About this episode

Nicci Rossouw discusses the evolving robotics landscape in Australia and essential steps for manufacturers to adopt robotics by 2026.

Australia's robotics sector is scaling fast — here's what manufacturers need to know and do first in 2026. In this episode, Nicci Rossouw, CEO of Robotics Australia Group, returns to unpack how the ecosystem has shifted and what's driving the most investable robotics businesses today. We cover: - The National Robotics Strategy and why funding alone doesn't solve the scaling challenge - What field robotics and physical AI mean for Australian manufacturers right now - The common thread behind robotics companies gaining traction: measurable outcomes - Sovereign capability, keeping IP onshore, and the role of collaboration across startups and universities - The first practical steps manufacturers should take to adopt robotics in 2026 Whether you're a manufacturer evaluating automation options, an integrator, or a technology buyer, this episode gives you a grounded view of where Australian robotics is heading. Show notes and links for this episode: https://www.manufacturingtech.au/episode/77-the-practical-robotics-playbook-for-growth-sovereign-capability-and-ai-readiness-with-nicci-rousso/

People in this episode

Host: Shane Williams

Guest: Nicci Rossouw

Topics covered

• robotics
• manufacturing
• automation
• investment
• collaboration
• technology adoption

Keywords

• robotics sector
• manufacturers
• automation options
• field robotics
• physical AI
• sovereign capability
• IP onshore
• collaboration
• measurable outcomes

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Robotics Australia Group, National Robotics Strategy

Places: Australia, 2026

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