South Australia touts defence industry growth

South Australia is leading the nation’s defence industry growth with the state’s economic contribution up almost 30 percent to $1.9 billion in 2023-24, according to latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). This represents the strongest growth of all states, cementing South Australia’s reputation as the Defence State. ABS Australian Defence Industry Account data shows the gross value added (GVA) by South Australia’s defence industry in 2023-24, was up $425 million on the previous year. The number of people working in the state’s defence industry has also increased by 15 percent, with an additional 1,300, highly skilled South Australian jobs created. Revealing a consistent track record of growth, the value South Australia’s defence industry adds to the national economy has increased year-on-year from $977 million in 2019-20 to $1.9 billion in 2023-24. This represents a 100 percent increase over five years. The state’s share of the national defence industry GVA also experienced the strongest growth of any state, jumping to 16.5 percent from 11.9 percent in 2019-20. Stephen Mullighan said: “South Australia continues to cement its reputation as the nation’s Defence State, with our highly skilled industry delivering enduring value to a complex economy. These latest ABS figures highlight the contribution and growth of our state’s defence sector in delivering capability to the Australian Defence Force, while also adding significant economic value. This contribution is only expected to grow as South Australia prepares for its role building conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines as part of the AUKUS agreement.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]