ONLINE - Monthly Lunch with the RACI Vic Branch Retirees’ Group (March 2026)

Retaining Chemistry Expertise

Australia's chemical industry is navigating a perfect storm of regulatory scrutiny and market volatility. The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals (AIIC) has seen frequent updates in early 2026, including additions and revocations that demand precise compliance. Central to this is the push on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), dubbed 'forever chemicals' for their environmental persistence. Businesses must now report usage volumes and end-uses, with deadlines pressing in the coming months.

This regulatory ramp-up coincides with an aging workforce. Data from the Office of the Chief Scientist shows a growing proportion of STEM-qualified Australians over 45, particularly in vocational education and training (VET) sectors. As baby boomers retire, industries risk losing decades of hands-on knowledge in areas like chemical safety and process optimization.

Economic pressures compound the issue. The idling of Albemarle's Kemerton lithium hydroxide plant, announced in February 2026, stems from global oversupply and low prices. This facility was set to produce 22,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent this year, representing a major slice of Australia's output. The move affects hundreds of jobs and highlights reliance on foreign processing, with China dominating the market.

Less obvious tensions arise in knowledge transfer. While migrant engineers could fill gaps, barriers like local experience requirements and visa hurdles persist, as noted in Engineers Australia reports. Indigenous representation in STEM remains low at 0.5% for university qualifications, missing opportunities for diverse perspectives. Trade-offs include balancing retiree retention through flexible roles against injecting fresh talent for digital advancements.

Networks play a subtle yet critical role in mitigating these risks. Informal connections allow for mentoring and archive preservation, ensuring historical data on chemical behaviors informs future decisions. In a field where errors can lead to environmental disasters or financial ruin, such continuity is invaluable.