In this episode of Manufacturing Tech Australia, we sit down with futurist Marcus Barber to unpack what is really happening across the manufacturing landscape in Australia today. We explore the ongoing flow on effects of supply disruptions, the shift from just in time to just in case, cash flow pressure on smaller manufacturers, and how global tariff movements are creating unexpected opportunities for Australian exporters.

Marcus also shares powerful insights into the skills shortage, why the sector struggles to attract and retain talent, and how manufacturers can rethink engagement by hiring in cohorts and supporting slow retirement models. We also dig into emerging risks, strategic blind spots, shifting consumer markets, and how technology and AI will influence the sector over the next few years.

We sit down with Harry and Paul from Inturing to move past the AI buzzwords and get practical about automation in Australian manufacturing. We talk about the real opportunities, the common traps, and how to use AI as an enabler for better processes instead of chasing the latest shiny tool.

We walk through how manufacturers can connect the dots between CRMs, ERPs, finance and project systems, and we look at simple ways to free people from low value admin so they can spend more time with customers and on strategy. From sales call transcription to purchase order processing and accounts receivable, we show how small, targeted automations can add up to serious savings and better cash flow.

Harry and Paul also share the mistakes they see all the time, why “AI first” thinking often backfires, and a simple way to get started without blowing the budget or creating a data security mess.

What kind of person decides to start a high-performance electric motorcycle company in Australia from scratch? In this episode, we sit down with Dennis Savic, founder of Savic Motorcycles, who’s turning childhood ambition into an engineering and manufacturing reality.

We explore how Dennis went from dreaming about motorbikes at age 14 to designing modular electric bikes with bold performance specs. He shares the story of navigating startup life, building a brand named after his family, and doing it all without the deep supply chains of Europe or Asia.

We talk about product strategy, lessons from his time at Ford, and what it takes to push through doubt when the odds are stacked against you. If you’ve ever wondered what kind of grit and drive it takes to build something from nothing, this one’s for you.