AllFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 6 March 2025
Canberra:
AIDN welcomes the Albanese Governments’ release of the AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy which details a national whole-of-enterprise effort to foster a sovereign submarine industrial base.
The strategy released by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles on Wednesday, acknowledges Australia can only succeed in acquiring and sustaining conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines, building and sustaining SSN AUKUS and continuing to maintain the Collins class if all levels of the national submarine enterprise are involved.
AIDN has been calling for a formal AUKUS submarine industrialisation strategy for some time to ensure Australia’s sovereign SME base is fully involved in these ambitious opportunities.
AIDN notes that this work has been boosted after the government in February announced $262 million would be invested in the submarine industry to encourage Australian companies through the Defence Industry Development Grants program, the Global Supply Chain program and the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification program.
“As Australians grapple with the escalating cost-of-living crises, it is crucial that the AUKUS procurement framework is tailored to favour and support local small to medium-sized enterprises,’’ AIDN CEO Mike Johnson said.
“Australia’s AUKUS submarine industrial priorities can only be achieved if genuinely local, Australian-owned small and medium-sized businesses are truly thriving, by obtaining substantial work opportunities,’’ he added.
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT
John Kerin, Manager Government Relations, Australian Industry & Defence Network.
M: 0400 906 545
ABOUT AIDN
Established in 1995, the Australian Industry & Defence Network Limited (AIDN) is the peak industry association representing small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) supporting the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Department of Defence (DoD).
AIDN proudly represents nearly 1,000 Australian SMEs, collectively employing approximately 61,000 Australians nationwide. In the 2021-22 financial year, these dedicated businesses contributed $10.6 billion to the national economy through sovereign supply chains, advanced manufacturing, research and innovation, skills development, and regional and veteran employment.
In an environment of economic and geopolitical uncertainty, AIDN’s agile membership is well-positioned to support the Australian Government’s urgent capability needs. However, clear guidance on specific priorities is essential to unlock the full potential of Australia’s Defence industry.
Through advocacy, representation, and tailored member services, AIDN champions the interests of Australian SMEs within the Defence and national security sectors. AIDN remains committed to partnering with the Australian Government to build a resilient and self-reliant Defence industrial base, driven by the evolving operational needs of the ADF.
The Australian Industry & Defence Network Incorporated (AIDN) is the peak industry association for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) who support the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Department of Defence (DoD).
