The Western Australian Government has identified five preferred proponents for its Western Defence Forge development, a proposed defence manufacturing hub aimed at expanding advanced manufacturing capabilities, attracting investment and creating local jobs.
In a news release, the Cook Labor Government said Babcock Australasia, OQ Technology and AROSE, Thales Australia, NIOA and Honeywell would progress towards signing memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with the State Government.
The agreements will establish a framework for collaboration and further discussions on how the companies could contribute to local industry participation, workforce development and supply chain opportunities.
According to the WA Government, the proponents were selected through a market engagement process that attracted 179 submissions, including 118 from WA-based businesses and 41 from international operators.
Their areas of expertise include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, autonomous systems, guided weapons and explosive ordnance, communications, space and defence infrastructure.
WA Premier and Defence Industries Minister Roger Cook said the project was intended to capture economic opportunities associated with the AUKUS program and strengthen the state’s defence industry.
“The strong local, national, and international response to the Western Defence Forge shows there are significant business opportunities available in Western Australia’s defence industry,” Cook said.
He said the development would bring industry, researchers and innovators together to help local businesses expand their capabilities and generate investment and employment.
Minister Assisting the Defence Industries Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said expanding local production would support workforce development and Australia’s sovereign capability.
“Building more things in Western Australia means creating skilled jobs for the future, growing local industry and strengthening Australia’s sovereign capability,” Sanderson said.
The government is also discussing the development with other potential tenants and will continue working with the five preferred proponents to develop their proposals.
The announcement follows the launch of the Western Defence Forge Network, which is intended to connect WA businesses with major defence industry participants, projects and supply chain opportunities.
