Workforce development key to manufacturing success

Attracting the next generation of workers to manufacturing, and adapting skills to an ever-changing industry were some of the key challenges highlighted by the local manufacturers at a recent forum.

The Western Sydney Manufacturing Forum was recently held in St Marys, bringing together over 100 Western Sydney manufacturers to discuss workforce development strategies.

Manufacturing is a major contributor to Penrith's local economy and employs over 6,700 people.

The event was delivered in partnership with Workforce Australia for Business, and Training Services NSW, Services NSW, and Penrith City Council. Attendees heard from a team of experts and industry leaders including Apprentice Employment Network NSW & ACT, University of Technology Sydney, Western Parkland City Authority, and Manufacturing Skills Australia.

In his opening address, Cr Todd Carney, Mayor of Penrith said "By working together we’re building a future that’s not just Made in Australia, but a future Made in Western Sydney."

Council will continue to support events such as this to create a thriving environment for local businesses to grow and help achieve Council's goal of an additional 2,000 manufacturing jobs in Penrith by 2031.