Victorian maritime defence firms are seizing the spotlight at the Indo Pacific 2023 International Maritime Exposition, with 37 manufacturers showcasing their maritime and naval defence products to global industry leaders.
The three-day expo marks one of the major industry events where the Victorian Government is championing the state’s defence industry, the government said in a news release.
Victoria has also secured the rights to host the biennial Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre starting in 2024.
Aside from supply chain enterprises, Victoria said it is a preferred location for prominent international corporations like BAE Systems, Boeing, Hanwha, Leonardo, Lockheed Martin, Moog, Saab, and Thales.
In an effort to further bolster the sector, the 2023/24 Victorian Budget has earmarked $4 million to support defence and space companies in securing major contracts.
Additionally, the $10 million Victorian Land Systems Fund will assist local businesses in winning work within Hanwha’s supply chain.
Last month, Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles officially launched the Victorian Defence and Space Network, an initiative backed by the Victorian Government and delivered by the Australian Industry and Defense Network.
This free membership network provides industry insights and connections to both domestic and international defence and space supply chains, with a strong focus on job creation for Victorians.
Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins expressed that Victorian businesses are well-positioned to capitalise on the fresh prospects arising from the Commonwealth Government’s commitment to AUKUS.
She emphasised that Indo Pac serves as a platform for our manufacturers to demonstrate their capabilities to an international audience.
Furthermore, she conveyed her enthusiasm about representing the state at Indo Pac.
“I’m excited to be representing our state at Indo Pac – Victorian businesses are leaders in this sector, with advanced manufacturing expertise, world-class research and a highly skilled workforce,” Minister Hutchins noted.
