- Published:
- Monday 23 January 2017
A new advertising campaign showcasing excellence in Victoria’s defence industry has been unveiled by the Andrews Labor Government to help secure major defence contracts, attract investment and create jobs.
Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan said the Defence Excellence – Mission Possible campaign will boost the visibility of Victoria’s defence industry, and promote its aerospace, land and maritime capabilities.
The campaign aims to help secure future Commonwealth defence projects – including LAND 400 Phase 2, which will see the development of 225 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles to replace the current Australian Light Armoured Vehicle fleet.
Victoria has a proven track record with military land vehicles through its expertise in engineering, design and technology, as well as strong research and development sectors and a world-class tertiary system.
The six month campaign begins today, featuring in industry publications and defence supplements in major newspapers as well as on billboards at Canberra Airport. It will roll out to parts of Melbourne next month.
The Labor Government has a proposal with the two shortlisted bidders for the LAND 400 Phase 2 project – BAE Systems Australia and Rheinmetall Defence – to base their project activities in Victoria.
The Government is also a major sponsor of the Australian International Airshow 2017 which begins in late February.
The Victorian defence industry contributes up to $8 billion to Victoria’s economy and includes more than 300 businesses, employing more than 7,000 people.
For more information about Victoria’s defence capabilities, visit www.ecodev.vic.gov.au/defence
Quotes attributed to the Minister for Industry Wade Noonan
“Victoria’s defence industry has a global reputation for excellence, and is well able to take on new programs such as the LAND 400 contract.”
“We are getting on with the job of growing this important industry, and this new campaign will help local supply chain companies win more contracts and put more Victorians into work.”
Quotes attributed to Victorian Defence Industry Advocate Greg Combet
“Australia’s defence sector relies heavily on Victorian-based industry, science and research.”
“This campaign will help build on those important capabilities and attract future investment and jobs.”