Australian semiconductor sector could unlock billions in growth

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 21 Oct, 19:38 · Archive

Australia could unlock a multibillion-dollar economic boost by supporting semiconductor technologies, an industry body says.

The Semiconductor Sector Service Bureau (S3B) will release a roadmap on Thursday with recommendations for supporting Australia's semiconductor sector to 2040. Chair David Skellern said the industry's potential has been overlooked by investors and lawmakers, despite several Australian companies already doing 'world-competitive stuff' with very little support. 'Those capabilities are what Australia needs to actually pick up its productivity levels,' Dr Skellern said.

Deloitte modelling commissioned by S3B showed that decisions taken in line with those of comparable economies could see the domestic semiconductor industry triple output by 2040, delivering a $5.3 billion boost for the nation's economy. By contrast, constraints on the industry left unaddressed could cost the economy about $14.7 billion. Australia does not need to become entirely self-reliant in chip manufacturing, Dr Skellern said, noting that no nation is.

The roadmap identifies five priorities for growth: national co-ordination, workforce development, investment, commercialisation and strategic infrastructure. It points to expanding fields in which Australia's engineers already excel, including harnessing critical minerals, researching emerging technologies, advanced chip manufacture and chip design. Failure to ensure preparedness would leave critical industries including health, agriculture and defence exposed to international disruptions, the bureau warned.

How it is being reported

• Overlooked industry could unlock billions for AustraliaAustralian semiconductor ingenuity could help propel economic growth and productivity, as an industry body calls for government help to scale up the sector.The West Australian · 21 Oct, 19:01
• Overlooked industry could unlock billions for AustraliaAustralian semiconductor ingenuity could help propel economic growth and productivity, as an industry body calls for government help to scale up the sector.Perth Now · 21 Oct, 19:01

In this story: Australia · Semiconductor Sector Service Bureau · David Skellern · Deloitte

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