Investment in Defence industry creates almost 4,000 extra jobs

Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reaffirm the economic benefits of the government’s investments in growing the country’s defence industry. The Australian Defence Industry Account (ADIA) data for 2022-23 shows the contribution from Australia’s defence industry to the national economy grew by 4.1 percent on the previous year. The number of people directly employed in the defence industry grew by 3,800 jobs, an increase of 6 percent, with 2,000 jobs added in New South Wales. When taking into account jobs in the defence industry supply chain, our defence industry supports more than 100,000 jobs across Australia. These figures underscore the importance of the Government’s commitment to growing an innovative, resilient and competitive defence industry that equips and sustains our Australian Defence Force, creates local jobs, and supports the Australian economy. The ADIA reports on key economic indicators relating to the direct economic contribution of defence industry to the Australian economy. It is based on analysis of firms contracting directly with Defence and contributes to the government’s understanding of the defence industry by providing consistent and robust metrics. Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy said, “Australian Bureau of Statistics data showing almost 4,000 direct jobs were added in the defence industry demonstrates that the Government’s positive plan to grow Australia’s defence industrial base is working. The defence industry is an essential partner in keeping Australians safe at home, secure in the world. This is a very good result and underscores the unwavering commitment on the part of the Albanese government to support this critical industry and create jobs is paying dividends. I look forward to continuing to deliver a greater partnership between Defence and industry, developing the sovereign defence industrial base we need for our national security, as set out in the Defence Industry Development Strategy.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]