Manufacturing and construction jobs are expected to increase in Western Sydney following a $508 million investment by the Albanese Government in two defence infrastructure projects linked to Australia’s guided weapons and explosive ordnance manufacturing capability, according to the Australian Department of Defence.
In a news release, the Department said the projects form part of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) plan and involve the redevelopment of facilities and the construction of new explosive ordnance storage at Defence Establishment Orchard Hills, with more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs anticipated across manufacturing, construction and supply chain activities.
Hansen Yuncken has been contracted to deliver a $298 million upgrade of Orchard Hills facilities, including security, infrastructure, and new training and working areas.
Construction is expected to be completed in early 2029 and is forecast to generate around 600 direct jobs, including roles for engineers, plant operators and construction tradespeople.
A separate $210 million contract awarded to ADCO Constructions will deliver guided weapons and explosive ordnance storage buildings, with completion expected in late 2027 and around 300 direct jobs created.
The Defence Department said a further 1,400 indirect jobs are expected across manufacturing-related supply chains, including steel and concrete production, materials supply, fabrication, logistics, design and office fit-outs.
Together, the projects are expected to contribute about $500 million to the New South Wales and Western Sydney economy through local subcontractors, suppliers and service providers.
Both contracts include workforce participation targets covering Indigenous employment, apprentices and women in construction, as well as procurement commitments aimed at supporting local industry. The Orchard Hills base currently employs around 700 Defence personnel and contractors.
The investment forms part of the government’s commitment of up to $21 billion under the GWEO plan, which aligns with priorities outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy to strengthen Australia’s guided weapons and explosive ordnance manufacturing capability.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the projects reflect a broader focus on domestic manufacturing capacity.
“The Albanese Government is delivering a defence future made in Australia and creating thousands of well-paid jobs for locals with this major investment in infrastructure that is critical to our national security,” Conroy said.
He added that the works support longer-term manufacturing objectives. “This is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to establish a sovereign missile manufacturing industry which will make Australia more self-reliant and ensure the ADF has what it needs to keep Australians safe,” he said.
