Australia’s manufacturing renaissance is rolling forward with the arrival of a state-of-the-art robotic welding machine at the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP) facility in Torbanlea, marking a significant milestone in local industrial capability.
The advanced resistance welding robot, described by government officials as the most sophisticated of its kind in the country, has been installed as part of the $7.1 billion facility that will soon produce passenger trains for use across Queensland.
The robot is being deployed to handle precise welding of train car components, a job that traditionally demands highly skilled manual labour but stands to benefit from the consistency and speed of automation.
Queensland’s Manufacturing Minister Dale Last said the technology boost will not only improve production quality and efficiency, but also create opportunities for local workers to upskill. Staff are being recruited and trained to operate alongside the machinery, with the Torbanlea plant on track to begin manufacturing in 2026.
The move reflects a broader push across Australian fabrication workshops to integrate automation in response to chronic skills shortages and increasing demand across rail, defence and infrastructure sectors.
By blending advanced welding technology with human expertise, Queensland aims to future-proof its manufacturing base ahead of major projects, including preparations for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
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