Swinburne Launches National Digital Manufacturing Hub

Swinburne Launches National Digital Manufacturing Hub to Boost Productivity by 30%

Australia’s manufacturing sector is set for a major transformation with the official launch of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Industrial Transformation Research Hub in Future Digital Manufacturing, known as the Digital Manufacturing Hub, at Swinburne University of Technology.

The Swinburne-led initiative aims to increase the productivity and resilience of Australian manufacturing by up to 30 per cent, delivering next-generation digital solutions to revolutionise industrial production processes.

A Vision for Advanced Manufacturing

The hub will focus on developing cutting-edge technologies that digitally represent, predict, and optimise manufacturing, using advanced systems powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), including digital twins.

Funded through a $5 million grant from the Australian Research Council (ARC) as part of its Industrial Transformation Research Program, the hub was launched at Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus by Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone.

Swinburne Leading National Innovation

Swinburne’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Karen Hapgood, highlighted the broader implications of the hub:

“Through this hub-driven digital transformation, Swinburne and our partners are poised to accelerate the productivity, resilience, and competitiveness of the Australian manufacturing sector, delivering lasting benefits to Australia for decades to come.”

“The collaboration is an exciting example of how Swinburne continues to bring people and technology together, with real-world impact.”

Industry and Global Collaboration

The Digital Manufacturing Hub is designed to boost Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capabilities and support industry through digital transformation. It brings together academic and industry partners across Australia and internationally to foster innovation, collaboration, and talent development.

ARC representative Professor Alison Ross praised the initiative:

“By harnessing the power of AI and IoT technologies, this hub is set to enhance the efficiency and resilience of our production processes. It will also play a crucial role in training the next generation of research professionals, ensuring Australia’s leadership in global manufacturing.”

A Nationwide Effort

The hub will operate under the leadership of Professor Dimitrios Georgakopoulos, a recognised expert in digital capability and manufacturing futures. He will be supported by 18 Chief Investigators, 11 Principal Investigators, and dedicated operational staff.

Swinburne will collaborate with national and international universities including Macquarie University, RMIT, University of Queensland, University of Sydney, University of Carolina (USA), and University of Newcastle (UK) to provide PhD training and mentorship programs for early career researchers.

Industry partners co-creating solutions with the hub include:

• Balluff

• Baosteel

• Butterfly

• City of Logan

• CABLEX

• Corex Plastics Australia

• EzyChef

• Innolabs

• Memko

• Sutton Tools

• Sysbox

This national effort underscores Swinburne’s leadership in the transformation of Australia’s industrial landscape and its commitment to preparing the workforce of the future.

Explore Study and Research Opportunities in Digital Manufacturing

Looking to be part of the future of advanced manufacturing in Australia?

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Start your application today and be part of Australia’s digital manufacturing revolution.