Queensland invests A$750,000 to build manufacturing workforce AI skills

The Queensland Government is investing A$750,000 to help manufacturers build workforce capability in artificial intelligence (AI), as businesses across the state prepare for greater use of emerging technologies in industrial operations, according to the government.

The Manufacturing AI Uplift trial programme, delivered through ARM Hub, will support eligible manufacturers in identifying and implementing practical AI applications while developing the skills and capability needed to use the technology.

The programme will be open to manufacturers across Queensland, including regional businesses.

Building AI capability

The initiative will focus on helping manufacturers identify where AI can be applied to existing operations and how employees can develop the capability required to support its adoption.

Rather than focusing only on technology implementation, the programme will work with businesses to identify practical applications that can improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and build workforce capability.

“Queensland manufacturers are already leading in innovation, and this investment will help more businesses put AI to work on the factory floor,” Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said.

“We’re backing manufacturers that are ready to adopt AI to improve productivity, boost competitiveness and grow their businesses.

“Queensland is home to many innovative manufacturers, and this program will help ensure they are part of the next wave of industrial innovation.

“As we come to the end of Queensland manufacturing month, there’s no better time to back our manufacturers to embrace new technology, boost productivity and seize the opportunities ahead.”

Skills for AI adoption

ARM Hub will work directly with participating manufacturers to identify potential AI applications and develop practical pathways for implementation.

ARM Hub CEO Professor Cori Stewart said workforce capability would be an important part of helping manufacturers translate AI opportunities into operational outcomes.

“Artificial Intelligence is already transforming advanced manufacturing globally, and this program is about making sure Queensland manufacturers have the capability and confidence to take advantage of that transformation,” Professor Stewart said.

“For many manufacturers, the challenge isn’t understanding that AI presents an opportunity – it’s knowing where to start and how to apply it in a way that delivers genuine value to their business.

“Through the AI uplift program, ARM Hub will work directly with manufacturers to identify practical applications for AI that can improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and build workforce capability.”

Preparing workers for change

The programme comes as manufacturers face growing pressure to adopt technologies that can change how work is organised and delivered across industrial operations.

AI applications can be used in areas including process optimisation, predictive maintenance, supply chain analysis and workforce planning. Adoption can also require employees to develop new technical and operational skills alongside existing manufacturing expertise.

By supporting manufacturers to identify use cases and develop internal capability, the Queensland programme is aimed at helping businesses prepare their workforces for wider technology adoption.

Expressions of interest are now open to eligible manufacturers across Queensland, including businesses in regional areas.

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