ARTICLE:
The NSW Government has shortlisted ten proponents for the next stage of its Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Industry Expansion Program, following more than 60 expressions of interest from Australian and international organisations.
The program aims to establish or expand advanced manufacturing facilities capable of producing prefabricated building components and systems, increasing construction capacity and supporting housing delivery across NSW.
Proposals cover a range of approaches, including modular and panelised construction, robotics-enabled manufacturing and kit-of-parts systems. Around two-thirds of the expressions of interest came from Australian-based organisations.
Shortlisted proponents have been invited to submit detailed proposals, with the Request for Proposal stage running from 16 September to 19 October 2026.
The program places particular emphasis on manufacturing capacity for medium- and higher-density residential construction, while also considering applications across other building sectors.
OUR PERSPECTIVE
Investment in manufacturing capacity is an important development for Australia’s MMC sector. However, increasing factory capacity does not automatically translate into more completed housing. Reliable project pipelines, early design decisions, procurement arrangements, approvals and site readiness must align with manufacturing requirements.
The challenge is not simply establishing more factories, but creating the conditions for those factories to operate productively and deliver projects consistently.
Source: NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure — Modern Methods of Construction Industry Expansion Program.
