Around 20 businesses from the Rockhampton Region and Central Queensland recently took a significant step toward securing lucrative defence contracts by participating in the Intro to Defence Manufacturing Workshop. Hosted by Advance Rockhampton, the region’s lead economic development agency, in collaboration with Defence Jobs Queensland and the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub, the workshop aimed to equip local manufacturers with the knowledge and tools necessary to tap into the growing defence sector.
The workshop provided participants with valuable insights into upcoming defence manufacturing projects, supply chain pathways, and the specific standards required to successfully bid for contracts. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with key government representatives and industry experts, including Samuel Jesuadian from the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub and Mitch Upton from Upton Engineering, a Central Queensland-based precision manufacturer with a proven track record in supplying to the defence sector.
Mayor Tony Williams highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening Rockhampton’s defence manufacturing capabilities. He pointed to the region’s proximity to Shoalwater Bay, as well as its world-class air and sea ports, as factors that already position Rockhampton as a prime defence destination. “Increasing our region’s defence manufacturing capacity will bolster our reputation and open up more economic growth opportunities,” Mayor Williams said.
The workshop’s focus was on demonstrating the immense potential for local manufacturers to expand into areas such as armoured vehicle production, drone repair, robotics, and construction. “Rockhampton is home to a skilled and diverse workforce in sectors like resources, agriculture, and heavy transport, and this workshop shows how those capabilities can be leveraged in the defence sector,” Mayor Williams added.
Erin Kiernan, Manager of the North Queensland Defence Industry Hub, emphasized the wide-ranging possibilities that defence manufacturing offers. “This sector presents exciting opportunities for local businesses, allowing them to tap into global supply chains and positioning them for long-term success,” Kiernan explained.
Kristopher Biddle, Manager of the Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub, reassured attendees that support is available to help local manufacturers build their capabilities and confidence to enter the defence market. “While the process of engaging in defence projects might seem complex initially, a robust network of industry partners and support services is here to assist,” Biddle said. The Rockhampton Manufacturing Hub maintains close ties with Defence Jobs Queensland and Advance Rockhampton, ensuring that manufacturers have access to resources and guidance as they expand their operations.
Wade Clark, Economic Development Manager at Advance Rockhampton, noted that the workshop aligns with the region’s broader strategy to become a central player in Australia’s defence support sector. “Our goal is to establish a $1.1 billion local defence industry by 2041, and that starts with helping businesses build the skills and knowledge they need to capitalize on emerging opportunities,” Clark stated.
With a clear focus on advancing local manufacturing capabilities, Rockhampton is positioning itself to play a crucial role in the defence industry, offering both new opportunities for businesses and broader economic growth for the region.
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