce accommodation business Discovery Workstay.
New Renewables Target
South Australia will bring forward its renewable energy target by three years, as the State Government accelerates decarbonised economic development.
Under the ambitious new target, electricity generation would be sourced from net 100 per cent renewables by 2027. Under the renewables plan, excess energy generated from large-scale wind and solar farms will be stored and utilised to provide a consistent output
SOUTH AUSTRALIA HAS WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS
South Australia’s renewable energy share has surged from 1% in 2007 to 74% in 2023. The state is Australia’s renewable energy superpower.
South Australia is home to Australia’s richest copper resource, with global demand for copper set to surge for use in sustainable technology like electric vehicles and wind turbines.
The Upper Spencer Gulf has superior magnetite iron ore resources which is essential for the production of green steel, with demand set to surge as the world seeks to decarbonise.
The key to unlocking the full potential of the critical minerals is water, which is why the State Government and private sector are progressing plans for a desalination plant and pipeline network called Northern Water.
The State Government is seeking to harness renewable energy resources into hydrogen, by building the world’s largest Hydrogen Power Station at Whyalla. Hydrogen is also essential to the production of green steel.
Collectively, these measures have the potential to generate billions of dollars of economic activity and create thousands of jobs.
of supply, providing additional grid stability for homes and businesses around the state.
Wind and solar power is far cheaper than electricity generated by gas, so an increased proportion of renewables will push prices lower.
Technical College, Port Augusta
A significant relationship has been forged between global resources company BHP and the State Government’s Technical College at Port Augusta. Construction on the new technical college is due to begin in the coming months, with the work to be undertaken by Sarah Construction.
The Port Augusta Technical College is one of two regional facilities among five technical colleges committed to by the State Government as part of a $208 million plan to provide an alternative senior secondary option that equips students with the workplace skills needed in areas of high demand. The Technical College will open in 2025 and will
be co-located on the Port Augusta Secondary School site on the corner of Victoria Parade and Hobby Avenue.
Northern Water
The State Government has reached agreement with the private sector to fund further studies, planning and negotiations to inform a final investment decision on the Northern Water project – a critical, sustainable supply of water for South Australia’s north.
If progressed, Northern Water would see construction of a 260 megalitre a day desalination plant on the Eyre Peninsula, and a 600km pipeline to transport desalinated water to the Far North.
A comprehensive business case has found the project has the potential to generate more than $5 billion in annual economic benefit and 4,000 ongoing jobs by facilitating further development of industries crucial to the global decarbonisation effort, including copper, hydrogen and green iron, along with defence, pastoral and community uses.
The Government joined representatives from major companies who have agreed to co-fund the critical next stage of investigations, ahead of a final investment decision on the project in the first half of 2026. BHP, Origin Energy, Amp Energy and Fortescue Energy are among private sector companies to contribute to the expected pre-final investment decision costs of approximately $200 to $230 million.
Weld Australia is collaborating with Tactic and Powering Australia, to engage with the South Australian State Prosperity Project to help ensure local content mandates wherever possible.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For more information about the South Australia State Prosperity Project, simply visit: stateprosperity.sa.gov.au
Olympic Dam Mine
TACTIC: BUILDING CONNECTIVITY
To Strengthen Regional South Australian Supply Chains
Tactic is an independent, member-driven organisation that connects local supplier capability with major project proponents—supporting the success of projects through supply chain integrity. Building extensive industry links, the organisation has become a trusted source of regional intelligence to all levels of government and business in the Upper Spencer Gulf region and beyond, to the Eyre Peninsula, Far North, Yorke and Mid North. As experts and reliable enablers in regional connectivity, Tactic delivers on its core objectives of enhancing avenues for local participation within regional areas, and strengthening relationships between the local supply chain and significant project opportunities. Weld Australia is collaborating with Tactic to help ensure local content procurement for regional projects.
“Connectivity is the fundamental service underpinning the organisation,” said Louise Foote, CEO of Tactic. “In its independent advocacy and connectivity role, Tactic balances impartiality with optimism for the region and its growth, and forges links that are strong and enduring. It grew from the community and businesses that it now serves.”
Over two decades of operation, there has been an extension of the geographic boundaries where Tactic supports its members in major projects; however, the organisation’s focus is and has always been on regional South Australia. “We intend to maintain and continue to build on that strength as we grow,” Louise said.
A Focus on Regional South Australia
One of Tactic’s key strengths is that it was established to be of and for
businesses in the Upper Spencer Gulf region of South Australia.
South Australia is home to a unique combination of plentiful solar and wind resources, valuable minerals including copper and magnetite iron ore, and steel manufacturing capability - all centred in and around the Upper Spencer Gulf.
Home to around 55,000 people, the coastal region surrounding the Upper Spencer Gulf is known for its significant industrial and economic contributions—particularly through the vibrant ports of Whyalla, Port Pirie, and Port Augusta. Local businesses play a critical role in Australia’s mining and resource sectors including steel production, mineral processing, and renewable energy initiatives.
Louise commented, “With over 20
years’ experience, the organisation has built deep, personal relationships with the people, businesses and community of the Upper Spencer Gulf region and beyond, to the Eyre Peninsula, Far North, Yorke and Mid North.”
“Simultaneously, it has earned the respect of major project proponents and government through careful analysis of industry data, and nuanced, factual reporting of project requirements and developments.”
South Australia is experiencing a boom in infrastructure investment, resulting in an unprecedented number of major projects at various stages of planning and implementation across the Upper Spencer Gulf Region and nearby. These projects are largely related to the decarbonisation of the Australian economy across the mining and infrastructure sectors.
“ Connectivity is the fundamental service underpinning the organisation. Tactic balances impartiality with optimism for the region and its growth, and forges links that are strong and enduring. It grew from the community and businesses that it now serves.”
At the same time, there is extensive redevelopment of metal processing facilities and substantial expansion of existing mines.
“The number and scale of projects provide significant business and employment opportunities and the flow-on effects for the region,” Louise said. “However, they also present challenges in relation to local supply capability and the ability for members to scale up to meet demand.”
With over $20 billion in spending in the pipeline for projects that are currently operating, under construction, or in the planning phases—and many more projects likely to emerge over the coming decade—there is a clear need for an organisation to link major projects and suppliers.
“ Connectivity is the fundamental service underpinning the organisation. Tactic balances impartiality with optimism for the region and
its growth, and forges links
that
are strong and enduring. It grew from the community and businesses that it now serves.”
Port Pirie, South Australia
“Gaining easy access to the right project information is critically important to business. Local services and supply chains form a vital component of a project’s ecosystem, underpinning all major project development and operational requirements. However, project proponents, especially interstate operators, lack on-ground relationships and face critical timelines for all aspects of business.”
As a trusted source of regional intelligence, Tactic leverages its broad network of industry connections to expedite linking of suppliers to major project proponents—by delivering current, on-ground, and trusted information to all stakeholders, including local suppliers, major project proponents and all levels of Government.
“All major projects and their continued operation are time critical,” Louise explained. “Through our close industry contacts at all levels of business, we can fast track the linking of the right projects with the right people.”
The Tactical Advantage Program
The Tactical Advantage Program is designed to help regional businesses identify and prepare for upcoming business opportunities with major projects. Through this initiative, SMEs in the Upper Spencer Gulf, Far North, Eyre Peninsula, Yorke, and MidNorth regions can grow their capacity and business capability to meet the expected new demand for regionally sourced goods and services over the next decade.
The business support program is tailored to the unique needs of local suppliers and helps equip local businesses with the necessary strategies and expertise, setting them up for success in major projects within the region.
The Tactical Advantage Program is supported by key funding partners: Northern Water; and BHP Local Buying Foundation.
According to Louise, “The generous contributions made from these two organisations have allowed Tactic to
design and implement a program to be delivered in four stages, the first two of which have a keen focus of establishing ‘needs’ and ‘gaps’. The third and fourth stages are aimed at ‘delivering services’ that address the needs and gaps identified in the initial two stages.”
“This methodology is employed to ensure that any program deliverables are aligned with the needs of the region’s key buyers, and address the gaps in local suppliers’ capability to meet those buyer’s needs.”
In the second half of 2024, stages three and four of the Tactical Advantage Program will be implemented across the region. These stages will include business capability support services such as:
• Business capability workshops addressing the common needs of local suppliers
• One-on-one capacity development sessions with local suppliers
Iron ore train with Whyalla Steelworks
Supporting Regional Businesses
Through its wide range of activities, Tactic has achieved key successes in enhancing supply chain integrity and supporting regional SMEs.
“By linking to major projects, regional businesses are able to capture new and emerging opportunities— driving sustained expansion and viable growth. Regional businesses can boost the professionalism of individuals and teams through expert guidance from Tactic specialists, as well as increased opportunities for peer exchange and industry connections,” said Louise.
“Through facilitation of direct exposure and promotion to highrelevance, ready-made audiences, regional businesses can fast-track their communication and maximise their marketing budgets.”
“Regional SMEs can leverage relevant, accurate, and up-todate business intelligence and insights to support longer-term business planning—leading to smoother business cycles and greater sustainability.”
“By building and maintaining purposeful connections based on high levels of capability ‘fit’, regional businesses can benefit from deeper, more sustained levels of industry engagement. With stronger peer-to-peer links, SMEs can minimise feelings of isolation and flourish in a strong, dynamic regional business culture,” said Louise.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information about Tactic and to become a member, visit: tactic.org.au
BUILDING SUPPLY CHAIN CONNECTIVITY
Tactic has developed a number of initiatives to connect and strengthen the regional supply chain in South Australia.
Early Engagement . Tactic engages with project proponents in the early stages of the process, ensuring project background is provided promptly.
Supplier Forums
Tactic delivers dedicated information sessions for local suppliers to meet project proponents, communicating how to connect to the project supply chain, the prequals required, and where work packages are visible.
Supplier Tours . Tactic leads buyers to the supplier ‘shopfronts’, showcasing their real capabilities. Tours are undertaken early with both the project proponents and Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors.
Supplier Visits . Tactic arranges one-on-one visits to key suppliers, jointly targeted by representatives of Tactic and the project proponent.
Conferences . Tactic runs conferences to engage and inform community members, suppliers, and key stakeholders. These are also attended by project proponents, key contractors and local suppliers—with attendance mandated in contracts and agreements.
Local Supplier Index . Tactic creates a detailed supplier index for major project proponents—this is regularly updated and redistributed to proponent procurement teams.
WOMEN IN WELDING
Clarisse Orchard, Technical Process Specialist, Callidus Welding
Solutions
Clarisse Orchard is a Technical Process Specialist at Callidus Welding Solutions. In this role, she works closely with clients and the rest of the Callidus team to assess quality, fix problems and find solutions for technical queries or issues. A boilermaker welder with expertise in the mining industry, Clarisse is skilled in pipe welding, heavy fabrication, and welding exotic materials like titanium, stainless and super duplex. Clarisse holds a Certificate III in Heavy Fabrication and Boilermaker from North Metropolitan TAFE. Clarisse recently took the time to answer a few questions for Australian Welding magazine.
Can you describe your job?
I’m a qualified Boilermaker welder now working as a Technical Process Specialist. I provide technical advice on critical fabrication and welding scopes and work with clients and the workshop team to deliver fabrication and repairs on high end exotic materials such as titanium, super duplex, tantalum, high nickel alloys and hastelloy—to name a few.
What inspired you to choose a career in welding?
My inspiration for wanting to become a welder was through my time at high school. I was lucky enough to have an engineering and welding course in my later years at school and took advantage of learning the skills and techniques provided in the course. This led me to pursue an apprenticeship after graduating.
Why do you think women should consider a career in welding?
I think women should pursue a career in welding because it is a challenging but rewarding experience. You learn not just hands-on skills, but mentality skills that will last you a lifetime. It will push you to be the best version of yourself as you encounter many physical and mental obstacles along your career path.
Do you have any advice for women considering a career in welding?
My advice for women considering a welding career is to go ahead and do it! You will not regret it! There are a lot of negative stereotypes about women in trades but that’s all they are – just stereotypes! You will have nothing but pride and confidence in yourself once you make a start. All you must do is take the first step.
Have you found working in a traditionally male-dominated industry difficult? If so, how have you overcome any challenges? I believe being the opposite gender in any majorly gender dominated field would be difficult. At times I have found myself really struggling with certain aspects of my career, whether it be physical, mental or verbal. The way I have overcome these issues is to focus on myself and what’s important to me, which was getting my qualification and being proud of myself along the way.
What is the most interesting project you’ve worked on? And why?
The most interesting project I’ve worked on are the routine shutdown work we attend to at different mine
“ I think women should pursue a career in welding because it is a challenging but rewarding experience. You learn not just hands-on skills, but mentality skills that will last you a lifetime. It will push you to be the best version of yourself.”
sites working inside explosion bonded titanium autoclaves and pressure vessels. It’s interesting to see the jobs you fabricate and repair in the workshop being in situ all over the plant which gives you more information of what processes that job goes through and the satisfaction that something you have worked on is making a difference to a large operation.
Who has inspired you professionally and why?
I have had many inspiring tradesmen throughout my time who have helped form and evolve my career over the years to be what it is today. To work with some of the older generations who have been doing this for decades and been taught the old school methods which have lasted the test of time really has made me find the art in what we do. It’s something that has kept the spark in me to learn and grow more.
What do you believe is the biggest challenge for the welding industry at the moment?
I believe the biggest challenge right now would be controlling welding fumes within workplaces and work environments. Coming from a workshop that welds a lot of exotic materials, its crucial to have the right kind of fume protection. This is one of Callidus’ highest values, but may be a hidden risk for other companies.
What about the biggest opportunity?
I believe the biggest opportunity in welding right now is to get more females into the trade industry. Australia is doing great things now for diversity and equality. Soon, we won’t need to have any more schemes or grants as there will already be enough of us out there in the trade industry.
THE CENTRE FOR FUTURE WORK: MAKING AUSTRALIA’S RENEWABLE ENERGY REVOLUTION HAPPEN
The Centre for Future Work is pleased to return as cosponsor of the 2024 National Manufacturing Summit.
As a research centre focusing on the economic issues facing working people, we have long advocated for the importance of manufacturing for Australia’s economy.
Our research shows that manufacturing is not just any economic sector: it carries strategic and economic importance. Manufacturing is the most innovationintensive sector in the economy, driving advances in technology and economic productivity. A strong domestic manufacturing industry ensures the supply of essential products, including medical and energy technologies crucial to national wellbeing. The manufacturing sector also offers relatively high-quality jobs, often with full-time hours and above average incomes, as well as anchoring hundreds of thousands of other jobs throughout the economy via long and complex supply chains.
For these reasons, the Centre for Future Work has proudly helped organise and co-sponsor the annual National Manufacturing Summit since 2017. When we began, the conventional wisdom of governments and most economists still held that Australia, as a highwage resource rich economy, could not competitively manufacture – nor did it need to. We have helped change that conversation and today manufacturing is back on the agenda.
At the 2023 Summit, we outlined how the global renewable energy transition presented a unique
opportunity for Australia to revitalise manufacturing by both producing renewable energy technologies and powering the sector with abundant renewable energy. We also argued that a global race had begun for renewable energy technology industries had already begun - and Australia was barely on the track.
One year later, things have begun to change. In the second half of 2024, we expect to see the legislation of the Future Made in Australia Act (FMAA): the Albanese government’s industrial policy framework. The FMAA aims to use Australia’s globally significant clean energy potential and critical minerals supply to increase onshore value-added manufacturing of products and components relating to the energy transition.
These are positive developments. What we need now is to make it happen. This will take efforts and cooperation from all stakeholders: business, government, labour, the education sector, and broader civil society.
Long-term investment must be prioritised in research and development, innovation and technology, and multipartite cooperation must be established between business, government, workers and the broader community to ensure success.
Workforce development must also be invested in, including through the strengthening of TAFE and our university sector, and incentives (including strong labour standards) and pathways for workers to enter and remain in employment in this industry must be established.
The Centre for Future Work looks forward to discussing how we can revitalise Australia’s manufacturing industrial base and build an economy that is diverse, equitable, productive, and sustainable.
This article was supplied as part of a paid sponsorship package.
THE CHANGING FACE OF AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS
Australian Standards are living documents. They reflect progresses in science, technology and systems To maintain their relevancy, all Standards are periodically reviewed, with amendments and revised editions published. The last few months have seen several developments, including ongoing reviews into Standards related to welding safety and consumables, pressure equipment, bridges and steel structures.
Pressure Equipment
The revision of AS/NZS 3788 Pressure equipment—In-service inspection has been completed and the standard was published in June 2024. Committee ME-001 has reconstituted the subcommittee responsible for AS 4343 and the revision process has commenced.
Welding Consumables
Committee WD-002 has commenced the revision of AS 2576 Welding consumables for build-up and wear resistance. Good progress is being made. ISO has also completed and published its revision on ISO 3581 covering the classification of MMAW stainless steel electrodes, and it has been republished by Standards Australia as the revised edition of AS/NZS 4854.
Welding Safety
The revision of AS 1674 welding
safety series is well advanced. The public review of DR AS 1674.1 Safety in Welding and allied processes— Part 1 Fire precautions has been completed and committee ballot process is underway. The standard is used extensively in industry to establish fire preventative measures whilst welding in locations not necessarily designed for hot work. Public comment was due to commence in late September.
Separate to this project, Committee EL-019 commenced the revision of the sister standard AS 1674.2 Safety in Welding and allied processes—Part 2 Electrical in August 2023. Initial drafting has been completed and the draft has been submitted for preparation for public comment.
Associated with these projects is the revision of AS 2812 Welding, brazing and cutting of metals — Glossary
of terms by Committee WD-003. The 2024 edition of AS 2812 was published in June.
Committee SF-006 has revised AS/NZS 1337.4 through the adoption of ISO 19818-1 Eye and face protection — Protect against laser radiation Part 1: Requirements and test methods to replace it. The document was published as AS/NZS ISO 19818.1 in August 2023. Part 2 of the ISO standard is currently being drafted to provide guidelines on the selection and use of the protective measures included in Part 1. Once published it is intended to supersede AS 1337.5.
Bridges
The amendment to AS/NZS 5100.6 Bridge design — Part 6: Steels and composite construction has been completed and was published in April 2024. The revision aligns the requirements of the standard with the latest revision of AS 4100 Steel structures, AS/NZS 5131 Structural steelwork — Fabrication and erection, and the New Zealand steel structures design standard NZS 3404.1. The revision has resolved known conflicts and anomalies via an amendment. Work has now commenced on drafting a commentary.
Steel Structures
Standards Australia commenced a major revision of AS 4100 Steel structures in May. Committee BD-001 is managing the project. Cognisance is being taken on the relevant amendments to AS/NZS 5100.6. The committee also resolved to adopt ISO 14737 Fatigue — Design
procedure for welded hollow-section joints — Recommendations. This has been completed and AS ISO 14737 was published in August 2024.
WD-003’s project to revise AS/NZS 2214 Certification of welding supervisors —Structural steel welding is well advanced. The project will see the standard split into parts and renamed. The existing standard has become Part 1 and has been revised to accommodate welding inspection, similar to the latest revision of AS 1796. The committee ballot process has now commenced. Part 2 covers bolting supervisors and inspectors, and has been drafted with the assistance of members of BD-001 and ME-029. As previously advised, the long term intention is to add additional parts to cover the qualification of key personnel relevant to AS/NZS 5131. The committee ballot process has now commenced.
WD-003 has also commenced the revision of AS 2205.8.2 Methods for destructive testing of welds in metal Method 8.2: Transverse fillet shear test. The revision will expand the scope of the test method to include provision for the testing of welded mesh and reinforcing materials. Preparation of the public review draft is currently underway.
Committee BD-023 is currently revising AS/NZS 1594 Hot-rolled steel flat products. Formerly managed by Committee MT-001, this standard primarily relates to grades of steel used in hot rolled coil product form but also relates to lighter gauge plate manufactured from hot rolled coil for structural purposes. Public comment closed on 29 May and is currently being resolved.
Testing
Committee MT-006 has commenced the revision of the AS 1815 standards series for the Rockwell hardness test. Consistent with many other test processes, it has been proposed to adopt the relevant ISO standards. The public comment period for these proposed adoptions closed on 5 September.
Committee MT-007 has now commenced the revision of AS 3978 Non–destructive testing—Visual inspection of metal products and components. The revision will remove welding–related items from the current standard and in lieu refer to AS/NZS ISO17637 for the visual examination of welds.
ISO Update
ISO TC44/SC10 has completed
the revision of ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials series of standards primarily taking cognisance of changes to ISO 9001 Quality management systems — Requirements and the 2019 edition of ISO 14731 Welding coordination — Tasks and responsibilities. Parts 1 to 5 inclusive have been published and were adopted by Standards Australia as direct text adoptions in 2023. Revision of Part 6 of ISO 3834 has been completed and was published as a direct text adoption in August 2024.
TC44/SC10 has also been revising ISO 17660 Welding — Welding of reinforcing steel. While it was initially planned to combine the two existing parts into a single document, sufficient objections were received to maintain both parts. Work is ongoing.
Similarly, ISO TC44/SC11 has been revising ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders—Fusion welding— Part 1: Steels to combine all 5 parts into the one standard. This will simplify the ongoing maintenance and review requirements for the standards currently published as Parts 2 to 5 of ISO 9606-1. A draft international standard (DIS) is scheduled to be published for national review in October.
AN UPDATE FROM WELD AUSTRALIA’S INDUSTRY GROUPS
Weld Australia’s Industry Groups provide a forum for technology transfer and research and development, linking members with industry and research organisations. Weld Australia works with Technology Network members to ensure they remain diverse and resilient in the ever-changing and increasingly challenging global markets.
Defence Industry Network
The last meeting of the Defence Industry Group was held in April 2024. There were three main discussions and presentations.
• Brad Day (Fabrications Manager, Austal Australia)
• Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia)
• Jason Elias (CEO, Precision Metal Group)
One of the major challenges currently facing the Defence industry is that of skilled labour, particularly the shortage of qualified welders, engineers with a good foundation in hands-on manufacturing, and certification and qualification of sub-contractors.
The next meeting will be held at the BAE shipyard in Osborne, Adelaide on 31 October 2024.
Advanced Manufacturing Industry Network
The Advanced Manufacturing Industry Network is focused on the two branches of advanced manufacturing: robotic and cobotic automation, and additive manufacturing.
October will be a busy month for the Advanced Manufacturing Industry Network, with three events.
On 1 October, the Industry Network will host a webinar on cobot automation, based on case studies and success stories around Australia with an in-depth discussion with the experts on integration and decisionmaking around cobot technology.
The Industry Network will also host a roadshow of live demonstrations to highlight the benefits and applications of cobot welding. These events are
being hosted in conjunction with the Australian Cobotic Centre (ACC), BOC, and Diverseco. They will take place on:
• 16 October at BOC in Rockleah, Brisbane. Register here
• 23 October at Swinburne University in Melbourne. Register here
Finally, on 10 December, a webinar is planned that will feature a panel of international experts from the USA, UK, Austria, and Australia. Further details will be announced as soon as they are available.
For more information, please contact Dr Cornelis Van Niekerk, c.vanniekerk@weldaustralia.com.au
Power Generation Boiler Training Course
In conjunction with HRL, Weld
Australia developed a Power Generation Boiler Training Course to give power station personnel accelerated development on power station boilers. The subject material included a review of boiler failure modes, NDT and inspection techniques, and discussion of case studies.
The course covered two days and has been held in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. To date, 67 people have attended the course including boiler engineers, workshop supervisors, welders, planners and others. The courses have been well received.
Future courses are being planned for 2025 in Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland.
Renewable Energy Industry Group Planning is now underway for the next meeting of the Renewable
Energy Industry Group. This is to be held online on Wednesday 30 October. The subject will cover a range of subject issues including Battery Energy Storage Systems. Details will be announced in the near future.
Welding Safety Council
An extraordinary meeting of the Welding Safety Council was held in August. The meeting was convened to discuss the recent publication of a study on weld fume by Curtin University for SafeWork NSW.
The meeting was well attended with representatives from safety regulators, suppliers to the industry, occupational hygienists and SafeWork NSW.
There were many concerns and issues raised by attendees. The data was obtained through an online survey and analysed through a
specialist software package. There were concerns regarding data accuracy, data verification, and how the conclusions reflected on the current welding industry.
SafeWork NSW advised that the report that was published was one of five stages of a project to investigate the safety of weld fume.
SafeWork NSW is in the process of reviewing the project in its entirety and will publish the full project documentation when the review process is complete SafeWork NSW was happy to listen to the comments.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information or to join one of our Industry Groups, contact: Andrew Davies on a.davies@weldaustralia.com.au or 0438 428 966.
Clockwise from top left: The Boiler Course at Loy Yang B, Tarong and Vales Point.
WELDING SUPERVISOR AS1796 & AS2214 IN MELBOURNE
Starts 14 October 2024
A Welding Supervisor qualification expands your career horizons enormously. Both AS 2214 and AS 1796 Certificate 10 meet the requirements outlined in AS/NZS 1554.1 to supervise the welding of structural steel. Similarly, AS 1796 Certificate 10 meets the requirement for a welding supervisor under AS 1210 for pressure vessels.
ENROL NOW
ONLINE - IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING INSPECTOR STANDARD (IWI-S)
Starts 29 January 2025
This course provides advanced knowledge of welding and inspection theory and application, including NDT, mechanical and visual inspection techniques, inspection procedures and acceptance criteria, identification of weld imperfections associated with pre-production, fabrication, and post fabrication.
ENROL NOW
WELDING INSPECTOR AS1796 CERTIFICATE 11
Starts 16 October 2024
The Certificate 11 is an Australian Welding Inspection qualification recently introduced to AS1796. This qualification builds upon the foundation knowledge expected of a Welding Supervisor with a distinct emphasis on inspection activities related to pressure equipment, as well as the documentation associated with this role.
ENROL NOW
ONLINE - IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING SPECIALIST (IWS)
Starts 4 February 2025
The IWS course is a globally recognised International Institute of Welding (IIW) qualification. You will gain comprehensive knowledge in the following topics: welding processes and equipment, materials and their behaviour during welding, construction and design, an fabrication, application engineering.
ENROL NOW
ONLINE - IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING INSPECTOR BASIC (IWI-B)
Starts 29 January 2025
This course provides general knowledge of welding, inspection theory and application, including: NDT, mechanical and visual inspection techniques, inspection procedures and acceptance criteria, Identification of weld imperfections. This course is run online over five weeks.
ENROL NOW
ONLINE IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING ENGINEER (IWE)
Starts 13 March 2025
This course provides you with a detailed understanding of welding technology to enable you to apply your knowledge as an IWE, including comprehensively managing, performing, and supervising all welding-related activities, and signing off on behalf of the organisation on all welding quality related matters in production of an item.
ENROL NOW
INTERNATIONAL WELDING TECHNOLOGIST (IWT) COURSE
A blended learning course with the theoretical sessions online over five, four to six week blocks. Starts 13 March 2025.
TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL
An IWT qualification expands your career horizons enormously. Enrol in Weld Australia’s 2025 course now, and start the new year focused on your professional advancement.
WHY ENROL IN 2025?
Covering all aspects of welding, an IWT qualification can reward you in significant ways. International Welding Technologists often make valuable contributions to four of the most important metrics in welding operations: quality, cost, productivity and safety. Not surprisingly then, this qualification can boost your earning potential and job stability and make you the preferred candidate for large-scale welding projects globally.
As an International Welding Technologist, you may manage, supervise, and oversee all company welding activities at a technical level. You will likely have overall responsibility for the quality and coordination of all welding activities.
THREE DAY COURSE
ASME B31.3 PROCESS PIPING CODE
Understand how to quickly and easily apply and implement the quality requirements defined in the ASME B31.3 Code.
Facilitated by US expert, Jim E. Meyer, this course provides an introduction to the ASME B31.3 Process Piping Code.
It covers the requirements of B31.3 for design, analysis, materials, fabrication, testing and inspection of process piping systems. It explores the rules for various components including fittings, connections, bends, valves and specialty components.
Other topics include dimensions and ratings of components, fluid service requirements for joints, piping flexibility and support, welding, heat treatment, bending and forming, brazing and soldering, assembly, erection, examination and inspection.
JIM E. MEYER
Jim E. Meyer PE has over 45 years of experience in refining petrochemical, chemical, power generation, and industrial facilities. He is a principal engineer at CDM Smith, a full-service engineering and architectural firm, located in Wadsworth Ohio. Jim is experienced in overall project coordination and management, pressure equipment, piping design, analysis, specifications, support design, mechanical system requirements, and documentation requirements. His technical competence includes ASME piping and pressure vessel codes, stress analysis, field troubleshooting piping system support, vibration, and expansion problems.
PERTH & BRISBANE
December 2024
COST
Weld Australia Members: $3,610 Inc GST
Non Weld Australia Members: $3,810 inc GST
Payment is required at the time of booking. Cancelation four weeks prior to the start date will not be refunded.
COURSE DETAILS
Perth
Date: 3 to 5 December 2024
Time: 8.30am registration on day one; 9am to 5pm
Venue: Novotel Murray Street
Brisbane
Date: 10 to 12 December 2024
Time: 8.30am registration on day one; 9am to 5pm
Venue: Amora Hotel
QUESTIONS?
For further details, contact: Danielle Pennington on 0493 024 505 or d.pennington@weldaustralia.com.au
ASME SECTION IX
Need to use ASME Section IX? Learn how to minimise cost and maximise qualification usefulness.
WALTER J. SPERKO
The course will be facilitated by Walter J. Sperko, P.E., President of Sperko Engineering Services, a consulting firm specialising in metal fabrication technology, including material selection, welding, heat treating, inspection, quality assurance and failure analysis. He has particular experience in piping and pressure vessel fabrication, installation, maintenance and repair.
Previously, he was Quality Control Manager for RECO North Carolina, and he provided technical support in welding, metallurgy and fabrication for the parent company, Richmond Engineering Company. He was also employed by ITT Grinnell Industrial Piping, where he was responsible for technical interface between piping system designers and the fabrication shop, including all aspects of welding, fabrication and Code interpretation. He also worked for EBASCO Services in the Materials Engineering and Quality Compliance Department.
11 to 13 February 2024
COURSE OVERVIEW
A review of the welding processes and variables, and basic steel welding metallurgy will be conducted to provide all participants with sufficient background in welding technology to interpret and understand Section IX. The mechanics of using Section IX and how to address its requirements will be explained in a simple, straightforward manner. Emphasis will be placed on writing welding procedures so that they contribute positively to the manufacturing process and on qualifying procedures in a cost-effective manner.
COST
Weld Australia Members: $3,610 inc GST
Non Weld Australia Members: $3,810 inc GST Payment is required at the time of booking. Cancelation four weeks prior to the start date will not be refunded.
COURSE DETAILS
Date: 11 to 13 February 2025
Time: 8.30am registration on day one; 9am to 5pm
Venue: Amora Hotel
QUESTIONS?
For further details, contact: Danielle Pennington on 0493 024 505 or d.pennington@weldaustralia.com.au
WELD AUSTRALIA LAUNCHES FREE WELDER SAFETY ONLINE TRAINING COURSES
Welding is a potentially dangerous process, with many hazards and risks to people’s health. These risks are compounded by the fact that welding is undertaken across a wide range of locations and situations, from workshops and field work, through to confined spaces, underground mine sites, and more.
Hazards in each of these situations will be different, and require different controls to keep welders and others in close proximity safe. It is critical to manage these risks and hazards so that people working in the welding industry are kept safe and return home at the end of each day without injury.
To this end, Weld Australia has developed and released two free online welder safety training courses.
About the Courses
Weld Australia has developed two comprehensive online welder safety training courses – one course aimed at welders, and the second aimed at welding engineers and supervisors. These courses are now online and freely available to the public.
The objective of these courses is to improve safety awareness, knowledge and outcomes across the welding industry.
The courses cover a broad range of subject material across welding processes. They provide details of hazards that may be encountered and how to manage them in the workplace. The hierarchy of controls are discussed, with a particular focus on engineering controls and the correct use of PPE.
The courses also reinforce procedures that should be used, such as correct set up and use of equipment and the correct handling of gas cylinders and welding machines. Assessment and certification for course participants is also available.
How to Access the Courses
The courses can be accessed via the Weld Australia website or directly via: https://weldtraining.online
To start the courses, all you need is an account for Weld Australia’s online training platform. If you don’t already have an account, you can quickly and easily create one via the link in the top right-hand corner of the platform’s homepage.
Further Information
For further information contact: Andrew Davies (Manager, Technical Industry Networks, Weld Australia) a.davies@weldaustralia.com.au or 0438 428 966.
Incorporating the welding safety courses into your induction process for new hires ensures all employees start with a solid foundation in safety practices. It helps set a company-wide safety standard from day one.
By undertaking these courses, you can gain essential knowledge on how to protect yourself from hazards like burns and harmful fumes. Learning about PPE and emergency procedures can be life-saving.
The courses can be used as part of an ongoing training program to keep employees up to date with the latest safety techniques. Regular refreshers help maintain safety awareness, reducing risk of accidents.
Looking to start or advance a career in welding? Completing the courses demonstrates to employers that you’re serious about your career and committed to safety, making you stand out in the job market.
By leveraging the courses, organisations can help ensure compliance with safety laws and regulations. This helps avoid legal issues and fines and, more importantly, creates a safer working environment.
If you’re a hobbyist welder (or know someone who is), safety education is just as important. Free courses can provide the knowledge to safely enjoy welding at home, protecting yourself, your family, and your property.
Educating employees on safety can reduce workplace accidents, leading to lower workers’ compensation claims and insurance costs. A well-trained workforce is less likely to engage in unsafe practices.
By educating yourself, you contribute to a culture of safety. Sharing knowledge with peers, and practicing safe welding can influence others to prioritise safety, reducing overall welding-related accidents.
