The world’s clean technology future can be made in Australia

Bold action to boost Australian manufacturing capabilities and grow five onshore cleantech supply chains could generate up to $215 billion in revenue and create up to 53,000 additional jobs by 2035, according to a new report by independent think tank Beyond Zero Emissions (BZE).

Make it here: building Australia's clean industrial future underscores the critical need for decisive action to best harness Australia’s abundant resources and raw minerals, and build on our innovation as the world accelerates efforts to move to net zero. 

BZE CEO Heidi Lee said: “From making batteries to recycling steel, the future is already being made in Australia. We have the skills, capabilities and key technologies needed for a zero emissions economy - let’s put them to work.” 

Key findings of the report include:

• Growing just five onshore cleantech supply chains - solar, wind, batteries, heat pumps and commercial EVs - can generate $215 billion in domestic revenue and create up to 53,000 new ongoing jobs by 2035. 
• Australia possesses the necessary natural resources, innovation capabilities, and manufacturing capacity to play an important role in the global energy transition.
• Battery technologies emerge as the most promising sector for Australia's economic growth and decarbonisation efforts, potentially creating up to 20,000 jobs and $114 billion revenue by 2035.
• Smart investment in industries and regional communities will support places like Gladstone, QLD, Kwinana, WA, and the Hunter Valley, NSW, to diversify from a fossil fuel past and grow a clean technology future.

Key recommendations from the report are to: (1) provide time-limited financial support to build competitive Australian cleantech manufacturing industries; (2) ensure demand for Australian-made cleantech grows; (3) focus cleantech manufacturing in clean industry hubs; and (4) develop a circular economy.

“With the right support, Australia can meet global markets’ demand for refined critical minerals, and support onshore demand for cleantech products. Smart investment in supply chains is critical for Australia’s energy security, long-term jobs market and decarbonisation efforts,” Ms Lee said.

“We need to build capability at the top and tail of cleantech supply chains so we are better equipped to capture the benefits from our consumer products right through to waste that we currently have to bury or ship overseas.

“We don’t need to do everything, everywhere and all at once. We need to double down on doing more of what we know, and support the communities, industries and businesses already set up and ready to make Australia’s future,” Ms Lee said.