Leadership in safety and compliance
The ASI’s commitment to leadership in safety and compliance continues to drive significant advancements.
Work has commenced on the major revision of AS 4100 Steel structures. This project, initiated last year, saw the Standards Australia BD001 Committee form various working groups, with ASI’s national technical development manager Peter Key chairing the ‘connections’ group. By September, we expect all working groups to have drafted the proposed changes.
We recently met with Queensland’s shadow minister for manufacturing Deb Frecklington to discuss the National Structural Steelwork Compliance Scheme (NSSCS) and support for SCA certification of Queensland steel fabricators.
In another important discussion, we met with the Registrar of the Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland regarding the increased approval of imported fabricated steelwork by registered engineers. There are concerns that the imported fabricated steelwork does not meet Australian Standards or the National Construction Code. Certification of fabricators to AS/NZS 5131 as a means to reduce risks was highlighted.
A guide for clients, builders, and contractors on the NSSCS is now available via our website. Additionally, our new online course on Structural bolting: specifications, supervision, and inspection is also now available via our website. It is designed to ensure the highest standards in bolted joint performance.
Securing robust supply chains with strong local content
Our ongoing efforts to secure robust supply chains with strong local content have yielded significant progress, particularly in regards to the New South Wales Renewable Energy Plan. We recently met with AEMO Services to address steel supply chain issues, and shared innovative local tender information that reduces costs. AEMO Services has requested a checklist of local steel suppliers and fabricators for tender participation.
ASI met with representatives from the New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water to discuss monitoring compliance with local content requirements. We shared best practices from Victoria and South Australia, including insights from the Local Jobs First Commissioner and the Office of the Industry Advocate.
We participated in the Queensland Renewable Energy Manufacturing Industry Roundtable, emphasising local steel supply chain contributions.
In Victoria, we engaged with the UrbanLeap Consortium for the Suburban Rail Loop East project, supporting 100% local steel content under the Local Jobs First Policy. In addition, the sustainability manager for the M80 Ring Road project will now be pushing for SSA L2 certification in procurement requirements.
Creating a strong and skilled steel workforce
Our dedication to creating a strong and skilled steel workforce is evident through various initiatives and collaborations. We recently launched a dedicated ASI webpage for careers advisers to guide secondary school students towards careers in the steel supply chain.
Our careers in manufacturing education program with Icon Metal, in collaboration with the Regional Industry Education Program, is making strides. We are also focusing on school outreach initiatives, including attending high school career expos and subject selection events to showcase career opportunities in the steel industry.
ASI exhibited at the Adelaide Careers and Employment Expo, fully funded by the South Australia Department for Education, promoting steel industry careers. We also attended the Sydney Build Expo to address trade skill shortages and promote diversity and inclusion.
2024 Australian Steel Convention
With the theme of What it takes: sustainable building and infrastructure, the 2024 Australian Steel Convention will be held from 8 to 10 September at the Pullman Brisbane King George Square.
An exciting line-up of presenters and panels will examine: cost-effective, sustainable, and resilient steel solutions; case studies showcasing steel’s versatility, reusability, and traceability; demands and opportunities of the Australian infrastructure initiatives and projects pipeline; and the current and future requirements and capabilities of the Australian steel supply chain. Register via steel.org.au.
Mark Cain
Chief executive, ASI
