A NEW program is transforming Queensland workers into specialists who manufacture life-changing prosthetic limbs and orthotic devices.
Students are mastering advanced carbon fibre and plastic fabrication techniques through a groundbreaking training program that establishes the blueprint for formalising Prosthetic and Orthotics (P&O) manufacturing training in Australia.
Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) has partnered with PARTEC (Qld) Pty Ltd—Queensland’s specialist advanced manufacturing training provider—to deliver the cutting-edge training that prepares individuals to create products that restore mobility, independence, and quality of life.
The program fills a significant training gap, delivering two industry-specific streams: advanced carbon fibre device manufacturing and specialised plastics orthotics fabrication—neither currently available through formal qualifications.
MSQ chief executive Kris McCue said the program was a perfect example of Queensland’s unique manufacturing strengths.
“We have the advanced manufacturing capability, the healthcare sector connections, and now we’re supporting specialised training pathways. This positions Queensland as the national centre of excellence for prosthetics and orthotics manufacturing.”
“MSQ is funding this program because it represents more than just upskilling local workers—it’s about establishing Queensland’s competitive advantage in a high-value, specialised manufacturing niche that serves the healthcare sector nationally.
PARTEC chief executive Roger Cater said the program fills a significant gap in Australia’s training landscape.
“The prosthetics and orthotics manufacturing sector has been operating without formal, specialised training pathways.
“Manufacturers have been developing skills in-house, but there’s been no recognised qualification, no standardised approach, and no clear career pathway for workers entering this field.”
“What we’re doing in Brisbane could establish the national standard—creating a formal apprenticeship pathway and positioning Queensland as the go-to destination for P&O manufacturing training across Australia.”
The participating businesses—Oapl, ALA Prosthetics, and TAAP Fabrication—manufacture customised prosthetic and orthotic devices—highly technical products requiring precision engineering, advanced materials knowledge, and stringent quality standards.
TAAP Fabrication chief executive Andrew Holland said the program would transform capability in the sector.
“The quality of prosthetic and orthotic devices depends entirely on manufacturing precision and materials knowledge,” Andrew said.
“Having access to formal training in these specialised techniques strengthens our capability and helps Queensland manufacturers maintain our competitive edge in this sector.”
About PARTEC
PARTEC (Qld) Pty Ltd is Queensland’s specialist registered training organisation for advanced manufacturing, operating as a Centre of Excellence since 1991. PARTEC delivers nationally recognised qualifications in composites fabrication, polymer processing, and related advanced manufacturing disciplines.
About TAAP Fabrication
TAAP Fabrication is a Brisbane-based specialist in thermoplastic orthotics manufacturing with over 20 years of experience delivering custom orthotic solutions. The company’s expert technicians manage large-scale fabrication workshops, producing products that meet rigorous standards for quality, precision, and durability.
About Manufacturing Skills Queensland
Manufacturing Skills Queensland (MSQ) is an independent body established to support Queensland manufacturing through workforce development, skills planning, and targeted training investment that builds capability and competitiveness across the state’s diverse manufacturing sector. This program is funded through Manufacturing Skills Queensland’s Annual Training Plan for industry.
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