Thank you to our event sponsors for their generous support of the 2025 Manufacturing Excellence Celebration and Awards.
DIAMOND SPONSOR
From modest beginnings in a Geelong paddock to six state-of-the-art campuses, Deakin University has always set out to make a difference.
The valued Deakin community spans a network of over 60,000 students, 5,000 staff and more than 350,000 alumni. All have contributed to the rich, impactful legacy, making Deakin the leading university it is today.
Deakin prioritises education and research equally. That’s why Deakin is ranked #1 in Victoria for course satisfaction and in the top 1% worldwide for research impact. Trusted by more than 500 leading organisations, the institution joins forces with the world’s best to bring meaningful impact to those who need it most. From education and sport science to energy and materials engineering, Deakin is a world leader finding tangible solutions to local and global challenges.
Through ongoing research, education and community partnerships, Deakin tackles pressing issues and creates sustainable solutions that benefit society, industry and the environment.
From startups and multinational companies to government agencies and local communities, the university’s collaborative approach drives meaningful outcomes.
Achieve your business goals with a Deakin partnership. Whatever the size of your organisation, Deakin can help you grow your ideas from concept to reality. Tap into the best and brightest minds from their faculties, institutes and research centres.
Collaborating with Deakin offers numerous advantages tailored to meet your needs. Elevate your projects and initiatives through access to their world-class faculties and researchers who are leaders in their fields.
PLATINUM SPONSOR
Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) is a subsidiary of Hanwha Aerospace, a division of the vast Republic of Korea Fortune 500 conglomerate Hanwha Corporation. Hanwha companies have been operating in Australia since 2005 in areas including mining equipment, logistics and sustainable energy.
HDA readily delivers capability by uniting the best Australian and South Korean technology and practices. They have built a foundation to provide cutting-edge technology and expertise to the Australian Defence Force. As the preeminent Defence prime across the tracked, armoured vehicle sector.
Through continued innovation, they are dedicated to reinforcing Australia’s strategic position on a political and industrial world stage. As a technological juggernaut, they are able to respond to next-generation threats by pioneering solutions across the C4I, space and Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) spheres.
Their commitment goes beyond defence; they’re here to drive innovation and transform the Australian industrial landscape. Join them as they pioneer advancements, fostering growth and prosperity for our nation’s future across the C4I, space and GWEO enterprises alongside the world’s best vehicle platforms.
Building upon a strong South Korean industrial base, they bring the best of both worlds to Australian Defence and industry by accelerating capability. Their reliable lineage and technological prowess ensure a secure and prosperous future for Australia through a diverse portfolio of capabilities.
By anticipating future needs in GWEO, space, and long-range fires, they’re not just responding to today’s challenges; they’re shaping tomorrow’s defence landscape. As an authority across multi-domain operations, they stand ready to innovate and ensure Australia’s readiness for whatever the future may hold.
GOLD SPONSORS
Greater Geelong is not only known for stunning natural landscapes, an enviable lifestyle and vibrant community, but for our flourishing economy and competitive employment options.
Manufacturing is in our DNA, having transitioned from a traditional manufacturing base into a UNESCO Creative City of Design, recognised for advanced manufacturing and materials, engineering and clean economy.
As our largest exporting sector and the third largest contributor to Gross Regional Product, manufacturing’s value to our local economy is predicted to increase over the next decade.
Viva Energy is a leading convenience retailer, commercial services and energy infrastructure business, with a history spanning more than 120 years in Australia. The Group operates a convenience and fuel network of almost 900 stores across Australia, and exclusively supplies fuels and lubricants to a total network of approximately 1,500 service stations. Viva Energy’s strategically located Geelong Refinery, has been an important part of Geelong’s manufacturing industry for 70 years, playing a vital role in Australia’s fuel security.
SILVER SPONSORS
The CSIRO help Australian businesses develop new products, components and materials. Whether you’re a start-up, SME or multinational, CSIRO can help deliver innovative solutions for your business.
Their research is based on multi-disciplinary scientific and engineering capabilities and uses world-class infrastructure. They partner with industry to develop innovative products and processes that allow Australian manufacturers to be globally competitive and environmentally sustainable.
Avalon Airport is flying made easy, and offers passengers a convenient, uncomplicated and time-efficient service through pocket-friendly fares.
Established in 1997, and offering Jetstar flights since 2004, Avalon Airport has consistently recorded the highest load factors in the industry. These high load factors along are achieved through a mix of great on-time performance by Jetstar and a high quality and efficient airport operation.