Victoria’s defence manufacturing sector is set for a significant boost, with 17 companies sharing in $1.1 million in grants under the latest round of the Supply Chain Uplift Program.
The funding, announced by Minister Brooks, is expected to support the creation of around 72 new high-skilled jobs and strengthen Victoria’s position as a key centre for defence industry and land systems manufacturing.
Minister Brooks said the program reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening local industry and creating jobs through defence investment.
“We’re proud to support this program, because investing in our defence supply chain means more jobs for Victorians.”
He said the initiative was also about expanding opportunity across the sector and supporting thousands of existing jobs in Victorian defence manufacturing.
The grants form part of Round 6 of the program, the largest in its history, and are aimed at helping local businesses improve capability so they can compete for work linked to major Australian Army acquisition projects, including contracts involving Hanwha Defence Australia.
Matched funding of up to $100,000 per company will be used for initiatives such as industry certifications, facility upgrades, cyber security improvements, and research and development investment.
The Victorian Government said the program is designed to ensure more local businesses can access defence supply chain opportunities, supporting a sector that contributes about $10.9 billion annually and employs more than 29,000 people across the state.
Among the recipients is Advanced Composite Structures, a Melbourne-based advanced engineering firm specialising in composite technology. The company will use its grant to purchase new equipment and expand operations in Melbourne’s west, creating 21 new jobs.
Other successful businesses will also be positioned to compete for defence contracts across major projects in partnership with Hanwha Defence Australia and other industry players.
Hanwha Defence Australia CEO Ben Hudson said the initiative supports a stronger local supply chain and helps create pathways into skilled employment in advanced manufacturing.
Advanced Composite Structures General Manager Paul Falzon said the funding would allow the company to increase its capability and capacity as it continues to grow within the defence sector.
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