The Australian Government has underscored Queensland’s central role in building Australia’s sovereign defence capability, with Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy outlining major investments in advanced technologies and manufacturing during an address to the Queensland Media Club.
Minister Conroy said the government is increasing defence spending by $57.6 billion over the next decade, the largest rise since the Second World War, with $10.6 billion to be invested over the next four years.
He said the focus is on accelerating the delivery of capabilities and strengthening Australia’s defence manufacturing base.
“Building a sovereign defence industry and ecosystem is at the heart of our efforts, as is Queensland’s defence industry,” Conroy said. “This is the best way to ensure a Defence future made in Australia, by Australians.”
The Minister highlighted the role of local manufacturers, including companies such as Haulmark and Holmwood Highgate, which supply Rheinmetall’s Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence at Redbank, and Queensland firms contributing to hypersonics research and naval sustainment.
Conroy confirmed that Australian companies AMSL Aero, Grabba Technologies and Boresight had delivered 300 drones to the Australian Army, following contracts last year to scale up production.
He said more than $10 billion has been allocated for drone and counter-drone technology over the next decade, with $1.3 billion set aside for counter-drone acquisition alone.
“This project is both a benchmark and a blueprint for how we will deliver speed to capability in the future, and SMEs are at the heart of it,” he said.
The Minister also pointed to the locally manufactured MQ-28A Ghost Bat, the first military aircraft to be designed, engineered and produced in Australia in more than 50 years.
He said more than 200 Australian companies are contributing to the program, with 70 per cent of the project being delivered domestically.
“Queensland companies like Ferra, Microelectronic Technologies, B&R and Coastal Aviation are critical to the success of the Ghost Bat initiative,” Conroy said. “If we take it to the next stage – which is full production – it will be built right here in Queensland.”
He said Queensland’s defence industry contributes more than $1.2 billion to the national economy, with continued growth expected through exports, AUKUS collaboration, and investments in infrastructure such as upgrades to HMAS Cairns, Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Townsville.
“The Government is absolutely committed to making the most of Defence investments for the workforce,” Conroy said. “That includes apprenticeships, training and new opportunities in defence manufacturing.”
Conroy said the Albanese Government was re-elected with a clear mandate to accelerate the delivery of defence capabilities and ensure Australia is better prepared for future challenges.
“We are committed to a defence future made in Australia because that will make the nation more prepared and more resilient,” he said.
