Defence industries
A robust defence industry with a broader and deeper defence industrial base that is respected, innovative and competitive.
We are building a robust defence industrial base that is respected, innovative and competitive
The Western Australian defence sector supports our Defence Forces and significantly contributes to our nation’s defence requirements. We have a competitive, flexible and resilient defence industry with a long and successful history. Western Australia has strong, advanced manufacturing capabilities supported by tertiary institutions that are world class and truly at the forefront of the next generation of defence technologies and innovation.
The defence sector in WA works across defence’s 5 operational domains: information and cyber; maritime; air; space; and land.
Quick facts
$3 billion will be invested in WA Defence facilities annually
The largest undercover shipbuilding hall in the Southern Hemisphere
50 industry-academic connections facilitated by the Defence Science Centre
Highlights
Broad sector expertise
Western Australia has a respected, innovative and competitive defence industry that is focussed on: naval shipbuilding and sustainment; a growing space sector; aerospace sustainment; and activities in diverse fields such as communications, clothing, and information systems.
Defence West
Defence West is part of the team at the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the primary Western Australian Government agency responsible for strengthening and diversifying the economy, and creating jobs.
Defence science collaborations in WA
Industry and the state’s leading universities are undertaking significant research and development to support the Department of Defence and Australian Defence Force and are supported by the WA Government.
Australian Marine Complex
The Australian Marine Complex (AMC) is a world-class centre of excellence for manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, technology, repair and maintenance activities for the marine, defence and resource industries.
Department of Defence Infrastructure in Western Australia
Opportunities to tender for upgrades of infrastructure and facilities in Defence establishments across Western Australia.
WA Defence Industry Capability Directory
The Western Australian Directory of Defence Industry Capabilities highlights local businesses with the capacity and expertise to support emerging defence projects.
Why Western Australia
In Western Australia you will find:
- world-class industrial and export defence infrastructure, with some of the world's largest ports
- access to land, infrastructure, water, power, suppliers, research centres and skilled workers
- the Australian Marine Complex (AMC) located in Henderson, approximately 23km south of the Perth city centre is a world-class centre of excellence for manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, technology, repair and maintenance activities for the marine, defence and resource industries
- world-leading innovation undersea and unmanned systems, cyber security, command & control systems and space domain related technologies
- achievements in defence-relevant research collaborations among universities, industry and defence.
Discover Western Australian projects currently seeking investment.
Visit WA Investments
Opportunities
Large Vessel Dry Berth Early Market engagement
The WA Government is looking to understand the current market interest in the development of a large vessel dry berth at the Australian Marine Complex (AMC) in Henderson, WA. A large vessel dry berth at the AMC would support the large-hulled vessel build and sustainment needs of the Department of Defence and Royal Australian Navy, and attract new commercial opportunities.
Defence Technology Precinct
The Australian Marine Complex (AMC) features the dedicated 24ha Technology Precinct to support research and development activities critical to the defence, resources and marine sectors. Western Australia is transforming into a leading hub for marine, defence and resources technology and innovation.
Defence Science Centre
The Defence Science Centre (DSC) supports universities, small-to-medium enterprises and other organisations by facilitating connections that transform research and industry challenges into defence science capabilities. The DSC offers a coordinating role for visitors, such as prime contractors and global research agencies.
Australian Marine Complex Planning Studies
Through an agreement between the Department of Defence and the WA Government, up to $9 million in Australian Government funding is being provided to undertake planning studies at the AMC. These studies will assess options presented in the AMC SILUP and will inform the development of future infrastructure.
More information
WA manufacturer secures defence export deal
Matrix Composites & Engineering in Western Australia is home to Australia’s largest composite manufacturing plant and the largest hyperbaric test facility in the Southern Hemisphere. For more than 20 years, Matrix has been supplying the global oil and gas industry and recently successfully pivoted into the defence sector, reaching new clients around the world.
London Tech Week 2024
Spanning 5 days, this global tech event attracts over 5,000 start-ups and 1,000 investors. Gain insights from cross-industry leaders, deep-dives into the start-up ecosystem and power conversations on social impact from the biggest names at the forefront of tech transformation, business and politics.
Get in touch
If you are looking for opportunities in business, investment or trade, contact our experienced team at Invest and Trade WA.
Our in-house experts can support you directly and provide referrals or introductions across our network of overseas offices, industry bodies and government agencies.