Former Federal Minister Greg Combet will champion Victoria’s world class defence capabilities in a new role as the state’s Defence Industry Advocate.
Mr Combet brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of defence industries to the role, having served as a former Federal Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science.
Victoria’s defence sector contributes up to $8 billion to the state’s economy annually. It includes more than 300 businesses and directly employs around 7,000 people who make equipment and provide services for defence activities.
The Andrews Labor Government has identified defence technologies as a key growth sector to drive Victoria’s economy and create new jobs. Appointing a Defence industry Advocate is an important step to help achieve that growth.
As the Defence Industry Advocate, Mr Combet will:
represent Victoria on defence industry matters and be an identifiable champion of the industry
advocate for Victoria’s defence industry to key stakeholders nationally and internationally
identify opportunities for Victorian Government support and assistance to businesses and organisations to secure significant economic value for Victoria
provide strategic advice on defence industry related issues, particularly on actions to grow and sustain Victoria’s defence industry in the short, medium and long terms
engage as required with the media in the promotion of Victoria’s defence industry
Mr Combet will finish work with the South Australian Government before commencing the role in April 2016 for an initial 12 month period.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry Lily D’Ambrosio
"As Defence Industry Advocate, Greg Combet will be working to secure opportunities for Victorian defence businesses and promoting the state’s defence manufacturing capability both in Australia and around the world."
"We are the largest defence manufacturing state in Australia with 7,000 Victorians making equipment and providing defence services. Appointing a Defence Industry Advocate will help grow the sector even further and create new jobs."
Quotes attributable to Victorian Defence Industry Advocate Greg Combet
"I welcome the opportunity to represent Victoria in this role. I will work hard with all stakeholders to secure defence industry jobs and investment for the State."
"The recent Defence White Paper released by the Commonwealth Government presents opportunities for Victoria, particularly in defence technology. Securing a fair share of this work in the future submarine and naval frigate projects will be an important priority."
Reviewed 19 August 2020