The strategic rationale for a sovereign defence industrial base has been released by the Federal Government, mapping out pathways for maximising support for Australian industry.
The Defence Industry Development Strategy, released today, articulates the defence industrial base requirements outlined in the Defence Strategic Review.
“Australia’s defence industry supports over 100,000 Australian jobs. It is an essential partner in keeping Australians safe at home, secure in the world and employed in well-paid, high skill jobs,” says Federal Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy.
“This strategy will underpin essential reforms that will ensure that critical capabilities are provided to the men and women of the ADF as soon as possible, while also supporting an industry vital to our national security.”
HMAS Perth returns to the fleet. Image: LSIS Richard Cordell / ADF.
More support for businesses
The strategy shows a commitment to better support sovereign manufacturing and innovation, with an intent to better support businesses that want to enter the defence industry.
The strategy outlines new grant programs for businesses and a shift in focus for the Office of Defence Industry Support (ODIS) to deliver on its original intent.
CCIWA hopes better sovereign manufacturing will also improve the export market for defence industry based in Australia.
Focus on collaboration
The new push for industry collaboration should help break down barriers to innovation and boost private sector investment.
The Government has also committed to a new tripartite industry council consisting of Defence, industry and union representatives.
Industrial priorities outlined
The strategy details priorities to help industry align with Defence needs.
These priorities have been separated into Air Force, Navy, Army, weapons production, autonomous systems, battle systems and certification/testing. This is said to be backed up through better communications between Defence and industry.
Support for future work
There is also going to be support for developing pipelines of work, including building a workforce, encouraging procurement from Indigenous businesses and strategic partnerships.
The strategy shows there will likely be a bigger focus on training workforces because of the Austal strategic shipbuilding partnership.
This could provide more opportunities for WA between the private sector and defence industry, including value-adding in different industries.
To be part of WA’s peak business organisation, get in touch via 1300 422 492 or [email protected].
