Australian National Fabrication Facility Limited
The Australian National Fabrication Facility Limited (ANFF) is a nonprofit organization established in 2007 under Australia’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). It provides open access to micro- and nanofabrication equipment, technical expertise, and process development support to advance scientific research and industrial innovation[1][5].

Overview

ANFF operates as a nationwide network of specialized nodes, each focusing on distinct technological areas such as advanced materials, nanoelectronics, photonics, and nano-bio applications[1][2]. Its infrastructure enables researchers and industries to develop prototypes, refine manufacturing processes, and translate concepts into commercial products[3][5].

Structure and Services

ANFF’s decentralized model includes nodes hosted by universities and research institutions across Australia. These facilities offer direct equipment access or fee-for-service arrangements, supported by over 100 process specialists who provide training, technical assistance, and customized solutions[2][5].

Initiatives

The ANFF-C program provides commercialization support to startups and projects transitioning from lab-scale development to market readiness, helping secure investment and scale production[5]. ANFF also collaborates on cross-disciplinary projects, including sustainable manufacturing and sensor technologies, as evidenced by its involvement in hydrogen-based steel production research and porous silicon applications[2].

Impact

ANFF has become integral to Australia’s innovation ecosystem, supporting advancements in fields such as renewable energy, medical devices, and quantum computing. Its role in lowering barriers to microfabrication has facilitated academic-industry partnerships and the growth of technology-driven startups[1][5].

Governance

As a registered charity, ANFF aligns its operations with national research priorities, emphasizing equitable access to cutting-edge fabrication tools and knowledge sharing across its network[3][4].

[1] https://anff.org.au/about/ [2] https://anff.org.au [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/35b0377e-38af-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd/documents/b68b293b-45c8-e811-a961-000d3ad24282 [4] https://www.education.gov.au/system/files/documents/document-file/2020-12/bcr1400057_anff.pdf [5] https://scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au/profile/anff/