Inside Australian Manufacturing Week 2026: robotics, software, skills and productivity

Australian Manufacturing Week 2026 delivered more than just machines on stands. It surfaced the real conversations manufacturers are having about productivity, automation, software, skills, and how to stay competitive. 

In this episode, Paul Mason and I speak with a cross-section of exhibitors and industry leaders on the show floor, capturing what is actually resonating with Australian manufacturers right now. 

You will hear from Tim J. Kelly from the Manufacturing Excellence Forum on why regional manufacturing ecosystems like the Sunshine Coast matter more than ever. PPC Moulding Services share how advanced metrology, scanning and prototyping are helping manufacturers reduce risk before investing in tooling. ECI unpack why ERP, business systems and AI need to solve real problems rather than chase hype. 

The conversation also covers workforce challenges, reshoring wins, automation and robotics, manufacturing software, and why AMW 2026 felt different, with fewer tyre kickers and more serious buyers. 

This is a practical snapshot of where Australian manufacturing is heading, straight from the show floor. 

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Show notes and links for this episode: https://www.manufacturingtech.au/episodes/