Australia’s manufacturing industry, employing around 900,000 people and contributing approximately $100 billion to the national GDP annually, is at a pivotal moment. Additive Manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D printing, is transforming the landscape by enabling the creation of complex geometries and customised products across various sectors, including defence, aerospace, healthcare, automotive, construction, and fashion.

AM is expected to expand rapidly over the next decade, significantly driving Australia’s economic and technological advancements. The AM market reached $14.7 billion in 2023, with a growth rate of 13%. Recognised by the Australian Federal Government as part of its Critical Technologies within the advanced manufacturing and materials technologies field, the AM market is expected to continue expanding. Additionally, the AM industry is projected to grow rapidly, with revenues expected to hit $25 billion by 2025. This growth is attributed to advancements in hardware, materials, software, and services.

This expansion underscores the importance of developing robust standards to help ensure quality, safety, and innovation. Standards Australia’s National Committee MB 028 - Additive Manufacturing is actively collaborating with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), which has a unique partnership agreement with ASTM International for the co-development of AM standards.

Engagement in AM standards development ensures Australia has a voice in shaping the standards that enable trust in AM-produced products, supporting the ability to unlock sensitive or high value-added products, ranging from military applications, turbine blades, engine parts, to dental implants and prosthetic limbs.

Dr. Rebecca Murray, Chair of MB 028, emphasises, “This system provides the best opportunity for Australia to leverage global expertise while influencing the development of standards to meet our national interests.”

Since its establishment in 2019, MB 028 committee has adopted 26 international standards, with several more in progress. Among these, AS ISO/ASTM 52900:2023 stands out for setting up fundamental principles and vocabulary for AM, fostering a common language and understanding across the industry.

Learn more about our manufacturing sector and engage with us to drive awareness and input on AM standards development: Manufacturing | Standards Australia