The new partnership will strengthen links between research and industry.
The Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC) has strengthened its Australia-wide research capability by welcoming Edith Cowan University (ECU) as its newest research partner.
ECU joins AMCRC's network of 12 universities and CSIRO, adding expertise and industry connections that will help accelerate the uptake of additive manufacturing across key sectors of the economy.
The partnership supports the AMCRC's bold vision, Australia Makes, and its mission to unlock the transformative potential of additive manufacturing through industry-led research, workforce development and technology adoption.
AMCRC Chair Susan Jeanes said ECU's addition enhances the CRC's capacity to support manufacturers while building capability in one of Australia's strategically important regions.
"AMCRC is creating a national ecosystem that connects manufacturers with the expertise, skills and infrastructure needed to adopt and apply additive manufacturing.
"ECU's strong research capability and industry links make it a valuable addition to our partnership, particularly as Western Australia continues to develop significant opportunities across defence, mining and resources.
"Additive manufacturing has the potential to transform how these sectors design, produce and maintain critical components. Building the workforce, knowledge and industry capability required to realise that opportunity will be essential, and ECU will play an important role in that effort.
"At a time of growing global uncertainty, strengthening Australia's sovereign manufacturing capability has never been more important. Together, we are building the skills, knowledge and industrial capability needed to support more resilient supply chains and a stronger manufacturing future."
Professor Wei Ni, Associate Dean (Research) with ECU's School of Engineering, said joining the AMCRC will strengthen the links between research and industry while creating new opportunities for innovation.
"Joining AMCRC will enable ECU to work directly with manufacturers to develop and commercialise solutions that improve productivity, resilience and global competitiveness," Professor Ni said.
"The partnership creates opportunities to translate research into industry outcomes and support technology adoption across start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, government, community organisations and major companies, including those operating in Western Australia's resources sector.
"By combining ECU's research expertise with the AMCRC's national industry network, we can help businesses solve complex challenges, build a future-ready workforce and unlock new opportunities for Western Australia and the world."
As a Research Partner, ECU will contribute to collaborative research programs, project development and workforce initiatives designed to deliver practical outcomes for Australian industry and bring additive manufacturing further into the foreground.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to building a stronger, more connected AM ecosystem capable of delivering long-term economic and industry benefits for Australia.
