Future Made in Australia Assistant Minister Ayres to journey through regional communities on listening tour
Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia, Senator Tim Ayres, will tour regional communities across Australia, consulting with local stakeholders to explore ways to increase Australian steel and local manufacturing content in renewable energy infrastructure.
The Federal Government’s Future Made in Australia initiative aims to deliver more Australian-manufactured steel and components for wind, solar, and transmission projects, bolstering job opportunities in regional areas while maintaining affordability for electricity users. As part of this effort, Assistant Minister Senator Tim Ayres will visit the Hunter, Illawarra, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Latrobe Valley, and Collie to gain firsthand insights into how local industries and communities can contribute to these projects.
Senator Ayres’ tour includes consultations with project developers, industry representatives, unions, community groups, and experts to assess practical ways to incorporate Australian content. These discussions aim to help local manufacturers and fabricators gain a strong foothold in Australia’s renewable infrastructure rollout, creating jobs, supporting apprenticeships, and building stronger regional economies.
According to estimates from the Australian Steel Institute, more than 300,000 tonnes of steel will be needed by 2030 to meet wind energy project demands in line with net-zero goals.
Assistant Minister Ayres stressed the government’s commitment to this regional development approach, stating, “This is another practical step in the rollout of the Albanese Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda. A Future Made in Australia will be made with Australian steel.”
In addition to addressing the role of steel in green energy projects, Ayres’ tour will explore how Australian manufacturing can meet the demand for transmission infrastructure. By working directly with regional communities, the Government aims to ensure renewable infrastructure benefits flow back into areas such as the Hunter and Illawarra, which have a rich history in steelmaking and manufacturing.
