A fern spike is the occurrence of a large, temporary increase in the number of ferns relative to other plants after a major extinction event. We believe that digital manufacturing technologies can lead to a spike in new Australian products. Unlocking this opportunity will require the reduction of friction between makers, businesses and those wishing to invest in growth. Increasingly, the ecosystems tying these parties together are themselves candidates for intelligent automation - creating self-reinforcing efficiencies and novel investment pathways. Success will allow Australian manufacturers to close the gap on international competitors - transforming existing supply chains and opening the way for better products, manufactured locally, at a competitive cost. Our vision is to be a catalyst for Australian innovation, harnessing the power of Industry 4.0 technologies to unlock opportunity and benefit makers, businesses and investors in manufacturing.