Stainless steel has experienced remarkable growth over the past century, establishing itself as one of the largest industries worldwide. Since 1950, production has soared from 1 million tonnes to over 58 million metric tonnes in 2021, reflecting an impressive compound annual growth rate of 5.8%/ This versatile alloy has transitioned from an exotic specialist alloy to an everyday material, used in a wide range of applications and high-quality products.
In response to the upward trend of stainless steel, the Australian Stainless Steel Development Association (ASSDA) was established in 1992 with the aim of harnessing and addressing the industry's growth in Australia. Today, this objective remains at the core of ASSDA's mission. By promoting, educating, and training industry professionals, contributing to standards development, and providing technical expertise and fabricator accreditation, ASSDA actively fosters the understanding and use of stainless steel.
Since 1992, ASSDA has overseen the more than doubling of the market for stainless steel in Australia, with apparent consumption reaching 135,000 tonnes at its peak in 2003. At the end of the 2021/2022 financial year, apparent consumption was reported at 112,913 tonnes.
Without the presence of a local stainless steel mill, Australia is a project-oriented market. The industry must focus on excelling in quality and service, while addressing the perception of higher cosst when compared with other materials. The promotion of stainless steel as the material of choice and its life-cycle and sustainable benefits is important to support this, and ASSDA plays a critical role in facilitating the dialogue between materials decision makers and the industry it represents.
ASSDA strives to cultivate an innovative, proactive and member-responsive culture. The Association's continued success is made possible by the invaluable support of its 160+ Member organisations, who work with ASSDA to grow and strengthen the market for stainless steel in Australia.
VISION
The essential association for people and organisations working together and collaboratively striving for a sustainable stainless steel industry and future in Australia.
MISSION
To foster the understanding and use of stainless steel by developing the competence and efficiency of the industry through promotion, education and training, the provision of adequate technical advice and industry fabricator accreditation.
VALUE PROPOSITION
Support, grow and defend the market for stainless steel.