Defence and defence industry stakeholders are scheduled to attend Parliament House for the inaugural AIDN Sovereign Capability Showcase and Policy Symposium.
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It is expected that 22 exhibitors will showcase their capabilities in Parliament’s Mural Hall between 6pm and 8pm, with some 310 delegates attending the daytime policy symposium.
The Minister for Defence Industry and Secretary of Defence are billed to speak at the event.
Organised by the Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN), with some 1,500 businesses registered as members, the event will unpack Australia’s research, innovation and manufacturing system.
“The purpose of the showcase is to highlight the critical role the Australian defence industry plays in contributing to Australia’s sovereignty, security and safety,” Carl Quarterman, the newly elected AIDN Board chair, said.
“It will also demonstrate the integral role our industry plays in Australia’s economy through our sovereign supply chains; modern manufacturing practices; research and innovation; skills development; and veteran and regional employment.”
Brent Clark, chief executive officer of AIDN, explained that the event was an opportunity to showcase the importance of defence industry.
“Today, AIDN is proud to demonstrate to Australia’s political leaders that there is a backbone of national resilience and sovereign defence capability in this country, and we are prepared to work side by side with the Department of Defence to accelerate capability delivery and build more durable supply chains here onshore,” Clark said.
“We hope this will be the first of many such opportunities for open engagement and discussion between government and the SMEs supporting our national security,” Clark said.