The Federal Government’s Role in Manufacturing and Skill Transfer to Private Industry: Case Studies from the Small Arms Factory, Lithgow, the Royal Mint, Melbourne Branch and the Royal Australian Mint.

Abstract

The Small Arms Factory (SAF), Lithgow and the Royal Mint, Melbourne, although diverse in nature, have had a significant impact on the manufacturing industry in Australia. Operations ceased at the SAF during the 1990’s and all equipment sold off at auction. The Royal Mint, Melbourne officially ceased operations in 1964 with the opening of the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra (RAM) however some limited manufacturing continued until 1968 when the plant was finally shut down and all equipment sold. While the Small Arms Factory and the Royal Mint, Melbourne Branch no longer physically exist their effect upon the heritage of Australia’s manufacturing industry as well as that of Australian citizens, in general, is still of profound importance and has been augmented by the Royal Australian Mint. In this paper I will present some historical background as well as some case studies in which I have been personally involved.