Issuu

Weld Connect | October 2026

IN THIS ISSUE

WELD AUSTRALIA CONTACTS

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

A Message from our CEO 03 50% Off Training in Queensland 06 Weld Australia Membership Renewals are Now Due 08 Member Directory 09 Enter the Welding Excellence Awards Now Welcome to the Team Weld Australia Partners with the AAWT Free Membership for Apprentices and Students Expressions of Interest: ASME BPVC Section IX Working Group

10 11 12 13 14

INDUSTRY NEWS Breaking News Technology for the Welder’s World from Abicor Binzel New Free TAFE NSW Courses to Upskill Employers Skillaroos Do Australia Proud at WorldSkills International QMEA Tradies for a Day Changes to Welding Fume Regulations from 1 December Weld Australia Joins Additive Manufacturing CRC

16 17 18 20 21 22 24

EVENTS Upcoming Events Tasmania Industry Drinks Night Supplier Open Day and Stainless Steel Welding Masterclass AWS D1.1 Training Delivers World-Class Expertise

25 26 27 28

INDIVIDUAL QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATION Congratulations to all the Newly Qualified Individuals Weld Australia’s Exam Calendar

29 29

COMPANY CERTIFICATION Successful Certification Audits Around the Country Saunders Achieves AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 Certification Combined AS/NS ISO 3834 + AS/NZS 5131 Certification

30 31 31

TRAINING Upcoming Training Courses IWI-B Training Builds Inspection Capability Building Industry Capability through Training Hands-On in the West In-House Training

Weld Connect | July 2026

32 33 34 34 35

NATIONAL OFFICE PO Box 197, Macquarie Park BC NSW 1670 1800 189 900 office@weldaustralia.com.au weldaustralia.com.au Geoff Crittenden Chief Executive Officer 1800 189 900 office@weldaustralia.com.au STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS Ben Mitchell, Director, Strategic Partnerships 0467 419 657 office@weldaustralia.com.au TRAINING Guy Brooks, General Manager, Training Operations 0488 743 322 training@weldaustralia.com.au MARKETING & EVENTS Danielle Pennington, Corporate Engagement Manager 1800 189 900 marketing@weldaustralia.com.au events@weldaustralia.com.au MEMBERSHIP David Choudry, Membership Manager 0417 878 104 membership@weldaustralia.com.au QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATION Luke Nicholls, General Manager, Qualification & Certification 0487 487 985 qnc@weldaustralia.com.au ENGINEERING Simon Doe, Director, Engineering 0490 384 406 engineering@weldaustralia.com.au NEW SOUTH WALES Ashkan Abdibastami, Welding Engineer 0456 850 315 a.abdibastami@weldaustralia.com.au VICTORIA, TASMANIA, SOUTH AUSTRALIA & WESTERN AUSTRALIA Victor Blain, General Manager, Engineering – VIC, TAS, SA & WA 0409 823 991 v.blain@weldaustralia.com.au QUEENSLAND & NORTHERN TERRITORY Ross O’Bryan, General Manager, Engineering – QLD, ACT, NSW, NT 0491 491 888 r.obryan@weldaustralia.com.au

LECTURED ON PRODUCTIVITY, SQUEEZED ON RATES: MANUFACTURERS DESERVE BETTER THAN THE RBA’S BLAME GAME Weld Australia says the Reserve Bank of Australia cannot demand that businesses ‘step up to the plate’ on productivity while delivering a fourth rate hike that makes it impossible for them to invest. Weld Australia has hit back at the Reserve Bank of Australia following their decision in late September to lift the cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.6% (the fourth hike this year and the highest cash rate since November 2011) and at RBA Governor Michele Bullock’s claim that Australian businesses have become “less dynamic” and must “step up to the plate” on productivity. You cannot lecture Australian businesses about dynamism one week and then jack up the cost of their capital the next. The RBA Governor wants businesses

Weld Connect | October 2026

to invest in productivity, which requires new technology, automation and skills. Every fabricator in the country would love to be in a position to do this. But with the cash rate at a 15-year high, four hikes in a single year, and more flagged to come, the money to invest simply isn’t there. You cannot demand that businesses step up to the plate while you’re taking the bat out of their hands. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), headline inflation climbed to 4% in the year to August, up from 3.5%, but underlying inflation, which strips out volatile items, remained steady at 3.6%. The ABS attributed much of the increase to higher petrol prices, alongside housing costs up 5.7% on the back of rising construction costs. Look at what is actually driving inflation: petrol and construction costs. Neither of those is caused by a welding workshop in Western Sydney or a fabricator in regional Queensland. Yet it is those businesses—and their owners and their workers with mortgages—who

are being punished with every hike. Higher interest rates will not produce one extra litre of petrol or build one extra house. What they will do is strangle the investment in technology, training and capacity that actually lifts productivity. The blame for productivity lies elsewhere If the Reserve Bank wants to find the cause of Australia’s productivity malaise, it should look at government procurement, not at the businesses being squeezed by it.

No money to invest, and no incentive either The rate hikes compound an already hostile investment environment for manufacturers, including ongoing uncertainty around research and development incentives.

The Governor says businesses have become less dynamic over the past decade. Let me tell her what has actually happened over the past decade. State governments have sent billions of dollars of fabrication work offshore in pursuit of the cheapest upfront price.

Every hike makes the business case for a new robot, a new laser cutter or a new apprentice harder to stack up. At the same time, the R&D tax incentive settings that are supposed to encourage innovation have been wound back and tangled in complexity.

The multinational primes and head contractors clip the ticket either way. And the hardworking Australian tradespeople at the bottom of the chain get consistently screwed over, no matter who they vote for.

So borrowing costs more, investing returns less, and the work keeps going offshore. What exactly is an Australian manufacturer meant to do? The RBA and the Government cannot have it both ways: you either create the conditions for investment, or you stop complaining about the lack of it.

Here is the bitter irony: when that cheap imported fabricated steel arrives non-compliant, it is Australian welders who repair it, re-weld it and rebuild it. Our members are doing less and less manufacturing. Instead, they are doing the rework. If a project should take 1,000 labour hours but consumes 5,000 because imported product fails to meet Australian Standards, that is recorded as economic activity, but it adds no value. It is inefficiency forced onto compliant Australian businesses, and it is dragging down the very productivity numbers the Governor is lecturing us about. In Weld Australia’s February open letter to the Treasurer, we warned that Australia’s productivity growth is at its lowest level in 60 years, that manufacturing’s share of GDP has fallen to a record low of 5.1 per cent, and that construction output per worker has fallen 25.4%—from $196,800 in 2018 to $180,100 in 2023—despite more people working in the industry.

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

We told the Treasurer in February: this is not a labour problem, it is a systems problem. Rework masquerading as productivity. Procurement that rewards the lowest upfront price. Rules without a referee. Fix those, and productivity will follow. Blame business while bleeding it dry, and it won’t.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Our message to the Reserve Bank and governments at every level is simple. Australian manufacturers are among the most resilient, inventive and hardworking businesses in this country. They have survived energy price shocks, skills shortages, a flood of cheap imports and now the sharpest rate-hiking cycle in a generation. They do not need a lecture from Martin Place. They need cheaper capital, fair procurement, enforced standards and a government that buys what they make. Give them that, and they will deliver all the productivity this country needs.

Geoff Crit enden

CEO, Weld Australia

Centres of Excellence Manufacturing

TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence offer a range of short courses and higher apprenticeships. Learn online and on-demand to upskill quickly and contribute to a smarter, stronger, and greener future in manufacturing.

Enrol today

TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence Weld Connect | October 2026

Specialist courses include: + Supporting your Manufacturing Apprentice + Robotic Welding + Renewable, Sustainable and Circular Manufacturing

131 601 RTO 90003 | CRICOS 00591E | HEP PRV12049

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

Help shape the future of Australian manufacturing

Weld Connect | October 2026

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

Dates TBC

WELD AUSTRALIA MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS FOR 2027 ARE NOW OPEN To all our members, thank you for being a valued part of our community. Your support over the past year has helped us lift capability, quality and safety across the sector, while giving you and your business direct access to the technical expertise, training, certification, advocacy and connections that Australia’s peak welding body provides. Renew early and save 5% Renew your Weld Australia membership by 30 November 2026 and receive 5% off your membership fee. It’s our way of saying thank you for getting in early.

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

The 5% early bird discount applies to existing membership renewals only and to the membership fee only, and cannot be combined with any other discount or negotiated rate. Payment must be received in full by 30 November 2026. Accounts with outstanding balances

SEE WHAT YOUR MEMBERSHIP MADE POSSIBLE Before you renew, take a quick look at what you helped make possible in 2026: advocacy wins, major projects, skills and certification outcomes, and thousands of people engaged through events and training. See the highlights in our 2026 Year in Review.

Weld Connect | October 2026

must be brought up to date to qualify. For individuals, your membership continues to deliver: member rates on training, certification and examinations; CPD pathways and structured upskilling opportunities; free Technical Guidance Notes and access to IIW Commission Papers; exclusive discounts from industry suppliers; Weld Connect newsletter and Australian Welding magazine; and free member-only events across the country. For Corporate Members, your membership continues to deliver immediate, bankable value: credit vouchers for engineering and training services, member pricing across training, certification, exams and events, included engineering consultations, MEM learning resource licenses, event entitlements, and unlimited associate memberships for your employees. RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP NOW

NEED HELP? Need a tax invoice or help with the portal? As always, please reach out to our Membership Manager David Choudry on 0417 878 104 or email membership@ weldaustralia.com.au if you have any questions.

CORPORATE MEMBERS GOLD AML3D APA Delta Electricity (Vales Point) Energy Australia Loy Yang B Power Station Millmerran Operating Company NRG Gladstone Operating Service Stanwell Corporation Limited TRIGONOMICS SILVER Agrecruit ASC Blue Tongue Skills HRL Technology Group Main Roads Western Australia Micron Manufacturing Outsource Institute (Aust) Process & Pipeline Services SRG Global Asset Care Uneek Bending BRONZE 3Way Solutions A1 Metallising Services A & O Engineering Acciona M&E ACT Steelworks A.F. Gason Aflex Allweld Manufacturing Alstom Ancon Building Products Apave Australia APS Industrial Services ARL Laboratory Services ArcStructural BAE Systems Maritime Australia Baker & Provan

Barker Hume Homes Bhullar Engineering Bisalloy Steels Bossong Engineering Boval Engineering Bradken Callidus Welding Solutions Camco Engineering Catten Industries CCR Group Century Engineering Consep Core Inspection Services Coslee Australia Crisp Bros Haywards Cullen Steel Fabrications D&L Engineering DGH Engineering Direct Force Diverse Welding Services Dux Hot Water DVR Engineering Edcon Steel Elphinstone EMH Industries Empire Industrial Engineering Engineering Industries Australia Epiroc FIELD Engineers Fifteen54 Fluid Engineering Foxheat Fredericks Fabrication Fremantle Steel Group Frontline Manufacturing Furphy Engineering GACWheels Mining Global Manufacturing Group GM Poles Gonzalez Steel

Griffin Marine Services GVP Fabricators Halliday Engineering Hanlon Industries Haulmark Trailers (Australia) HiSPEC Fabrication and Construction Services Hilton Manufacturing Hitec Welding HVAC Australia IKAD Engineering Incat Tasmania Ingal EPS iQ Solutions Queensland iScope4Repair Jake’s Steel & Welding Jayben Group JB Specialised Engineering JGF Engineering WA KAW Engineering KOTZUR KS Metal Fabrications LAI Switchboards Laser 3D Lead College Lighthouse Engineering Linkforce Procurement Lucky Strike Welding Macfab Engineering Marand Precision Engineering MC Quality Control Metro Steel Fabrication WA Metzke MG Engineering Midway Metals Monadelphous Group Morgan Engineering MRT Fabrication MTE Munster Services Group

NEACH NEPEAN Engineering OPIE Group Precision Metal Group Precision Oxycut Prince Engineering QMW Industries Queensland Transport & Main Roads QSM Fabrication Ralsto Steel Services RCR Mining Technologies Red Earth NDT RJB Industries Rockpress Roddy Engineering RUD Australia RMW Fabrication and Consulting Samaras Group Santos ServiceStream Maintenance Shadbolt Group Steel Mains Structural Integrity Engineering Studweld International SWA Water Australia TEi Services Telwater TMH Welding & Fabrication TTM Engineering UGL United Pacific Engineering Veolia Ventia Victoria State Emergency Service Victorian Testing & Inspection Services Water Corporation Williams Metal Fabrications WPF Duratec

INDUSTRY SUPPLIER MEMBERS

SILVER Air Liquide Apex Welding Solutions (AWS) Diverseco Lorch BRONZE Gentronics and Onegas Nederman Weldclass W.E.S.S.

Weld Connect | October 2026

SUPPLIER Abicor Binzel Agrecruit AIWER (Australian Institute of Workintegrated Education and Research) Alphaweld Supply Group Applied Ultrasonics International Bulgin Group CIGWELD Colbotic Automation Industrial Laser Solutions Lincoln Electric OLP Robotics Robotic Automation Group Skill Hire WA Smenco Ulbrec Products Welding Guns of Australia (Unimig)

KEEN TO WORK WITH A WELD AUSTRALIA MEMBER? If you’re seeking a trusted supplier, contractor or specialist, we can help connect you with the right organisation for your needs. To request an introduction to one of our members, contact us via membership@weldaustralia.com.au

Our team is happy to assist.

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

GOLD BlueScope Steel BOC Coregas Elliotts Australia Kemppi SFE Group SPW Welding Industries of Australia (WIA)

ENTER THE WELDING EXCELLENCE AWARDS NOW The Welding Excellence Awards exist for one reason: to make sure the people and businesses doing outstanding work in Australian welding and fabrication get the recognition they’ve earned. We recently announced a change to how we deliver on that.

Why we’ve made the change It is a demanding period for our industry. Cost pressures, workforce shortages and skills gaps are real, and for most of our members the priority right now is getting the work out the door.

The State Welding Excellence Awards scheduled for October and November 2026 have moved to early 2027.

We understand that. We also understand that sitting down to write an Awards nomination takes time that a lot of people simply haven’t had this year.

We’re excited to announce that the new dates for our award ceremonies are now confirmed, and tickets are on sale:

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

WA | Pan Pacific, Perth | 22 April

We want the Awards to reflect the full breadth of what’s happening across Australian welding and fabrication. So, we’re giving industry more time. What this means for you If you’ve already submitted a nomination: your submission is safe. It carries forward automatically. There is nothing you need to resubmit, and no further action required.

NSW & ACT | Rydges World Square, Sydney | 19 May

If you haven’t nominated yet: you now have more time to enter. Nominations are now due by Friday 6 November 2026.

We have also extended the nomination closing date to Friday 6 November. For more information on how to enter, click here.

State dates and venues for 2027 are being finalised and will be announced shortly. If you have already booked tickets, they carry forward automatically; there is nothing more you need to do.

Every nomination already submitted carries forward automatically.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Questions? Email events@weldaustralia.com.au

Weld Australia is delighted to welcome Volkan Yakut to the team. Volkan has joined our engineering department as our Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ) Manager and is based in Adelaide. Volkan is a Mechanical Engineer with over 20 years of international experience spanning heavy engineering, defence, manufacturing, power generation, infrastructure, shipbuilding, pressure equipment, oil and gas, piping and technical auditing across Australasia, Europe, and Asia. He holds a Master of Engineering in Manufacturing Engineering and is recognised as a Chartered Professional Engineer. Throughout his career, Volkan has held senior leadership roles including, HSEQ Manager, Operations Manager, Lead Auditor, Fabrication Manager, and Principle/Lead Engineer at major organizations. As an expert in Integrated Management Systems (IMS), he specialises in designing, implementing, and auditing HSEQ frameworks across complex industrial environments and high-risk capital projects. He has successfully audited numerous organisations, fabrication facilities and site installation activities to international standards including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001/OHSAS 18001, ISO 17020/25, ISO 3834, AS/NZS 5131, AS/NZS 1554, ISO 9712, and DIN 2303.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Volkan Yakut, HSEQ Manager

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

Volkan possesses extensive technical expertise in specialised fabrication processes, including welding, protective coating, corrosion control, casting, forging, nanotechnologies, ballistic materials, bolting, asset management, maintenance and precision measurement and calibration technics. Combining advanced NDT certifications with coating inspection credentials and lean methodologies, he actively contributes to academia, accreditation authorities, and industry as a part-time university lecturer, IIW lecturer and authorised examiner, NDT certification lecturer, accreditation technical expert, and AMPP Committee Member.

WELD AUSTRALIA PARTNERS WITH THE AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF WELDING TECHNOLOGY TO BOOST WELDER TRAINING Weld Australia has signed an agreement with the Australian Academy of Welding Technology (AAWT) to establish the new, purpose-built Adelaide facility as its primary training facility in South Australia. Developed by Global Welding Technologies Group Pty Ltd (W.E.S.S.) and supported by Defence grant funding, the AAWT is a state-of-the-art, hire-based training facility featuring fully equipped welding bays, the latest Industry 4.0 welding technology, digital monitoring and traceability systems, premium fume extraction and a modern classroom for up to 20 students. The partnership significantly expands Weld Australia’s training footprint in South Australia at a critical time. Australia faces a projected shortfall of tens of thousands of skilled welders over the coming decade, with demand intensifying as major defence and infrastructure programs ramp up, including the AUKUS nuclearpowered submarine program at Osborne, the Torrens to Darlington (T2D) Project, Northern Water and a pipeline of other nationally significant projects. “This partnership gives Weld Australia access to a genuinely world-class training environment, right in the heart of the state where demand for skilled welders is acute,” said Ben Mitchell, Director, Strategic Partnerships at Weld Australia. “South Australia is home to some of the largest Defence and infrastructure projects in the nation’s history. Between AUKUS, T2D and Northern Water, the state will need thousands of additional qualified welders, and they need to be trained to exacting international standards. The AAWT gives us the modern equipment, technology and infrastructure to deliver high-quality, industry-relevant training at scale, without compromise.”

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

Mitchell said the agreement reflected Weld Australia’s commitment to practical, industry-led solutions to the national skills shortage. “You cannot train a welder for the technologies of tomorrow on the equipment of yesterday. The investment W.E.S.S. has made in this facility, from advanced waveform-controlled welding machines to digital monitoring and traceability systems, means trainees will work with exactly the kind of technology they’ll encounter on defence and major infrastructure projects. That’s what makes this partnership so valuable, for our members and for the nation. The AAWT exists because a South Australian business saw the skills challenge coming and backed itself to be part of the solution,” Mitchell said. “We congratulate David Wilton and the W.E.S.S. team on their vision, and on the support they have secured through Defence grant funding to bring this facility to life.”

Weld Connect | October 2026

IGNITE YOUR WELDING CAREER FREE WELD AUSTRALIA MEMBERSHIP FOR APPRENTICES & STUDENTS

WHO WE ARE

Borcelle exceeded our expectations in

Weld Australia is the peak body representing the welding industry in Australia.

every way. Their team's creativity and

Career Growth Priority access to opportunities and industry recognition. Build your reputation and open doors to new roles and projects.

Community & Mentoring Attend networking events, technical nights, and webinars; connect with peers, experts and employers.

expertise have significantly boosted our A not-for-profit, membership-based online presence, and we've seen a organisation, Weld Australia is dedicated to noticeable impact on our line. providing our members withbottom a competitive advantage through access to industry, research, education, certification, government, and the wider industrial community. Our primary goal is to ensure that the Australian welding industry remains both locally and globally competitive, both now and into the future.

LEARN MORE 13 Weld Connect | October 2026

Discounts on CPD & Training Member rates on training, certification and exams, clear pathways for upskilling to keep your credentials current.

Industry Insights & Advocacy Subscriptions to Weld Connect and Australian Welding, and a strong voice advocating for your profession.

weldaustralia.com.au | membership@weldaustralia.com.au

SCAN THE QR CODE TO JOIN NOW >>>

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

Weld Australia Student and Apprentice Membership is FREE for currently enrolled students and apprentices completing a welding related vocational training course within an Australian TAFE or Registered Training Organisation. As an active member of Weld Australia, you have the power to be part of the collective, to voice your opinion and to influence real change.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST: ASME BPVC SECTION IX – AUSTRALIA INTERNATIONAL WORKING GROUP Weld Australia is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified Australian professionals to participate in the proposed ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX Australia International Working Group.

• •

The Working Group will provide a formal mechanism for Australian industry experts to contribute to the development, review, interpretation and ongoing improvement of ASME BPVC Section IX – Welding, Brazing and Fusing Qualifications.

Applicants should be able to contribute independent technical judgement and represent the broader interests of their nominated category—not solely the commercial position of their employer.

The proposed Working Group will operate under the direction of the ASME BPVC Section IX Committee and in accordance with ASME Codes and Standards procedures. Weld Australia will act as the Australian coordinating body and support engagement between ASME and local industry.

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

Purpose of the Working Group The Working Group will: • Provide Australian technical expertise and industry perspectives to the ASME Section IX Committee. • Review and comment on proposed revisions to ASME Section IX. • Consider technical inquiries, interpretations and clarification requests. • Identify issues affecting the practical application of Section IX within Australia. • Develop proposals for consideration through the ASME codes and standards process. • Support greater consistency in welding, brazing and fusing qualification practices. • Strengthen Australia’s participation in international standards development. • Help align Australian capability with the requirements of major defence, energy, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and pressure-equipment projects.

•

Regulatory compliance and technical assurance. Workforce development, training and qualification systems. Codes, standards and conformity assessment.

Industry Representation To maintain an appropriate balance of interests, participants will be selected across the following ASME categories: • Manufacturer • Laboratory or Testing Organisation • User or Asset Owner • Regulatory Authority • Trainer or Educator • General Interest We are particularly interested in representation from organisations operating across: • Defence and naval shipbuilding • Oil and gas • Energy and power generation • Pressure equipment • Mining and resources • Infrastructure • Advanced manufacturing • Engineering and construction • Testing, inspection and certification • Research, education and vocational training • Government and regulatory agencies

The Working Group will be consensus-based, technically focused and non-commercial.

The initial Working Group is expected to comprise approximately 7–11 voting members, with a minimum of seven members required. Appointments will be based on technical capability, industry experience and the need to maintain balanced representation.

Who We Are Looking For Weld Australia is seeking experienced professionals with demonstrated knowledge of ASME Section IX and relevant experience in one or more of the following areas: • Welding procedure development and qualification. • Welder and welding operator performance qualification. • Brazing and fusing qualifications. • Pressure equipment fabrication and construction. • Welding engineering and metallurgy. • Materials testing, inspection and verification. • Non-destructive examination and quality assurance. • Asset ownership, operation or maintenance. • Engineering, procurement and construction.

What Participation Will Involve • Working Group members will be expected to: • Participate consistently in scheduled Working Group meetings. • Review technical papers, proposed code changes and ballot materials. • Vote on matters considered by the Working Group. • Provide informed technical comments within agreed timeframes. • Contribute to interpretations, clarification requests and proposed revisions. • Participate constructively in a formal, consensusbased standards process.

Weld Connect | October 2026

•

Comply with ASME confidentiality, conflict-of-interest and conduct requirements. Maintain the support of their employer for their participation.

This is a non-commercial role requiring ongoing professional commitment. Participation may also involve interaction with the ASME BPVC Section IX Committee and other international working groups. Selection Criteria Expressions of interest will be assessed against: • Demonstrated technical knowledge relevant to ASME Section IX. • Practical experience applying Section IX requirements. • Experience in codes, standards, qualification or conformity-assessment activities. • Ability to contribute objectively to technical discussions. • Capacity to review documents and respond within required timeframes. • Employer support for ongoing participation. • The need to achieve an appropriate balance of industry interests and experience. Previous committee or standards-development experience is desirable but is not essential where the applicant can demonstrate strong relevant technical expertise.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Application Process • Interested professionals are invited to submit: • A brief statement outlining their interest in joining the Working Group. • A summary of their experience with ASME Section IX. • Their preferred ASME interest category. • A current CV or professional profile. • Details of relevant technical qualifications and industry experience. • Confirmation that their employer supports their participation. • Any previous experience with standards, technical committees or industry working groups. Shortlisted applicants will be asked to complete the relevant ASME Participation Application Form and Member Profile as part of the formal appointment process. For further information, and to submit your expression of interest contact Bruce Cannon (Principal Welding Engineer, Weld Australia) via: b.cannon@weldaustralia.com.au. Expressions of interest must be submitted by 13 November. Participation in the proposed Working Group will provide Australian professionals with an important opportunity to contribute directly to one of the world’s most influential welding qualification standards and help ensure Australian industry experience is represented in its ongoing development.

INSIDE WELD AUSTRALIA

•

AN UPDATE ON AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS

HUNTER TRAIN MANUFACTURING RESTARTS

Pressure equipment Work on the revision of the standards AS 3992 Pressure equipment — Welding and brazing qualification and AS 4343 Pressure equipment — Hazard levels has been completed with both standards being prepared for publication.

An expression of interest (EOI) has opened for manufacturers to design and build the next fleet of NSW suburban passenger trains. The Future Fleet Program is expected to establish a 30-year pipeline of domestic train manufacturing, supporting up to 780 construction workers and approximately 550 ongoing jobs at the future state-owned facility and across supply chains.

Welding safety Due to the rapid uptake of hand-held laser devices in the welding industry, AS 1674.1 Safety in Welding and allied processes—Part 1 Fire precautions is being amended to include requirements for hand-held laser welders, cleaners and cutting machines used in hot work.

INDUSTRY NEWS

A draft of the proposed changes is now open for public comment via the Standards Australia website until 9 December 2026.

Weld Connect | October 2026

The NSW Government has identified a former mine site at Teralba as its preferred location for a new stateowned train manufacturing facility, marking another step towards restoring rail manufacturing in the Hunter region. Planning will now progress at Teralba, subject to further investigations, planning approvals and land acquisition arrangements. The EOI is open until 10 November and is available through buy.nsw.gov.au

TECHNOLOGY FOR THE WELDER’S WORLD FROM ABICOR BINZEL

Their MIG, TIG, laser, and robotic welding torches are some of the best on the market. Ergonomic liquid-cooled and air-cooled models are available to accommodate every task. They also carry a wide range of innovative, one-of-a-kind welding accessories that improve welding performance, whether automated or manual. ABICOR BINZEL takes pride in their products and make them available worldwide, with production facilities in seven countries and a distribution network covering over 50 countries and spanning six continents. ISO 9001 certification ensures their products conform to the highest industry standards, both domestically and abroad. The ABICOR BINZEL Australia and New Zealand office in Melbourne features complete MIG, TIG, and robotic torch customisation and repair facilities. Their sales staff cover all of Australia and New Zealand with extensive knowledge of both our products and the requirements of local industries. ABICOR BINZEL also works closely with their clients to provide customised welding solutions that meet unique plant and manufacturing needs.

Weld Connect | October 2026

With recent changes to regulations regarding welding fume exposure, ABICOR BINZEL is uniquely positioned to enable local companies to bring their workshops up to standard. They have over 50 years of experience in at-source fume extraction, having launched their RAB series of torches in the mid-1970s. Their current xFUME series of torches and fume extractors provides a diverse range of options to ensure compliance with AS/NZS 21904 standards. In-depth emission tests are carried out at the ARCLab in Germany, where filter technologies are evaluated and torch components are put through their paces under the most extreme conditions. Only those who understand exactly how microscopic welding fume particles behave in the air can develop extraction systems that reliably banish this invisible hazard. The knowledge gained at the ARCLab has been directly applied in practice to make the xFUME solutions safer for everyday welding. This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

INDUSTRY NEWS

For over 80 years, ABICOR BINZEL has striven to create the very best in welding and metal joining technology, products, and innovations. The ARCLab, their state-of-the-art research and development headquarters covering 1,200 m² in Giessen, Germany, ensures premium, high-performance products with ultimate user safety and comfort in mind.

NEW FREE TAFE NSW COURSES TO UPSKILL MANUFACTURING EMPLOYERS TAFE NSW has launched six fully subsidised online microskills designed to help manufacturing employers attract, support, and retain apprentices.

INDUSTRY NEWS

The new courses align with findings from the Better Manufacturing Apprenticeship Outcomes Report by the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance, which highlighted that many employers are not aware of the free training available to help them better manage and support apprentices. Delivered online through the TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence, the Supporting Your Manufacturing Apprentice courses are a first-of-theirkind offering for employers across engineering, transport and renewable energy sectors. They provide practical, workplace-focused training to support both new and existing apprentices. The courses place a strong emphasis on inclusion, equipping employers with strategies to better support apprentices from diverse backgrounds, including

Weld Connect | October 2026

women, young people, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Jhye Withers, a Fitter Machinist - Speciality Materials at Gravitas Technologies, recently completed the courses. He says they helped him to build his skills in mentoring apprentices. “Investing in the next generation of skilled workers is critical, so we want to ensure we are doing everything we can to support and help young apprentices succeed.” “The courses were practical, easy to follow, and flexible enough to fit around my work commitments. Because it’s broken into smaller sections, I could complete it without disrupting my day to day responsibilities.” “I would recommend the courses to anyone who supervises apprentices. They offer a range of practical solutions to common workplace challenges and helps create a more supportive environment, which is important for both retention and long-term success.” Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education,

“These free online courses help employers overcome the challenges of attracting and retaining the workers they need, so they can be productive. “The short courses will provide employers with practical strategies to support apprentices from a diverse range of backgrounds through completion of their training and into ongoing employment.” Each microskill in the Supporting Your Manufacturing Apprentice suite focuses on practical actions employers can implement immediately. Topics include mentoring young apprentices, building cultural awareness, and fostering safe, supportive workplaces where apprentices can learn, grow and succeed.

“

Investing in the next generation of skilled workers is critical, so we want to ensure we are doing everything we can to support and help young apprentices succeed.”

Weld Connect | October 2026

Industry leaders have welcomed the initiative. Plasser Australia Production Manager Geoff Owen said employers play a vital role in shaping the next generation of skilled tradespeople. “Apprentices are the next generation of skilled tradespeople, and as employers, we play an important role in setting them up for workplace success,” he said. “Free, accessible, online training is an easy way to equip employers with the skills and knowledge needed to create a more inclusive and productive workplace, critical for attracting and retaining apprentices.” In addition to the employer-focused courses, the TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence offers a range of short, sharp training opportunities including for workers looking to reskill or upskill. The TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence are a joint initiative between the Australian Government and NSW Government under the National Skills Agreement. To learn more about the fully subsided microskill courses, visit the TAFE NSW website. This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Steve Whan said more apprentices are needed to address ongoing skills shortages in the manufacturing sector.

SKILLAROOS DO AUSTRALIA PROUD AT WORLDSKILLS INTERNATIONAL IN SHANGHAI After four days of competition across 64 skills, the world celebrated 1,400 Champions from nearly 70 countries and regions at the Closing Ceremony of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Thousands of people gathered at the Shanghai World Expo Cultural Center to cheer on the Champions, with many more watching the livestream around the world. Gold, silver, and bronze medals were presented to the top performers in each skill, with hosts China topping the medal table. Medals for Excellence were also awarded to Champions reaching world-class standards in each skill. Team Australia’s Skillaroos represented Australia with incredible pride, professionalism and determination. Cooper Thornely finished in 13th place out of 37 competitors and received a Medallion of Excellence in Welding. It was an outstanding opportunity for him to test himself against the best young skilled professionals from around the world, while building international connections and gaining valuable experience along the way.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Weld Australia is proud to have supported Team Australia as part of this journey and congratulate every Skillaroo, expert and member of the wider team on what they have achieved in Shanghai.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Weld Australia was proud to support two recent QMEA Tradies for a Day programs in North Queensland, with workshops hosted by Kirwan State High School and Collinsville State High School giving students a handson introduction to careers in the trades and resources sector. At Kirwan State High School, 21 students and one teacher took part in the workshop, trying their hand at activities including auto electrics, mechanics and welding, learning the importance of teamwork, and engaging directly with industry professionals. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive: 100% of students found the industry representatives engaging and helpful, and 100% reported increased awareness of careers in the resources sector. “I learnt all about the possible pathways and opportunities for trades and possible apprenticeships,” said one student. “Everything explained and displayed was interesting and informing. It was fun and I enjoyed it.” Teachers agreed, with one noting the “hands-on jobs were excellent, rotations were effective, instructors were excellent,” while an industry representative praised the “hands-on real-life experience keeping students engaged and learning. Great day for students.”

Kirwan State High School

Weld Connect | October 2026

Teachers also reported that the event enhanced their teaching skills and awareness of student pathways in the sector, while industry representatives recommended continued company support for the program. At Collinsville State High School, students enjoyed a packed three days in Term 3, with 18 Year 10 students (five female and 13 male) participating in the Tradies for a Day workshop and site tour, and a further 16 students (nine female and seven male) taking part in the Trades and Traineeships workshop. Students engaged enthusiastically with the activities, industry representatives and site tour, with feedback confirming it was a positive learning experience all round. Weld Australia provided its augmented reality welding simulator for student activities at both schools. The cutting-edge machine offers students a safe, realistic introduction to welding—and has quickly become one of the most valued and popular activities on the program. The simulator also brought out some friendly competition. Congratulations to Brock Bakel, who topped the class at Kirwan with an impressive score of 95 out of 100, and to George Pridgeon, who claimed Best Welder honours at Collinsville with scores of 95 and 94—just edging out runner-up Niri on average. With talent like that coming through, the future of the welding trade looks bright.

Collinsville State High School

INDUSTRY NEWS

QMEA TRADIES FOR A DAY: NORTH QUEENSLAND STUDENTS GET HANDS-ON WITH WELDING

CHANGES TO WELDING FUME REGULATIONS FROM 1 DECEMBER 2026: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• •

The regulations regarding weld fume and airborne contaminants will be changing. From 1st December, the Workplace Exposure Standards (WESs) will become Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs).

Importantly, there is a range of materials for which no limit has been set. This category of contaminants are known as non-threshold genotoxic carcinogens (NTGCs) and as their description suggests, can cause genetic damage and may lead to cancer.

The good news is that in many cases, the current limits for total fume including aluminium fume are not changing. From a weld fume perspective, the following time weighted average (TWA in mg/m3) exposure limits over an 8-hour working shift are outlined in the table below. Symbol

Old WES

New WEL

1 (no change)

Chromium VI CrVI

0.05

NTGC

Cobalt

0.05

0.02

Manganese

0.1 (inhalable) 0.02 (respirable)

Nickel

0.1

Weld Fume

1 (no change)

Aluminium

Note that two limits apply to manganese fume exposure. The inhalable component is generally coarse particulate that can be captured by the body’s natural mucus defences, and the respirable particulates are extremely fine particles that can pass deep into the lungs and pass into the blood stream.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Note that: • Manganese can be found in most welding consumables used to weld carbon and manganese steels, and at high levels in some hardfacing consumables. • Nickel is present in low alloy welding consumables and at high levels in consumables used to weld stainless steels and some hardfacing consumables.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Cobalt is present in hardfacing consumables. Reduction in exposure limits also include beryllium (Be) and cadmium (Cd) but these elements are not typically found in welding consumables.

Work Safe Australia advises that airborne contaminants so classified cannot be assigned a protective exposure level due to the limited data available and the nature of their effects. Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6 or CrVI) is one such NTGC and welders may be exposed to it during the welding of stainless steels and hardfacing welding consumables which contain high levels of chromium. Employers (called PCBUs in the regulations) must eliminate exposure to NTGCs where possible, but if elimination is not reasonably practicable, the risk of exposure must be minimised as far as reasonably practicable. What controls are required? Employers should start by referring to the consumable manufacturers Safety Data Sheets (SDS), which detail the hazardous emissions from the consumable in the welding fume. Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) regulations requires that in all cases the hazards of welding be identified by the employer and eliminated where practicable. If not practicable, the risks associated with exposure to the hazard must be minimised as far as reasonably practicable. In the latter situation, the regulations requires that the hierarchy of controls be followed meaning that engineering controls are required before considering the use of personal protective equipment for example. For general weld fume management, Weld Australia recommends:

b) Use engineering controls to effectively capture welding fume at the source as it is generated and provide a good general ventilation system. A suitable overall general ventilation system used throughout the workshop in conjunction with fume capture systems is essential for the protection of personnel working in the vicinity of welding. Accumulation of fumes in areas away from welding or the welding related processes must also be prevented to ensure that co-workers are not exposed to the fume. Fume management equipment such as hooded fume extractors (e.g. fixed, downdraft extraction table, portable) and on-gun extraction systems can remove up to 90% of the fume generated and additional controls to manage weld fume are usually required including a combination of controls. Captured fume should be filtered (see AS/NZS 21904) prior to being exhausted, preferably outside of the workshop in a non-occupied area.

Weld Connect | October 2026

The use of personal protective equipment such as a respirator (e.g. powered air purifying respirator or PAPR) is likely required to be worn by the welder to ensure conformance with the 1mg/m3 workplace exposure limit, especially if the welder’s head is in the plume. PAPRs are known to be particularly effective at protecting the welder including against ozone. PAPRs are not recommended for use in confined spaces. Fume capture and good general ventilation are also essential requirements to protect people working near welding operations. For the welding of stainless steels and when hardfacing, in addition to the use of fume capture equipment, respiratory protection is generally required and PAPRs for example are known to provide effective protection for the welder. Where doubt exists on control effectiveness, the WHS regulations require that exposure air monitoring is undertaken. In addition, if there is a lack of engineering controls in use, it is likely that a regulator will require air monitoring (welding fume assessment) to be performed by an occupational hygienist. For further reading on these issues, please refer to Weld Australia’s Fume minimisation guidelines (TGNSW01) and Technical Note 7 Health & safety in welding. Both documents are available free of charge via the Resources tab on the Weld Australia website. Please note that Technical Note 7 is currently being revised and new edition is currently scheduled for publication in early November. Additional guidance is also available via Weld Australia weld fume hotline 1800 212 988.

INDUSTRY NEWS

a) Substitute a lower fume process or weld procedure. For example: • Optimise the weld procedure to maximise arc stability, minimise spatter and minimise weld fume production. Arc stability is enhanced through the use of an inverter-based welding power source, and, there is limited anecdotal evidence that arc stability for GMAW and FCAW processes is improved through the use of copper-free consumable wires. • For the GMAW process, waveform controls are highly effective at reducing weld fume (up to 80% reduction possible). • For the GMAW and FCAW (including metal cored FCAW) processes, reduce the CO2 content of the shielding gas to minimise the amount of fume generated.

WELD AUSTRALIA JOINS ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING CRC Weld Australia has joined the Additive Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre (AMCRC) as an Associate Partner, in a collaboration designed to connect the nation’s welders and fabricators with the next generation of manufacturing technology. Backed by $57.5 million in Australian Government funding under the Cooperative Research Centres Program, the AMCRC brings together more than 70 partners from industry, research and government to deliver industry-led R&D, skills development and technology commercialisation across four research programs, with 16 collaborative projects already underway. “Additive manufacturing is welding’s next chapter,” said Weld Australia CEO Geoff Crittenden. “Technologies like wire arc additive manufacturing are built on the same metallurgy, the same processes and the same skills our members have spent their careers mastering. This partnership ensures Australian welders and fabricators are not spectators to the additive revolution. They will help lead it.” Under the partnership, Weld Australia will contribute its deep technical expertise in welding engineering, qualification, certification, training, and standards development to AMCRC’s activities; capability that is critical as metal additive manufacturing moves from prototyping into safety-critical production for sectors including defence, maritime, infrastructure, resources and energy.

The partnership creates significant opportunities for Weld Australia’s members, from large fabricators through to regional SMEs, including pathways into collaborative, co-funded R&D projects, access to world-class research partners, and training initiatives that will prepare the welding workforce for advanced manufacturing careers. “For our members, this is a door into a $57.5 million innovation ecosystem,” Crittenden said. “A fabricator in regional Australia with a good idea—a better way to repair a component, a smarter way to build a part— now has a pathway to the researchers, the funding and the expertise to turn that idea into a commercial reality.” The future of metal additive manufacturing will be built on foundations that Australia’s welding industry has spent decades developing,” said Simon Marriott, Managing Director of AMCRC. “Weld Australia brings world-class expertise in materials, processes, standards and skills development that will be critical as additive manufacturing moves rapidly into production applications across a many critical sectors. This partnership strengthens Australia’s ability to turn new ideas into sovereign manufacturing capability and real-world industry outcomes.”

INDUSTRY NEWS

The two organisations are already working together on shared industry initiatives, with the AMCRC supporting Weld Australia’s National Manufacturing Summit, to be held in Adelaide in June 2027, and Weld Australia encouraging members to participate in the Additive Manufacturing Forum 2026 in Adelaide on 28–29 October. “This exciting new partnership will help build sovereign manufacturing capability,” Crittenden said. “It will see industry, researchers and government working together to make sure the products this nation needs, from defence components to critical infrastructure, can be designed, made, verified and repaired right here at home.”

Weld Connect | October 2026

CONTROLLING WELDING FUME WEBINAR

WELD AUSTRALIA WELDING EXCELLENCE AWARDS CEREMONIES

Australia’s welding fume regulations are tightening dramatically from December 2026 – and businesses will be expected to comply and demonstrate the proper application of the hierarchy of control.

Celebrate the best of Australia’s welding industry. The Welding Excellence Awards bring the industry together to recognise outstanding talent, innovation and achievement.

The good news is that, with multiple effective fume control options available, keeping workplaces compliant and workers safe can be straightforward. To that end, this webinar on Controlling Welding Fume is designed specifically to offer practical, expert guidance to welders, fabrication teams, and Health & Safety Managers based on the latest regulatory and standard changes.

It’s your chance to connect with industry leaders, strengthen your professional network, celebrate the people and businesses driving our industry forward, and enjoy a fantastic night out. Come along, make connections and celebrate excellence in welding.

EVENT DETAILS • Date: Tuesday 10 November 2026 • Time: 3:00pm to 4:00pm • Venue: Online via Zoom • Cost: Free to attend

Weld Connect | October 2026

LEARN MORE >

EVENTS

Presented by Apex Welding Safety (AWS), this practical, expert-led session is designed to help prepare workplaces for these regulatory changes and protect workers against welding fume. We will break down the dangers of welding fume, how regulations are changing, the available product control options for welding fume and ozone, and the importance of proper training on the use and maintenance of welding safety equipment. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions and receive expert advice from AWS Welding Fume Specialist Will Norris on the challenges and requirements most relevant to your workplace.

Your ticket includes one hour of pre-dinner drinks and networking, a delicious two-course meal, and house wine, beer and soft drinks throughout the evening. Most importantly, it’s a fantastic night to come together and celebrate our industry.

TASMANIA INDUSTRY DRINKS NIGHT It was fantastic to see Tasmania’s welding, fabrication, and manufacturing community come together at the first ever Weld Australia Industry Drinks Night in Hobart. The strong attendance and engagement made for a great evening of networking, building connections, and discussing the future of our industry. From seasoned fabricators and business owners through to younger tradespeople just starting out in their careers, the room was full of energy and conversation. A highlight of the evening was hearing from Jason Love, who shared the work BOC and South Pacific Welding Group are doing across Tasmania to support customers and help drive capability and growth within the state’s manufacturing and fabrication sectors. His insights sparked plenty of discussion on the night, touching on the opportunities ahead for local industry and the importance of backing the businesses and skilled people who underpin it.

EVENTS

Thank you to BOCand South Pacific Welding Group for their generous prize giveaway, and for helping bring industry professionals together to share insights and strengthen relationships across the sector.

Weld Connect | October 2026

CORPORATE SUPPLIER OPEN DAY & STAINLESS STEEL WELDING & FABRICATION MASTERCLASS A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent South Australia Corporate Supplier Open Day and Stainless Steel Welding and Fabrication Masterclass at WESS in Adelaide. With more than 110 registrations and 14 leading suppliers on site, the turnout was outstanding, and the energy in the room showed how strong South Australia’s welding community is. Our corporate suppliers showcased the latest equipment, consumables, safety gear and automation, and attendees could talk directly with the people behind the products. There were live demonstrations of welding, cutting, finishing and inspection technology in real-world applications. Our Stainless Steel Masterclass with Australian Stainless Steel Development Association (ASSDA) covered the challenges every fabricator knows well, including heat management, distortion control, contamination, finishing and corrosion resistance. The focus was on practical, workshop-ready answers.

Weld Connect | October 2026

EVENTS

Thank you to W.E.S.S. for hosting, to ASSDA for partnering on the masterclass, and to every supplier who brought their gear and expertise, including: ABICOR BINZEL, Agribusiness Recruitment, Air Liquide, Australian Institute of Work-integrated Education and Research (AIWER), Apex Welding Safety (AWS), BOC, South Pacific Welding Group, Colbotic Automation, Diverseco, Elliotts Global Employment Solutions, Lorch, Specialized Fabrication Equipment (S.F.E.) Group, Weldclass, and Welding Industries of Australia.

AWS D1.1 TRAINING DELIVERS WORLD-CLASS EXPERTISE

WELD AUSTRALIA FLIES THE FLAG AT THE AUSTRALIAN STEEL CONVENTION 2026

Weld Australia’s two-day AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code training course, held in September, was a resounding success. It brought together welding professionals from across the industry for an intensive deep-dive into one of the world’s most widely specified welding codes.

Weld Australia was proudly represented at the Australian Steel Institute’s (ASI) Australian Steel Convention 2026, with Simon Doe, Director, Engineering, attending on behalf of the organisation. Held at the Hilton Adelaide from 14 to 16 September, the convention brought together leaders from across the steel value chain at a pivotal time for Australia’s manufacturing and infrastructure future.

Over two full days, attendees gained a working knowledge of the code and how to comply with its requirements, covering certification for welding contractors, inspectors and procedures; visual welding inspection techniques; AWS welding terms and symbols; the development and qualification of welding procedure specifications (WPS) and procedure qualification records (PQR); fabrication and inspection requirements; and stud welding qualifications. Importantly, the course also unpacked the changes introduced in the most recent D1.1:2025 edition—essential knowledge for anyone working to the current code. The course was presented by Cristian Zanfir, Manager of Standards in the CWB Group’s Office of Public Safety. With more than two decades of experience, Cristian brought a rare depth of practical insight to the training. His ability to translate the complexities of the code into real-world application was a highlight for attendees, who valued the opportunity to put their questions directly to one of the field’s most respected authorities. The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the practical focus of the course, the quality of the presentation, and the immediate applicability of the content to their day-today work.

EVENTS

For many, the ability to interpret and apply AWS D1.1 confidently will translate directly into reduced rework, improved weld quality and smoother project delivery.

Weld Connect | October 2026

Under the theme Capability, Strength and Resilience in a Changing World, the program explored how the industry can strengthen domestic fabrication and manufacturing, maintain competitiveness, and respond with confidence to economic, technological and geopolitical change. Sessions across the convention examined practical strategies to build and protect Australian capability, drive investment, skills and innovation, navigate decarbonisation and the energy transition, respond to trade pressures and policy reform, and strengthen resilience across supply chains and global markets. These themes are closely aligned with Weld Australia’s own advocacy agenda. From the fight for a fair go for local fabricators through the fabricated steel safeguards process, to the push for verified compliance through the National Fabrication Authority, to unlocking local manufacturing opportunities in the renewable energy build-out, the issues on the convention floor in Adelaide are the issues Weld Australia works on every day on behalf of its members. The convention also provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen relationships across the sector. Congratulations to the ASI on delivering an engaging and timely convention. Weld Australia looks forward to continuing to work with partners across the steel value chain to build an industry that is capable, strong and resilient.

NEWLY QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS Weld Australia would like to congratulate everyone who qualified in September.

IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING SPECIALIST (IWS) • Anton Kovacev • Brenton Fisher • Daniel Peake • Jason Halemba • Jesse Thompson • Mark Balestrin • Rhianna McHendrie • Robert Brown • Steven Black • William Lockyer IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING INSPECTOR COMPREHENSIVE (IWI-C) • Matthew Lee IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING INSPECTOR BASIC (IWI-B) • Aaron Belton • Ben Kerrigan • Blake Tilbrook • Harry Bennett • Joseph Wright • Lee Arkwright • Liam Golledge • Matthew Mead • Phillimon Mahonye • Sean Frost • Shane Taylor • Yili Sha AS 1796 CERTIFICATE 7 • Monica-Rose Crockford • Todd Broughton • Wil Stasinowsky

AS 1796 CERTIFICATE 8G • Maddisen Ward AS 1796 CERTIFICATE 10 • Ali Talebi Hanzaei • Andrew Brady • Antony Tatkovic • Dillon Boynes • Handip Singh Madahar • James Haseldine • James Stark • Keyvan Ashraf • Kirk Davis • Luke Rogers • Mark Sumner • Matthew Thomas • Michael Tait • Paul Lomas • Peter Ballance • Peter Stupak • Sam Lagana • Samuel Vegter • Tomas Manthey AS 1796 CERTIFICATE 11 • Brenton Wright AS 2214 • Anthony Harwood • Bradley Amsden • Darcy Smith • Hayden Dingle • Jack Williams • Jake Ingles • Jarred Nicholls • John Mezzomo • Liam Hampton • Luke Dixon • Luke Dodge • Martin Andrew • Michael Tomlinson • Nicholas Francis • Phil Bowyer • Scott Dowell • Shane Farrell • Shaun O’Neill

Weld Connect | October 2026

WELD AUSTRALIA’S EXAM CALENDAR Do you need to book an exam through WeldQ? We’ve made the process even easier, with our new exam calendar, which can be accessed via the WeldQ homepage. The calendar includes all exam dates for 2026, making planning ahead as simple as possible. Upcoming exam dates include: • Wednesday 28 October: Re-sit Online Exams • Wednesday 4 November: WTE-B/WTE-S Online Exam • Monday 9 November: National Welding Supervisor Exam - Paper A • Wednesday 25 November: Re-sit Online Exams Lock in 2026 Exam Prices Before They Rise From 1 January 2027, Weld Australia’s examination prices will increase. But there’s good news: candidates can lock in this year’s prices for any exam they plan to sit in 2027— simply by paying before 31 December 2026. Whether you’re planning to sit an inspector, supervisor or other certification exam next year, paying now means you’ll secure your place at 2026 rates and save on the new pricing.

FURTHER INFORMATION For further information about exams and qualifications, simply email our team via: qnc@weldaustralia.com.au

INDIVIDUAL QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATION

IIW INTERNATIONAL WELDING ENGINEER (IWE) • Dharmeshkumar Jariwala

SUCCESSFUL CERTIFICATION AUDITS AROUND THE COUNTRY Weld Australia carried out several successful audits over the last month. Achieving certification is a mark of excellence, demonstrating that companies meet the highest technical and safety requirements, and deliver consistent and compliant outcomes. Weld Australia’s certification audits play a crucial role in helping businesses across the country uphold the highest standards in welding. Rockpress - AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 surveillance, EN 15085 CL1 surveillance and DIN 2303 re-certification audits With over five decades of fabrication excellence, Rockpress brings together craftsmanship, technology, and scale to deliver tailored manufacturing solutions that meet complex and changing industry demands. Their team of skilled professionals has collectively logged over 10,000 hours perfecting their craft. From one-off components to large production runs, every project is

COMPANY CERTIFICATION

Ashkan Abdibastami (Weld Australia) on the far left, and Joseph Genrich (Weld Australia) third from the right, with the Veolia team.

Weld Connect | October 2026

handled with precision and care. Their 16,000m² facility in Brisbane is equipped with advanced CNC machinery, TRUMPF press brakes, 2D/3D laser systems, and custom blasting and coating equipment. Veolia Fabrication and Mechnical Services AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 re-certification + AS/NZS 5131 CC3 certification Veolia Fabrication and Mechanical Services is part of Veolia, a global leader in environmental services at the forefront of ecological transformation. Their fabrications division delivers credible, innovative welding solutions through an enthusiastic, highly skilled and experienced workforce. Their operational philosophy centers on rigorous quality control, lean manufacturing and a commitment to meeting strict project timelines for our major clients. Veolia is proud to have recently achieved re-certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 and new certification to AS/NZS 5131 CC3, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to quality, safety and industry best practice.

SAUNDERS ACHIEVES AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 CERTIFICATION Saunders has achieved AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 certification, strengthening the quality framework that supports its welding and fabrication activities across critical infrastructure projects. The certification recognises the systems, technical expertise and quality controls that underpin Saunders’ welding activities and reflects the business’s continued investment in welding quality, technical governance and the capability of its people. As an Australian integrated infrastructure services business, Saunders engineers, builds and sustains critical infrastructure across defence, government, water, energy, resources and industrial. Across these markets, welding and fabrication are central to the delivery of complex, high-compliance infrastructure where quality, traceability and consistency are critical.

Saunders’ welding and fabrication capability supports work across bulk liquid storage, fuel infrastructure, water infrastructure, structural, mechanical and piping works. The certification builds on Saunders’ longstanding engineering and fabrication expertise and reinforces the systems and capability supporting the delivery of critical infrastructure across Australia.

GET CERTIFIED NOW Reduce costs, save time, and ensure your business meets industry standards with one simplified certification process. Simply email: certification@weldaustralia.com.au

Weld Connect | October 2026

KEY BENEFITS OF CERTIFICATION Achieving combined certification with Weld Australia delivers significant benefits for fabricators and purchasing organisations alike:

COMPANY CERTIFICATION ENGINEERING

Saunders Managing Director and CEO, Angelo De Angelis, said the certification was an important milestone for the business. “This certification reflects the strength of our technical capability, the quality systems we have in place and, importantly, the expertise of our people. It provides our clients with further confidence in the quality and consistency of our welding and fabrication capability as we continue to deliver critical infrastructure across Australia.”

TRAINING

WELDING SUPERVISOR IN MACKAY

ISO 9606 WELDER QUALIFICATION IN MACKAY

AS 2214 WELDING SUPERVISOR ONLINE

Starts 26 October 2026 Welding Supervisors understand the sector’s complex theoretical knowledge, and how it applies in practice. By pursuing a career in this area, you will open yourself up to many new professional qualities including skills like leadership, teamwork, communication, responsibility and problem solving.

Starts 23 November 2026 This program is designed to build the technical knowledge of welding personnel through structured, theorybased learning. It provides a pathway for individuals to gain formal recognition for the welds they already perform, while also offering the opportunity to expand their skills across different weld types and positions.

Starts 20 January 2027 Welding Supervisors understand the sector’s complex theoretical knowledge, and how it applies in practice. By pursuing a career in this area, you will open yourself up to many new professional qualities including skills like leadership, teamwork, communication, responsibility and problem solving.

ENROL NOW

AS 1796 CERTIFICATE 10 ONLINE

IIW WELDING INSPECTOR BASIC (IWI-B)

IIW WELDING INSPECTOR STANDARD (IWI-S)

Starts 20 January 2027 Whether you work in pressure equipment, structural steel, manufacturing, infrastructure, mining or heavy industry, this qualification demonstrates advanced technical knowledge and leadership capability that employers value. Meets the requirements for a Welding Supervisor under AS 1210 and AS/NZS 1554.1.

Starts 2 February 2027 The IWI-B course is a globally recognised International Institute of Welding (IIW) qualification. This course provides general knowledge of welding, inspection theory and application, including: non destructive testing, mechanical and visual inspection techniques, inspection procedures and weld imperfections.

Starts 2 February 2027 his course provides advanced knowledge of welding and inspection theory and application, including NDT, mechanical and visual inspection techniques, inspection procedures and acceptance criteria, identification of weld imperfections associated with pre-production, fabrication, and post fabrication, and more.

ENROL NOW

Need help? Contact our Training team via training@weldaustralia.com.au

Weld Connect | October 2026

FROM HOBART TO MELBOURNE: IWI-B TRAINING BUILDS INSPECTION CAPABILITY IN THE SOUTH

IWI-B training in Hobart

Weld Australia has wrapped up back-to-back International Welding Inspector – Basic (IWI-B) training courses in Hobart and Melbourne, helping a new group of welding professionals take the first step on the internationally recognised inspection pathway. Recognised in more than 40 countries, the IWI-B qualification is the entry level of the International Institute of Welding’s three-tier inspector framework, which progresses through Standard (IWI-S) and Comprehensive (IWI-C) levels. For many participants, that makes it more than a single course: it’s the foundation of a long-term career in quality assurance, inspection and welding coordination. The two cohorts brought a diverse mix of backgrounds into the training room. Experienced welders looking to move off the tools and into inspection roles learned alongside quality personnel, supervisors and engineers seeking a stronger technical understanding of the welds they sign off on. That mix is one of the program’s great strengths: participants learn as much from each other’s real-world experience as they do from the course material.

IWI-B training in Hobart

The timing could not be better for either state. In Tasmania, maritime, defence, energy and resources projects are creating sustained demand for people who can verify weld quality to recognised standards. In Victoria, a major infrastructure pipeline, from transport projects to renewable energy, depends on qualified inspectors to make sure fabricated steel is fit for purpose before it is put into service. In both markets, the message from industry is the same: compliance can only be assured when competent people are checking the work. That is why building inspection capability is central to Weld Australia’s broader mission. Australian Standards are only as strong as the people who verify them, and every newly qualified inspector strengthens the industry’s ability to deliver safe, compliant, first-time-right fabrication.

IWI-B training in Melbourne

Weld Connect | October 2026

TRAINING

Congratulations to all participants in Hobart and Melbourne on completing the training. To register your interest in an upcoming IWI-B course, or to plan your next step to IWI-S or IWI-C, visit our website.

BUILDING INDUSTRY CAPABILITY THROUGH WELDING SUPERVISOR TRAINING Weld Australia successfully delivered Welding Supervisor training in Townsville recently. The training was led by our experienced instructor Joe Sandor, as part of our statewide partnership with Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ). This initiative is a key component of a broader program aimed at addressing critical skills shortages and strengthening welding capability across Queensland’s manufacturing sector, particularly in regional areas. Weld Australia is partnering with MSQ to deliver AS 1976 and AS 2214 Welding Supervisor training and ISO 9606 welder certification across Queensland in 2026. Manufacturing Skills Queensland is funding 50% of training costs for eligible participants, providing a costeffective pathway to build workforce capability and strengthen compliance across welding operations. Funding is available for employees of Queenslandbased manufacturing businesses who meet the training prerequisites and reside in Queensland. Eligible businesses must have fewer than 200 employees and provide details of their workforce size and manufacturing capabilities when applying. This project is proudly supported by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Manufacturing Hubs.

HANDS-ON IN THE WEST: IWI-B PRACTICAL TRAINING IN PERTH Weld Australia recently delivered practical training for the International Welding Inspector – Basic (IWI-B) qualification in Perth, giving Western Australian candidates hands-on experience as they work towards one of the industry’s most respected inspection credentials.

TRAINING

As the Australian representative member of the International Institute of Welding (IIW), Weld Australia delivers the IWI-B program to the international syllabus, combining theory with the practical skills that welding inspection demands. The practical component is where it all comes together: participants put their knowledge to work on real weld samples, undertaking visual inspection, identifying and classifying weld imperfections, taking measurements with inspection gauges, and assessing welds against acceptance criteria—exactly the tasks they will perform on the job. Delivering the training in Perth reflects Weld Australia’s commitment to making internationally recognised qualifications accessible to members and industry across the country—not just on the east coast. With Western Australia’s resources, energy and infrastructure sectors driving strong demand for qualified welding inspectors, locally delivered training means candidates can build their skills without the cost and disruption of interstate travel.

Weld Connect | October 2026