Photo of Forum Panel Members
ARC Digital Manufacturing Hub Public Forum 2026
Bringing Research, Industry and Innovation Together
The ARC Digital Manufacturing Hub Public Forum 2026 brought together manufacturing leaders, researchers, technology providers and policymakers to explore one of the most important questions facing Australian industry:
How can digital technologies, data and artificial intelligence improve productivity, resilience and competitiveness in manufacturing?
The forum focused on several critical areas shaping the future of manufacturing:
- Digital Twins and Physical AI
- Manufacturing productivity and resilience
- AI adoption in industrial environments
- Data, connectivity and digital infrastructure
- Workforce capability and change management
- Digital transformation strategy
- Sovereign manufacturing capability
- The role of automation in Australia’s industrial future
These themes were explored through research presentations, industry case studies and an expert panel discussion featuring leaders from manufacturing, telecommunications, energy and digital technology sectors.
Research Impact in Action
A highlight of the forum was the presentation by Dimitrios Georgakopoulos, Director of the ARC Digital Manufacturing Hub, showcasing how Physical AI and Digital Twins are being applied to solve real manufacturing challenges.
Industry case studies demonstrated how Hub-developed technologies are helping manufacturers:
- Predict and prevent production anomalies
- Improve production efficiency
- Reduce unplanned maintenance
- Enhance product quality
- Improve sustainability and energy efficiency
Examples included work with Krueger, illustrating how research is being translated into practical industrial outcomes.
Industry Perspectives
Industry speakers provided candid insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with digital transformation.
A recurring message throughout the forum was that successful digital transformation is not simply about deploying technology. Organisations must build strong foundations in people, processes and data before scaling AI and automation initiatives.
Discussions explored how manufacturers can:
- Identify and address operational constraints
- Build workforce capability alongside technology investment
- Improve decision-making through better visibility of data
- Create sustainable returns from AI investments
- Develop scalable pathways to digital maturity
Panel Discussion: Digital Manufacturing in Practice
Chaired by Zahir Tari, the panel brought together experts from industry and technology sectors to discuss practical pathways for digital transformation.
Topics included:
- Assessing digital maturity
- Where manufacturers should begin with AI
- Overcoming barriers to technology adoption
- Building workforce capability
- Managing organisational change
- The future of sovereign manufacturing in Australia
- Opportunities for regional manufacturers
- The potential for highly automated and “lights-out” manufacturing environments
Looking Forward
The conversations throughout the forum reinforced that Australia’s manufacturing future will be shaped by the successful integration of advanced technologies, skilled people and strong industry-research collaboration.
The ARC Digital Manufacturing Hub remains committed to working with industry partners to develop and translate cutting-edge digital manufacturing solutions that improve productivity, sustainability and competitiveness across Australia’s manufacturing sector.
Event Highlights
- Industry, research and government engagement
- Showcase of emerging Digital Twin and Physical AI technologies
- Real-world manufacturing case studies
- Expert panel discussion on AI and digital transformation
- Cross-sector networking and collaboration opportunities
- Strong focus on practical industrial impact and adoption
Photo Gallery
Explore highlights from the ARC Digital Manufacturing Hub Public Forum 2026
Dimitrios presented industry case studies demonstrating the application of Physical AI and Digital Twins in manufacturing.
Andre Gu, Powra, discussed the value of Unified SCADA Platforms.
Zahir expertly moderated the panel discussion and audience Q&A.
Marcelo discussed sustainable ROI from AI and the importance of strong lean foundations.
Jerry presented on the importance of connectivity and digital infrastructure.
Steve shared practical insights on digital and AI transformation in manufacturing.
The day began with breakfast, providing attendees with an opportunity to connect before the forum commenced.
Interactive panel discussion
Conversations continued
