US defence industry mission to diversify WA’s economy

Minister Paul Papalia has travelled to the United States to sell Western Australia’s world-class defence industry as part of the State Government’s Made in WA plan. Leading a defence industry delegation made up of WA businesses, Minister Papalia will meet with key US defence industry players in Alabama, Connecticut and Washington DC. Travelling Western Australian businesses will attend the Sea Air Space Exposition in Maryland, which brings together industry leaders and top military decision-makers from around the world to share the latest in technology and innovation. The expo provides the opportunity to showcase WA’s defence strengths on the global stage and for small-to-medium-enterprises (SMEs) to meet face-to-face with industry heavyweights. Defence is set to become WA’s second largest industry after mining, with tens of billions of dollars being invested by the Federal Government to create the Henderson Defence Precinct, enhance facilities at HMAS Stirling, establish nuclear-powered submarine sustainment, and deliver continuous shipbuilding. Not only will the State become home to the biggest naval maintenance hub in the southern hemisphere as part of AUKUS, but local defence businesses could also play a role in fast tracking the construction of nuclear-powered submarines in the US. WA businesses already manufacture vital parts of Australian submarines on home soil, and it’s hoped by building links with the US industry, they will become part of the Virginia-class supply chain. The Made in WA plan aims to take the State forward by restoring WA’s manufacturing capability. WA’s defence industry is a key part of this plan and will help diversify the State’s economy and create generations of jobs as the population grows. Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia said: “WA’s defence industry has the potential to strengthen Australia’s relationship with the US through its world-class workforces. Our local businesses can help fast track the construction of Virgina-class submarines – that’s good for us and our AUKUS partners. The purpose of this mission is to showcase our defence strengths on the global stage and build relationships to help our businesses enter the Virginia-class supply chain in the US.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]