Connecting Businesses to Respond to COVID-19

Businesses wanting to play their part in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic will have greater access to potential partners and customers thanks to an industry matchmaking site backed by the Australian Government. Developed by the Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC), the COVID-19 Manufacturer Response Register will bring together manufacturers, suppliers and customers via a self-managed platform.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, said the capability matching feature of the platform allowed companies to post a need, solution or capability online, which would be shared on a live community feed. The supply matching feature will help suppliers connect with organisations looking for crucial supplies across the manufacturing value chain, be it research, design, production or service and support.

“The economic impact COVID-19 is having on local business here in the New England is unparalleled,” Mr Joyce said. “That’s why it is so important local industry and businesses are able to get back on their feet as soon as possible. To help re-establish supply chains, we’re playing matchmaker and linking those producing the goods, with the distributors and the end customers - all they have to do is register.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said finding a solution to connect local supply and demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) was at the forefront of the Government’s response to the COVID-19 crisis.

“Industry asked for this and we have delivered. This digital platform is the missing puzzle piece that will unlock widespread collaboration across the manufacturing sector and boost domestic capability by creating and expanding local supply chains,” Minister Andrews said. “The matchmaking platform has already resulted in local businesses pivoting to produce essential medical supplies for COVID-19 - keeping Australians in work and building long term capability in the recovery phase.”

AMGC Managing Director Dr Jens Goennemann said the willingness of Australian manufacturers to support the current crisis demonstrates the strength of the industry. “Australian manufacturers are highly skilled, resilient and willing, and this enhanced platform allows them to continue to support the COVID-19 response while offering their services to a broader range of potential customers,” Dr Goennemann said.