WA Senator Linda Reynolds welcomes the formal establishment of the WA Defence Council.

Senator Reynolds said this demonstrates that the combined advocacy of the WA defence industry has reached a new level of maturity, and will ensure WA continues to be seen as a serious contender for future naval shipbuilding, sustainment and maintenance projects, as well as other opportunities that arise from the defence sector, both domestically and internationally.

“This group has come a long way in the short time that is has been in existence, and it has already made an impact on the national understanding of WA’s capability.”

“In recognition of the need to take action to put WA in the running for upcoming naval tenders, the council had its genesis with Deidre Willmott – CEO of CCI-WA, the Premiers office, and myself last year.”

“As the Council evolved, it quickly became apparent that there are also opportunities for WA across a range of industries in the Defence sector.”

“Now, more than ever that WA is in the best possible position to compete for major defence projects,” she said.

“The customer is here, we have a long track record of delivering bespoke defence and commercial vessels on time and on budget, and we can domestically supply production with raw materials and our workforce.”

“WA has the capacity to deliver major projects as our economy and resources industry transitions from construction to production.”

Senator Reynolds looks forward to continuing her advocacy for WA’s defence and shipbuilding industry and playing an active role in the WA Defence Council.

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