How To Source Australian Made

The 5 Biggest Myths About The Cost Of Manufacturing In Australia

Think it’s always cheaper to manufacture overseas than in Australia? Here’s why that’s not true!

Are you one of the many business owners who believes manufacturing in Australia is too expensive to compete globally?

If you’ve ever wondered whether it really costs more to manufacture products in Australia than overseas, this short video will change the way you think.

In it, Andrew Grant and Steve Eagle, Australia’s leading product sourcing and manufacturing expert, break down the five biggest myths about the cost of manufacturing in Australia.

You’ll discover how hidden import costs, automation, and advanced local technology can make Australian manufacturing not only viable but often 30–50 percent cheaper than importing.

Watch now to see how sourcing locally can help you reduce risk, improve quality, and grow your margins, all while supporting Australian industry.

If you’re an entrepreneur or business owner looking to create something proudly Australian, stick around. We’re about to debunk the 5 common myths about the cost of manufacturing in Australia, demonstrating how local sourcing can actually be 30 to 50% cheaper than importing

Key Takeaways:

  • 1:04 Myth #1: Australian Manufacturing Is Too Expensive
  • 1:28 Myth #2: Overseas Sourcing Is Always Cheaper
  • 1:59 Myth #3: Local Wages Make It Unviable
  • 2:31 Myth #4: Australia Lacks the Technology
  • 2:52 Myth #5: You Can’t Compete with Imports

FAQ: Australian Manufacturing Costs & Sourcing

Q1: Is manufacturing in Australia always more expensive than overseas?

A: Not necessarily. Once you include shipping, import taxes, delays, defects/returns, and exchange rates, local manufacturing can match or beat offshore pricing—often by 30–50% in Steve’s projects when costs are engineered early.

Q2: Can I do small or custom production runs locally?

A: Yes. Many Australian factories specialise in short, custom runs, which makes Australia a smart testbed before scaling. You get faster iterations and fewer minimum-order headaches.

Q3: Don’t higher Australian wages kill cost competitiveness?

A: Higher wages are offset by automation, process efficiency, and quality control. Fewer defects and less rework mean a lower total cost to deliver.

Q4: Does Australia have the advanced tech I’ll need?

A: Absolutely. Australia has world-class robotics, precision engineering, and sustainable manufacturing—all of which reduce unit cost while improving quality.

Q5: Isn’t importing less risky?

A: Importing adds risks: supply-chain delays, currency exposure, language/communication issues, and long lead times. Local production gives speed, control, and oversight—reducing operational risk.

✅ Learn how to tap into the Australian-made market

If you’re ready to explore local manufacturing, there’s a practical way forward.

On our free online How to Buy Australian Made workshop, led by product-sourcing expert Steve Eagle, you’ll discover how to:

  • Identify products Australians are already looking for
  • Get them made locally at a competitive price
  • Avoid common pitfalls in sourcing
Picture of Steve Eagle

Steve Eagle

Steve Eagle is a product sourcing expert who’s managed over $1.8 billion in projects, helping businesses connect with trusted Australian manufacturers.

Featured
Scroll to Top