Australian manufacturers advance smart factories and new prefabricated‑construction regulations

Manufacturers across Australia are accelerating the deployment of connected, smart‑factory technologies to improve efficiency, compliance and global competitiveness. Industry leaders cite cost pressures, labour shortages and stricter sustainability policies as key drivers, with McKinsey research suggesting linked insights across facilities could raise production capacity by up to 50 %.

At the same time, Australian policymakers are shaping a second layer of regulation for modern methods of construction (MMC). The Australian Building Codes Board has opened a consultation on a voluntary national certification scheme for prefabricated construction, defining standards for end‑to‑end systems, quality management and workforce competency. The draft framework, which includes an optional design‑approval pathway and provisions for overseas manufacturers, will remain open for comment until 15 September 2026.