Premier

Greg Combet To Continue As Victorian Defence Advocate

13 April 2017

The Andrews Labor Government has reappointed former federal minister Greg Combet AM as Victoria’s Defence Industry Advocate.

Mr Combet will continue to champion the state’s world-class defence sector and promote our interests abroad until the end of 2018.

The role will help strengthen the state’s involvement in major strategic projects such as LAND 400 Phase 2 – which will see the procurement of 225 armoured vehicles for the Australian Army.

Since his appointment in March 2016, Mr Combet has advocated Victoria’s defence industry capabilities to around 160 stakeholders including Commonwealth ministers, Department of Defence officials, Victorian industry leaders and major global defence companies.

He has been directly involved in discussions around securing Victoria’s share of the Commonwealth Government’s $195 billion defence procurement program.

Victoria’s defence sector contributes up to $8 billion to the Victorian economy annually, includes more than 300 businesses and directly employs around 7,000 people.

The state’s strength in defence manufacturing and research and development has been highlighted by the $1.3 billion dollar Commonwealth contract to build the new Hawkei military vehicle in Bendigo, and Lockheed Martin’s decision to locate its first multi-disciplinary R&D Centre outside the United States in Melbourne.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan

“Greg Combet has proven himself to be a great advocate for Victoria’s defence sector – selling our state’s capabilities to the world.”

“He will continue to play a crucial role in helping to secure major contracts – including LAND 400 Phase 2 – which will create jobs and support local businesses.”

Quotes attributable to Victorian Defence Industry Advocate Greg Combet

“The Victorian defence industry is strong and has great opportunities to grow – my role is to help seize those opportunities and the jobs they will generate.”

“I’m honoured to continue in the role of the Defence Industry Advocate – helping to drive our local industry and secure major contracts to support Victorian jobs.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

Was this page helpful?