Friday 26 May 2017

Defence West not the WA way

Senator for Western Australia, Linda Reynolds welcomes the intent behind Minister Papalia’s ‘Defence West’ announcement but has cautioned copying the South Australian model isn’t the WA way.

“Through successful industry led advocacy over the past 18 months, WA companies will now be building 31 of the 54 new vessels for defence, the first of which has already started in Naval Base.

Senator Reynolds said the approach of the South Australian government through Defence SA has created a shipbuilding industry reliant on government contracts for its very survival.

“In stark contrast, Western Australia’s defence industries have a long track record of success because they export and complement government contracts with commercial work.

“Our shipbuilding, advanced manufacturing and fabrication industries have always been innovative and competitive, that’s why they succeed internationally.

“The WA Defence Industry Council (WADIC) has been successfully working with the Federal Government to raise the profile of Western Australia’s thriving defence industry and make local companies aware of opportunities contained in the 2016 Defence White Paper.

“This industry led approach has successfully made the case for our state as Australia’s second shipbuilding hub which is demonstrated by WA being home to construction of the majority of new vessels for defence, and $100 million in new infrastructure investment for Henderson.

“Just next month the WADIC will be sending its first envoy to the Federal Parliament where leaders of industry and academia will sit down with Commonwealth Ministers and senior decision makers within defence.

“This envoy will further demonstrate the capabilities of West Australian companies and showcase our capacity for future sustainment and maintenance projects.

“I encourage Minister Papalia to travel with the delegation in June and work closely with industry leaders to identify what they need to secure future contracts for WA.

Senator Reynolds will be meeting with Minister Pyne on Monday afternoon to advocate for further infrastructure investment and planning at the Australian Marine Complex, mainly the $300 million second stage of the floating dock and a master planning process of Henderson, taking in HMAS Stirling and associated industrial areas.

Ends – Media Contact – Amy Blom  08 9477 5411