The Australian government said Tuesday (14 July) that it has signed an agreement to develop the new Defence and Maritime Innovation and Design Precinct in Launceston which will create hundreds of jobs for Tasmanians. Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said the agreement between the Defence and the University of Tasmania (UTAS) outlined a three-year programme that will expand the capability of the Australian Maritime College (AMC).
“I’m pleased to deliver this funding to develop the Defence and Maritime Innovation and Design Precinct at the University’s Newnham Campus in Launceston,” Reynolds said. “This new precinct will foster maritime-specific solutions as well as a broad range of science and technology capabilities, drawing academics from across the country to support Defence Science and Technology.”
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said it is critical the country harness the skills, talents and expertise of the entire innovation network to deliver the best possible outcomes for Defence and Australia more broadly. “Launceston has long been considered a hub of excellence in maritime engineering and innovation,” Price said.
“This development will help preserve the AMC’s role as our national maritime institute, ensuring the needs of both civil and Defence maritime industrial sectors are served.”
Federal Member for Bass, Bridget Archer, said the partnership shows a significant investment in Tasmania and more specifically in the continued expansion and development of UTAS. “This will create nearly 60 local jobs during the construction program, and it’s estimated the initiative will create over 150 new jobs in the region each year,” Archer said.
“It’s great news for our local economy, and will drive defence-related research and development projects from right here in Launceston.”
More information on the Defence Science Partnerships programme can be found here.
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