Australia’s renewed push for local manufacturing has sparked debate, with critics questioning whether the effort is too little, too late. On The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux examines the history of manufacturing decline in Australia and the government’s current push to bring production back home. Is this campaign a strategic revival or just political lip service?
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The History of Manufacturing Decline
Australia once had a thriving manufacturing industry, but globalisation and policy decisions gradually eroded it. Jeremy reflects on the impact of the 1975 Lima Declaration:
“That was the death knell for Australian industry. We willingly outsourced our own manufacturing future.” ([13:05])
The agreement encouraged developed nations like Australia to shift manufacturing to developing countries. Over time, this resulted in local job losses and an increased reliance on imports.
Jeremy questions why leaders allowed manufacturing to decline for decades before deciding it was a priority again.
“We destroyed our own industries and now pretend to be shocked when there’s nothing left.”

The Current “Made in Australia” Campaign
Recent government efforts aim to revive Australian-made products. However, Jeremy is sceptical about whether this campaign is genuine or merely political theatre.
“Why is local manufacturing important now but wasn’t decades ago?” ([12:21])
Jeremy points out that major Australian industries—such as car manufacturing—were abandoned due to high production costs and cheap overseas labour. He argues that without real incentives, this push will fail.
“We don’t just need slogans. We need tax breaks, incentives, and real investment in local production.”
He also criticises the government for still allowing large-scale imports from China while pushing “Made in Australia” branding.
“You can’t have it both ways—either you support local industries, or you don’t.”

“Australia lost its manufacturing muscle decades ago. We can’t just switch it back on overnight.”
Is It Too Late to Save Australian Manufacturing?
Despite the campaign’s good intentions, Jeremy questions whether it’s already too late to revive local manufacturing.
“Australia lost its manufacturing muscle decades ago. We can’t just switch it back on overnight.”
Rebuilding industries requires investment in infrastructure, workforce training, and incentives for companies to produce locally. Jeremy warns that without serious commitment, this campaign will be just another political stunt.
“If they were serious, they would have started this years ago, not when it’s convenient.”

Can Australia Rebuild Its Manufacturing Industry?
Jeremy believes Australia must make difficult decisions to secure its manufacturing future. The “Made in Australia” campaign could be a step in the right direction, but only if backed by real action.
“We need less talk and more action. Otherwise, we’ll just keep importing everything and pretending it’s fine.”
The question remains—can Australia truly rebuild its manufacturing industry, or is it too little, too late?