Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews has welcomed the overwhelmingly positive support for the Morrison Government’s Modern Manufacturing Strategy.  

“Our almost $1.5 billion investment is sending a signal here at home and to the world that not only is Australia open for business, but we mean business,” Minister Andrews said.

“We’re putting our manufacturers in the driver’s seat to create jobs and make our nation more secure and I’m buoyed by the support we have already received to make this happen.”

Even Labor has backed our National Manufacturing Priorities. 

        Shadow Industry Minister Brendan O’Connor – ABC TV

          Jane Norman: “Are these the six key industries for Australian manufacturing?

          Are these the areas that Australia is actually competitive in?”

          Brendan O’Connor: “Absolutely”

There has also been widespread backing across industry and the science community. 

Business Council of Australia Chief Executive Jennifer Westacott:

“By playing to our strengths, the government’s strategy is designed to back in Australian manufacturers to help drive the recovery and rebuild a clever economy for the future.”

Ai Group Chief Executive Innes Willox:

“It is gratifying that the Federal Government has clearly recognised the role of manufacturing in the economy and committed to creating the right conditions for industry growth through policy areas such as taxation, skills and training development, energy, innovation and deregulation.”

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO James Pearson:

“Supporting our manufacturing sector to be innovative and internationally competitive should be a priority for Industry Policy. Today’s announcement is a very large step towards this goal.”

Minerals Council of Australia CEO Tania Constable:

“Australia’s mining and manufacturing industries have always sustained each other. Today's announcement will bring both sectors even closer together to lead the post-COVID reconstruction.”

National Farmer’s Federation President Fiona Simson:

“The Government’s prioritisation of food manufacturing [is] a smart choice, which will pay dividends in the regions.”

Australian Investment Council Chief Executive Yasser El-Ansary:

“At this critical juncture in our national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is vitally important for our economic recovery and Australian jobs that our manufacturing capability can effectively and confidently grow and attract investment for the future. It is an important step towards supporting the rebuilding of business activity across the Australian economy and in sending a global message that Australia is open for business.”

Australian Food and Grocery Council CEO Tanya Barden: 

“Today’s announcement will encourage companies to invest in Australia, to support jobs in local economies, particularly in rural and regional areas, and to take advantage of Australia’s supply of clean agricultural inputs and strong food safety system.”

Medical Technology Association of Australia CEO Ian Burgess:

“More than half of Australian medical device companies have grown from local start-ups, so today’s announcement will make an important impact where it is needed most, shoring up Australia’s MedTech innovators now and into the future.”

BAE Systems Australia Chief Executive Gabby Costigan:

“The announcement by the Prime Minister today is a show of support for the growth of advanced manufacturing in Australia. A strong and capable manufacturing industry is essential to delivering our modern defence capabilities and rebuilding the nation post COVID-19.”

Australian Academy of Science Secretary of Science Policy Professor David Day:

“A modern, growing, manufacturing sector working hand in hand with Australian science promises to be key to our economic recovery from the recession.”



Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070