South Australian veteran-owned companies ARES Armaments Australia and Aimpoint have signed an agreement to expand workforce solutions for defence manufacturing in the state.
The partnership, announced at the Avalon Airshow, focuses on supporting the domestic production of guided weapons, explosive ordnance, and munitions, the SA Government said in a news release.
Projects under the agreement include establishing a Certificate IV in Explosive Ordnance Manufacture, developing an apprenticeship program, implementing recruitment strategies, enhancing skill development in partnership with industry, and coordinating access to training facilities.
The collaboration is designed to support ARES Armaments Australia’s expansion of its regional manufacturing facility, creating additional employment opportunities for local veterans.
ARES plans to leverage the skills and experience of transitioning Australian Defence Force personnel to strengthen the country’s sovereign defence capabilities.
South Australian Treasurer and Minister for Defence Industries Stephen Mullighan said the initiative would secure local manufacturing while recognising veterans’ capabilities. “This partnership will not only secure the manufacturing of explosive ordnance and munitions in SA, it also recognises the vast capabilities of our veterans, by creating employment pathways,” he said.
Joe Szakacs, South Australia’s Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, described the collaboration as a strong example of local veteran-led innovation. “Increased employment opportunities for veterans to apply their diverse skillset in our community will only lead to a stronger workforce in South Australia,” he said.
ARES Armaments Australia CEO Jason Murray highlighted the importance of establishing a regional workforce for explosive ordnance manufacturing. “This first-of-its-kind partnership is integral to ARES establishing a regional South Australian workforce for explosive ordnance manufacturing. It ensures that ARES can deliver a truly sovereign GWEO capability – not years into the future, but within the next 12 months,” he said.
Aimpoint General Manager of Apprenticeships and Training Adam Levi added that the initiative would provide sustainable career opportunities for veterans.
“This partnership will provide long-term career opportunities for veterans transitioning from the Australian Defence Force, as well as a regional workforce, supporting a sustainable and sovereign industrial capability,” he said.
The South Australian Government has emphasised the initiative as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure the state’s defence industry has the workforce necessary to deliver key projects.
