Media Release
Queensland could be home to a new munitions testing range after the Palaszczuk Government launched an investigation into a suitable site.
Deputy Premier and State Development Minister Steven Miles made the announcement today at Land Forces 2021, the Asia-Pacific’s pre-eminent showcase for land defence.
“A Queensland munitions test range would support commercial users to innovate and help develop a truly sovereign capability in future guided munitions development and manufacture,” he said.
“Parts of Queensland are potentially suitable to develop support facilities and infrastructure for munitions testing, storage, disposal, maintenance and logistics.
“These businesses would become part of this new supply chain, and that means jobs for Queenslanders.”
Mr Miles said the first step is to assess investment viability and to engage with the ADF and defence industry.
“The Australian Government wants to improve sovereign capability and support the future needs of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as it seeks to maintain regional stability.
“Here in Queensland, we are building on our strong industrial base and world-class capabilities to create an additional 3,500 jobs in the defence industry sector by 2028.
“Queensland is already home to Rheinmetall Defence Australia’s $170-million Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence, or MILVEHCOE, the most advanced military vehicle manufacturing facility in Australia.
“And while we’re in a great place now for defence industries, we have a clear path forward too.
“Whether it’s building combat reconnaissance vehicles in South East Queensland, shell forging in Maryborough, sustaining naval vessels in Cairns, or supporting the construction of new and expanded training ranges near Rockhampton and Townsville, Queensland is the front line for our defence industry.”
