About the Cairns Manufacturing Hub
The Cairns Manufacturing Hub supports the growth and capability of North Queensland’s manufacturing sector by connecting businesses and workers with training, technology, innovation and workforce development opportunities. The Hub works with organisations including Manufacturing Skills Queensland, Weld Australia, TAFE Queensland and WorkSafe Connect to address regional skills needs and strengthen local industry. Its initiatives range from accredited technical training and safety courses to leadership development and exposure to advanced manufacturing methods. These opportunities help businesses improve productivity and compliance while enabling workers, educators and students to build industry-relevant knowledge. The following programs remain available, upcoming or open for expressions of interest.
Introduction to 2D and 3D Computer Aided Manufacturing
The Cairns Manufacturing Hub and TAFE Queensland are delivering heavily subsidised Computer Aided Manufacturing training for manufacturers across Far North Queensland. The course covers the national units MEM09022, Create 2-D code files using a computer-aided manufacturing system, and MEM09023, Create 3-D code files using a computer-aided manufacturing system. It is designed to bridge the gap between digital design and physical workshop production, helping businesses increase production efficiency, reduce material waste and strengthen workforce CAD/CAM programming capability. Participants must provide evidence that they have completed the listed prerequisite engineering and computing units before enrolment can be approved.
Commencement: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 5:00 pm
Location: TAFE Queensland Cairns Campus, A Block – Advanced Manufacturing Building, entrance closest to Trinity Bay State High School on Eureka Street
Cost: $250
Enrolment: A two-step approval process applies. Applicants must first apply to TAFE Queensland and confirm that they meet the prerequisites. Approved participants will then receive the Eventbrite link required to secure the Cairns Manufacturing Hub subsidy.
Contact: Sandra Scarcella, Principal Capability Development Officer – sandra.scarcella@nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au or 0436 832 594
Manufacturing Skills Queensland Funded Safety and Short Courses
Eligible small and medium Queensland manufacturing businesses with fewer than 200 employees may access Manufacturing Skills Queensland funding for selected WorkSafe Connect courses. Each eligible participant can receive up to $300 in subsidy support, subject to the program requirements and completion of the MSQ eligibility application before the course begins. Available training includes confined spaces, working safely at heights, elevated work platforms, first aid, CPR, fire and emergency roles, risk assessment, work permits and selected high-risk licences. Many listed courses have no participant cost after the subsidy, while others require a reduced contribution. Businesses should confirm eligibility, course availability and final pricing directly with WorkSafe Connect.
Delivery locations: Cairns and Townsville
Eligibility: The employing business must be an eligible Queensland manufacturing business with fewer than 200 employees. Participants must meet Queensland residency and citizenship or permanent residency requirements.
Contact: WorkSafe Connect – info@worksafeconnect.com, 07 4728 9866 or 07 3277 3282
Program information: View details / register
Weld Australia Welder Qualification Training – Expressions of Interest
Manufacturers and welders can register interest in industry-recognised welder qualification training delivered in accordance with AS/NZS ISO 9606-1. The five-day program combines one day of theory with four days of practical training and assessment across Gas Metal Arc Welding, Manual Metal Arc Welding and Flux-Cored Arc Welding processes. Qualification under this standard supports compliance across structural steel, pressure equipment and other industrial applications. It can also improve weld quality, workforce flexibility and competitiveness when tendering for major projects. Training locations and delivery dates are being finalised, so interested businesses and participants are encouraged to register early and review the full program requirements.
Status: Open for expressions of interest; dates and locations to be confirmed
Training and certification information: View details/register
Advanced Composites One-Day Workshop – Expressions of Interest
The Advanced Composites One-Day Workshop offers practical exposure to modern aerospace composite manufacturing, including monolithic and sandwich structures. The hands-on format is designed to build awareness of materials, methods and applications used in advanced manufacturing environments. The workshop may be relevant to industry professionals, teachers and students seeking insight into emerging technologies and specialist production techniques. Expressions of interest are being collected while delivery arrangements are developed. Prospective participants should review the workshop flyer for current details, associated costs and registration information.
Status: Expressions of interest open; delivery date to be confirmed
Workshop flyer and expression of interest: View details/register