Tasmania committed to backing local manufacturing, defence industry— Minister Ogilvie

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Hanwha Defense Australia’s Redback IFV Image credit: Hanwha Defense Australia

Minister for Advanced Manufacturing and Defence Industries Madeleine Ogilvie said the Tasmanian government is committed to supporting the local manufacturing and defence industry so businesses can cement their positions as world leaders. 

The Tasmanian Government recently unveiled the Advanced Manufacturing Plan 2024 and the Tasmanian Defence Industry Strategy 2023, which are expected to create thousands of jobs across the state. 

“Tasmanian companies have already exceeded the goals set out in the Defence Industry Strategy, with more than $129 million in defence-related contracts over the last three years – a testament to the quality products and technology our State has to offer,” Minister Ogilvie said. 

More than 50 defence supply contracts have been awarded to Tasmanian companies in 2021 and 2022, which injected around $75 million into the local economy. 

Ogilvie added that the recent success of Tasmanian businesses as part of the Hanwha Defense Australia LAND 400 Phase 3 project will contribute over $100 million to the Tasmanian economy and secure more than 50 new jobs. 

“Our strategic, economic and technological environment has changed since we developed our previous strategies, and it is important for our continued success that these changes are considered as we develop the next,” the minister said. 

“These developments include the recent and ongoing technological developments in robotics, software and communications technology, artificial intelligence, cyber security, and other advanced fields which are changing the competitive landscape, risks and opportunities for manufacturers.”