Renewable energy is presenting new opportunities for Australian-made steel, including the production of clean energy infrastructure such as wind turbines.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic recently told the Australian Steel Institute’s annual convention in Melbourne that the steel industry will benefit from investment in the nation’s renewable energy sector.
In his opening address at the convention for Australia’s peak steel body, Husic said Australian-made steel has a key role to play in the shift to advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and low emissions.
“We want to be a country that makes things,” he said. “Australian-made steel will play a vital role in that vision.
“The net result is higher paid jobs and greater prosperity for Australians everywhere.”
Husic said Australian-made steel is crucial to the economy, employing 140,000 workers and generating $30 billion in annual revenue.
“I am the son of a metal worker and I know how important steel is to the nation,” he said. “Important as the industry is today, it can be bigger and better.”
Husic told the convention the Federal Government is looking to boost Australian jobs in steel as part of the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund.