The Workforce Behind the Defence Force launches

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP today announced the Defence Industry Information Campaign: ‘The Workforce behind the Defence Force’.

‘The Workforce Behind The Defence Force’campaign aims to ensure that the Australian Government’s historic investment of $200 billion to grow Australia’s defence capability, securing our nation while building our industrial capacity has the Australian workforce it will require now and into the future.

Minister Pyne said that Australia’s defence industry plays a critical role in supporting and sustaining our defence capability and will continue to play a pivotal role as our defence capability is developed with growing opportunities particularly for Small to Medium Enterprises set to expand.

“This information campaign highlights the many jobs and business opportunities for Australians in the defence industry sector. It highlights that with industry expanding there is an increasing need for skilled workers and robust businesses in the supply chain,” he said.

“The campaign is one element of a national, long-term strategy to support Australia’s industry in the era of advanced manufacturing, to position industry as a robust industry strategic asset supporting Defence and national security.

“There will be tremendous opportunities for Australians businesses in our defence industry and for those businesses and individuals who haven’t previously considered working with Defence.”

Minister Pyne said this campaign was about preparing those businesses and individuals to recognise the opportunities on offer and to ensure that we have the workforce we need with the right skills today and into the future.

“It is also about delivering the high-tech manufacturing defence industry we need to provide long-term jobs, economic prosperity and security for all Australians,” Minister Pyne said.

“This also is to encourage Australians - young and old, to consider opportunities for employment in the defence industry.”

Research commissioned by the Department of Defence found that the opportunities emanating from the Government’s investment in Australia’s security were not fully understood by the Australian public or industry, despite extensive coverage by the national media.

This campaign is an important element of ensuring that the Australian Government can fulfil the commitments in the 2016 Defence White Paper, the Defence Industry Policy Statement and the Integrated Investment Program.

Information on the campaign, including where Australians and Australian businesses can go to find out more about defence industry and the opportunities available is at: www.defenceindustry.gov.au