Significant Complex and Non-Complex Objects During COVID-19

Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of how Australian manufacturing responded during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a little over half a century Australian manufacturing has fallen from a key part of the national economy in terms of employment and earnings to currently sitting behind other sectors such as mining and tourism. This has led to a reliance of imported goods as a way to meet the needs and demands of its people. During times of open movement and unrestricted trade this model has proven to be functional and beneficial to both supplier and end user. However, the ability to make objects has been a part of humanity for centuries as our need for physical objects has remained an integral part of life. The process of making objects is as varied as the objects themselves, some are straightforward others are very demanding. The ability and know-how associated with object making is not easily gained; it requires dedication and investment. Examples of manufacturing excellence are evident in various parts of the world; achieving this status demands an appreciation of the value of object making. Observation of the particular response to COVID-19 by local Australian object makers during particularly challenging times serves to highlight the importance of maintaining the ability to make things. To make or manufacture objects requires both ability and capacity and also, the understanding that the value of this endeavour goes beyond the economic drivers of supply and demand.

The significant disruption to supply chains brought about by COVID-19 has allowed object makers an opportunity to showcase their capabilities and flexibility to respond in times of need. Even in seemingly simple and single material objects, the production process is challenging and demanding. This complexity is tacitly understood by those involved in object making, but perhaps not always fully understood or appreciated by those not directly involved. The objective of this chapter is to shed light on the value of object making and how COVID-19 has highlighted the fact that being self-sufficient in terms of object supply is an important and sometimes vital activity. The primary objective however, is to demonstrate how the notion of complexity is present in both complex objects and objects that are not so complex and that both types (complex and not so complex) are important parts of the manufacturing sector.