Defence

Sector

Defence

Manufacturing – Systems and cyber – Research – Naval Shipbuilding – Information Warfare

Highlights


South Australia is at the forefront of the nation’s defence industries.

The AUKUS alliance and defence project will cement South Australia’s position as the shipbuilding capital of Australia with nuclear-powered submarines set to be built at the world-class Osborne Naval Shipyard, with the Collins Class submarine sustainment program and upgrades to the Hobart Class destroyer combat management systems creating opportunities for the state’s defence supply chain.

Renowned for its innovation, world-class research and development, and a highly skilled workforce, the state’s defence industry has a proud history of delivering some of Australia’s largest and most complex defence projects.

With a combination of low business costs, an exceptional quality of life, a knowledge-based economy, a world-class education system, and a strong defence and manufacturing heritage it is no wonder seven of the world’s top 10 defence companies across maritime, aerospace, land, systems and cyber domains call South Australia home.

Investing in Defence


With a culture of entrepreneurship, collaboration and embracing new ideas, South Australia is the logical location for companies operating in the defence sector. By investing in South Australia, your business will be at the epicentre of the latest in technology advancements, surrounded by like-minded companies and research and development institutes working at the cutting-edge.

We have a proven track record of developing a highly skilled workforce to deliver major defence projects, and our partnerships with higher education facilities and technical colleges ensure the defence industry is a priority and stand us apart.

To learn more about building on an already strong  Defence industry, view the Defence Sector Strategy.

Investment advantages


In addition to being the epicentre of naval shipbuilding in Australia, South Australia is fast-becoming a centre for defence cyber security innovation and skills. Home to a growing cyber workforce and a world-class industry capable of solving complex problems, the state is at the forefront of innovation and future defence requirements.

The Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre (A3C) is focused on building a cyber-skills pipeline to attract local, national and international investment and strengthen cyber resilience within the South Australian business community. The centre enables businesses, researchers and government to collaborate, while allowing cyber security devices, software and techniques to be introduced into the environment for certification or standards based testing to be performed.

The Office of Defence Industry Support can help small business connect, build, innovate and export in the defence industry.

Edinburgh Defence Precinct is a key national defence research, manufacturing and sustainment hub.

Connected ecosystem


With strengths in a range of defence relevant research fields, three world-class universities and Defence Science and Technology Group’s largest Australian operation, South Australia has a long history of success in collaborative defence research and development.

South Australia’s competitive business environment, combined with a strong Defence presence and a vibrant research and development ecosystem, makes our state the best place for defence innovation.

The Defence Innovation Partnership, a collaborative initiative between state and federal government, industry and academia, is a catalyst for defence relevant research and development (R&D) in South Australia. The Partnership helps deliver innovative technologies and R&D solutions to Defence by creating connections between researchers, industry and Defence. 

For more than 20 years, South Australian companies have been winning and delivering the nation’s most complex and dynamic defence projects. In addition to a network of leading multinational companies, South Australia also has a strong core of small to medium sized enterprises actively delivering specialist services and products to the Australian Defence Force and other Defence customers around the world.

Innovation precincts


Collaboration is in our DNA here in South Australia. You will have access to some of the best innovation precincts where high-profile businesses, academia, industry bodies and government are co-located and working together.

  • Defence and Space Landing Pad

    Provides companies relocating to South Australia with affordable, short-term office facilities and relationship building opportunities.

    Learn more >

  • Edinburgh Defence Precinct

    Edinburgh Defence Precinct is a key national defence research, manufacturing and sustainment hub.

    Learn more >

  • Lot Fourteen

    Lot Fourteen is a space that fosters collaboration and innovation across sectors and disciplines, including defence and space, artificial intelligence, digital health, machine learning and robotics, cyber security and creative industries.

    Learn more >

  • Osborne Naval Shipyard

    Osborne Naval Shipyard is the nation’s premier naval industry hub for companies pursuing opportunities in defence or commercial ship-building and ship sustainment projects.

    Learn more >

  • Technology Park

    Technology Park is an established hub of defence and aerospace, advanced electronics, health, training, consulting, and information communication technology companies. Technology Park Adelaide provides a thriving environment for business collaboration and networking.

    Learn more >

  • Tonsley Innovation District

    Tonsley is a hub for advanced manufacturing businesses and services specialising in high-growth sectors: health, medical devices and assistive technologies, cleantech and renewable energy, software and simulation, mining and energy services.

    Learn more >

Resources

Industry Directory


The South Australian Defence Industry Directory showcases the breadth and depth of South Australian capabilities and makes it easy for organisations to find and connect with relevant businesses working within the South Australian defence sector.

View directory

Primary contact

Help for investing in South Australia's Defence sector

Tiffany Katchmar

Tiffany Katchmar

Director, Defence and Space

Working nationally and internationally with leading companies in the space industry to develop partnership, export and investment opportunities.

Contact

+61 427 438 617 Tiffany.Katchmar@sa.gov.au

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