Powering the future of manufacturing
The Make It Manufacturing campaign is a new, government-supported pilot promotional initiative by the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance. Our goal is to inspire young people and those who support them to discover opportunities in Australian manufacturing. This site is your starting point to explore possible careers and stories.
The campaign has been built in direct response to the challenge highlighted in the 2024 Manufacturing Workforce Plan, which identified the urgent need to draw new entrants into Australia’s manufacturing industry.
Despite manufacturing’s pivotal role in sectors such as clean energy, aerospace, and advanced technologies, outdated perceptions and a lack of awareness about secure, high-tech, and purpose-driven career opportunities persist, making it difficult to engage young people, parents, and educators.
Challenging perceptions
This initiative reframes manufacturing as a career driven by innovation and global impact, offering clear examples of diverse opportunities for youth. It shares inspiring stories of young people thriving in modern manufacturing and engages directly with students, parents, and career advisers fostering awareness, interest, and an understanding of training requirements.
The plan
This campaign aligns with Australian Government guidelines for funded initiatives, ensuring transparency, accountability, and impact. It is built on robust research to guide development, track progress, and measure outcomes.
An integrated media strategy combines digital, TV, outdoor, PR, and events to maximise reach, while strategic public affairs amplify earned media coverage. Comprehensive evaluation and reporting will assess effectiveness and the campaign’s success in shifting perceptions of manufacturing careers
Who we are
The Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance leads this pilot promotional campaign as Australia’s industry-owned and led Jobs and Skills Council for manufacturing. We work with employers, unions, government, and VET providers to address workforce challenges—building a strong, innovative, and adaptive industry.
Learn more: www.manufacturingalliance.org.au
About Jobs and Skills Councils
Jobs and Skills Councils (JSCs) connect industry voices with vocational training, identifying skill needs, creating career maps, and developing training products that address workforce demands. By supporting collaboration between businesses and training providers, JSCs help ensure Australia’s workforce is prepared for change, and training adapts to evolving industry priorities.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We are an industry-owned and industry-led initiative, and acknowledge the contribution of Burra Foods, Hargo Engineering, Bombardier, and Sutton Tools for generously opening their doors to us, allowing our team to film and photograph onsite and feature their talented staff in our TV Commercial.
We also extend our sincere thanks to all the participants from the manufacturing sector who shared their insights and dedicated their time to help us shape this campaign. Your collaboration and support have been instrumental in highlighting the strength and innovation that define our industry.
What do jobs in manufacturing actually involve?
Manufacturing jobs are diverse, ranging from operating high-tech machinery and assembling products to designing new processes and maintaining equipment. Some roles focus on hands-on production work, while others emphasise quality control, logistics, engineering, or supervision. You might find yourself working with robotics, digital monitoring systems, or even in roles that support sustainability initiatives.
Is manufacturing still dirty, dangerous, or repetitive?
Modern manufacturing has changed a lot. While some jobs still involve manual labor, many workplaces are now highly automated and technologically advanced. Workplaces prioritise safety and cleanliness, adopting strict protocols to protect workers. Repetitive tasks can be assigned to robots, allowing people to focus on monitoring equipment, solving problems, and ensuring quality.
What kind of skills or education do I need?
Many manufacturing jobs require vocational courses or apprenticeship. For some roles in engineering, management, or robotics, a bachelor’s degree may be needed. Important skills include:
- Technical aptitude and ability to work with machinery
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork and communication
- Basic computer skills and openness to learning new technologies
Is manufacturing a good, stable career? Will I earn a decent salary?
Manufacturing offers good job stability, especially as skilled workers remain in high demand. Wages vary by industry and location, but many positions—especially those requiring specialized skills or technical knowledge—offer competitive pay and benefits. Entry-level roles often provide opportunities for overtime and career advancement.
What is the future of manufacturing with automation and robotics?
The industry is becoming more technology-driven. Automation and robotics are creating new roles for technicians, programmers, and engineers, even as they reduce some manual positions. The result: workers are tasked with overseeing advanced equipment, maintaining systems, and improving processes, making jobs more skilled and less repetitive.
Are there opportunities for advancement and growth?
Absolutely. Manufacturing values skill development and on-the-job learning. With experience and further training, you can move into supervisor, technician, quality control, maintenance, or management roles. Some companies invest in their workforce through continuing education and apprenticeships, supporting long-term career growth.
What is it actually like to work in a manufacturing facility?
Modern facilities are well-lit, climate-controlled, and organised. Teams collaborate to meet production targets, solve technical challenges, and ensure quality standards. The work setting is usually structured, with clear safety procedures and the use of technology throughout. Many employees appreciate the sense of teamwork, job variety, and opportunities to learn new skills every day.