The Albanese Labor Government is backing metals manufacturers to grow and decarbonise as we move to a Future Made in Australia, with a new expert Advisory Panel to advance green metals production here in Australia.

By 2040, the greener metals industry could deliver up to $122 billion a year to Australia’s economy, while reducing emissions by as much as 250 megatonnes.

Members of the new Green Metals Advisory Panel were joined today by Minister Husic, meeting for the first time to promote and accelerate greener metals manufacturing.

The Advisory Panel offers decades of experience in metals industries, financing, research, decarbonisation and industrial workforce issues. Members comprise:

• Mark Cain, Chief Executive of the Australian Steel Institute
• Paul Farrow, National Secretary of the Australian Workers Union 
• Paul Howes, National Managing Partner, KPMG 
• Marghanita Johnson, CEO of the Australian Aluminium Council 
• Steve Murphy, National Secretary of the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union 
• Jenny Selway, CEO of the Heavy Industry Low-Carbon Transition Cooperative Research Centre
• Rebecca Tomkinson, CEO of the Chamber of Minerals and Energy, Western Australia

Australia’s vast natural resources paired with abundant renewable energy can position the nation as one of the lowest-cost, low-emissions metals producers in the world.

Advice from the panel will complement views being gathered from around the country as part of the green metals consultation, which generated over 90 submissions from producers, peak bodies, researchers and others.

The Advisory Panel will provide independent advice to support the preparation of policy options on green metals and industry decarbonisation.

The panel will also help inform the Government’s Net Zero Industrial Plan to drive down emissions and support investment across the industrial sector.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic

“From Whyalla to Gladstone and Bell Bay to Collie, Australia has a proud history in metal manufacturing. Shifting to greener metals production provides an opportunity for a sustainable future, to continue that rich legacy. 

“This Advisory Panel boasts impressive expertise and longstanding experience, helping guide Australia to capture the new jobs and export opportunities that come with greener metals manufacturing. 

“Making more things here to create more jobs and grow businesses is what a Future Made in Australia is all about, that’s why we’re making the investments that back Australia’s manufacturers to turn that vision into a reality.”