Overlooked industry could unlock billions for Australia

Key points

• Researchers say Australia could gain a multibillion-dollar economic boost by 2040 by supporting semiconductor technologies, and are calling for government help. The Semiconductor Sector Service Bureau will release a roadmap with recommendations on Thursday.
• Its chair, David Skellern, said several Australian companies are already doing world-competitive work with little support. Modelling by Deloitte put the potential gain at $5.3 billion, while leaving constraints unaddressed could cost about $14.7 billion.
• A spokesperson for Industry and Innovation Minister Tim Ayres said the government recognises the sector's importance.