Queensland’s defence manufacturing sector will be showcased to an international audience after the Queensland Government secured the return of Land Forces to Brisbane in 2030.
In a news release, the Queensland Government said the event, described as the Southern Hemisphere’s largest land defence expo, is expected to bring thousands of delegates from Australia and overseas and provide opportunities to connect local industry with global defence markets.
The biennial event brings together defence, government, industry and academic representatives to showcase technologies, develop partnerships and explore future defence capabilities.
According to the Queensland Government, Land Forces 2030 will highlight the state’s capabilities in defence manufacturing, supply chain development, advanced technologies and sovereign industrial capability, while supporting investment and economic activity.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the event would reinforce Queensland’s position in the national defence industry.
“Securing Land Forces 2030 is a major coup for Queensland and recognition of our state’s growing importance to Australia’s defence future,” Bleijie said.
“Queensland will give the event the stability and support from Government it needs and showcase the state’s world-class defence and manufacturing capabilities on the global stage.”
The government said it will also have first right of refusal for Land Forces 2032. The event is scheduled to be held in Victoria in 2028.
The Queensland Government has identified defence as a priority growth industry and said its Defence Q initiative is intended to help businesses invest, establish and expand in the state.
The specialised team works with industry on connections to government, strategic partners, supply chains, locations and investment opportunities, including in advanced manufacturing, testing and evaluation, and high-tech defence systems.
The government also pointed to its $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund, saying it has unlocked more than $193 million in investment for defence projects and created more than 2,470 jobs.
“Land Forces is more than a conference. It will drive investment, support local jobs and strengthen Queensland’s position as a leader in Australia’s defence industry,” Bleijie said.
AMDA Foundation CEO Justin Giddings said the organisation welcomed Queensland’s support for the 2030 event.
“Land Forces has grown into a globally recognised event that showcases capability, opens doors for industry and helps build the relationships needed to turn opportunity into practical outcomes,” Giddings said.
The Queensland Government said securing the event forms part of its broader efforts to strengthen sovereign capability and attract defence investment to the state.
