The Australian Government has announced the launch of their local capability register Capability Connection.
A six-month pilot of the free online register is now available for businesses located in Greater Melbourne, South East Queensland and Townsville.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian Government received feedback from industry regarding difficulties finding businesses that could supply or retool their offering to meet supply chain needs locally. The Capability Connection is being developed with industry to provide a simple register and search for local suppliers and opportunities.
The Capability Connection allows manufacturers and other local suppliers to register and promote their actual and potential capabilities to other businesses and the public.
ICN Limited was integral in the creation and build of the new register, and will manage the system on behalf of the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Christian Porter said the need for a detailed register was identified at the start of the pandemic when manufacturers who wanted to pivot to the production of items such as face masks and hand sanitiser had difficulties identifying suppliers of raw materials in their region.
“Capability Connection aims to fill this gap by improving supply chain visibility and fostering collaboration between local businesses, ensuring we can avoid the risk of shortages of essential items at critical times,” Minister Porter said.
The register is expected to provide an important contribution to the Australian Government’s economic recovery plan. It complements the Government’s JobMaker plan and Modern Manufacturing Strategy, which is driving our economic recovery and building future resilience.
Further information is also available on the DISER’s website, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and an update from the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology is also available.
