The Defence Industry Policy Statement released by the Australian Government demonstrates an understanding of what is essential to good defence industry policy and will benefit defence manufacturers, according to the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group).
According to Ai Group chief executive, Heather Ridout, the statement addresses core issues affecting the manufacturing industry and its growing relationship with defence including:
• An effective and active long-term partnership between Defence and industry;
• A long-term approach to planning and developing Australia's defence capability needs;
• A priority on developing the big links between industry capability and skills development; and
• The potential the defence area has to spawn globally competitive and innovative companies and to integrate defence industry policy into Australia's broader manufacturing strategy.
The Statement – Building Defence Capability: A Policy for a Smarter and More Agile Defence Industry Base, was released by Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, at the Australian Industry Group’s Canberra office.
The launch included representatives from Ai Group's Defence Council, the peak defence industry group.
"Now more than ever the Australian Defence Force (ADF) requires the right equipment, at the right time, in the right amount to enable it to meet its demanding operational requirements, including in the incredibly difficult war theatre of Afghanistan," Ridout said.
"Priority is being afforded by the Government to seeking opportunities for industry growth, along with the commitment to building skills, innovation and productivity.
"The new industry policy recognises the importance of skills in the Australian defence industry as being central to equipping and supporting the ADF in part by strengthening the Skilling Australia Defence Industry program (SADI).
"Ai Group is deeply engaged in defence skilling, including in Adelaide through the highly successful apprenticeship program at world-class ship and submarine builder, ASC.
"We welcome the new funding of $44.9 million for the Priority Industry Capability Innovation Program. This funding will assist companies to generate innovation across key sectors of Australia's defence industry. This will be of particular benefit to small and medium enterprises.”