The new Geelong Defence Procurement Office, to be based at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds Campus, will boost our defence industry and make sure our state gets its fair share of national defence work.
Premier Daniel Andrews visited Deakin University today to make the announcement, alongside Minister for Industry, Lily D’Ambrosio.
The Procurement Office will market the skill and capability of Victorian and Geelong manufacturers to the largest defence contractors in the world. It’s about growing the manufacturing and defence industries and creating more high skill, high wage jobs.
The Office will also help promote Victoria’s abilities in design and manufacturing, identify opportunities for growth in defence and non-defence businesses, and help Victorian businesses access local and global supply chains and form industry partnerships.
Businesses will be able to draw upon the world-class research capacity of Deakin University. This collaboration will boost the competitiveness of the industry in Victoria.
Victoria’s defence industry has an annual turnover of about $1.5 billion. It includes more than 300 businesses and directly employs about 6,000 people who make equipment and provide services for defence activities.
The Defence Procurement Office will have statewide responsibility and act on behalf of all Victorian-based defence companies. The office can be contacted on 03 5215 6071.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We’re fighting for Victoria’s fair share of defence work and we’re giving Geelong’s industries the support they deserve.”
“The new Procurement Office will be a powerful voice for the future of Geelong and the future of Victoria.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry, Lily D’Ambrosio
“We’ll market the skills of our local manufacturers to the biggest defence contractors in the world.”
“It’s about growing the manufacturing and defence industries and creating more high skill, high wage jobs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine, Lisa Neville
“Geelong is a manufacturing powerhouse, home to innovative businesses and highly skilled workers.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara, John Eren
'This is a great result for Geelong to help lead the way for the defence industry. I am pleased we have been able to deliver this important election commitment.'
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens
“Having the office based at Deakin University will help defence businesses to connect with world-class research and development.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020