Defence-estate works released to bolster economy

The government is releasing almost $870 million of estate works to the market which will bolster defence industry as the economy recovers from COVID-19.

FILE PHOTO: Keswick Barracks, Adelaide. Photo by Corporal David Cotton.

More than 300 work packages have been created for Australian defence industry under the newly established Forward Release Program.

The program will provide new jobs and business opportunities across Australia in what will be a key part of the ongoing Defence Estate Works Program.

Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said the investment would be delivered over the next three years.

“The government remains resolutely committed to delivering capability for the ADF, and backing in defence industry through the COVID-19 pandemic,” Minister Reynolds said.

“This opportunity will ensure small and medium businesses are able to engage in supporting Defence with the maintenance and sustainment of current infrastructure right across Australia, while also providing certainty to Australian businesses and their workers.

“This announcement is aimed at sustaining a steady pipeline of work for thousands of Australians, on top of the more than $4.7 billion of payments paid early to Australian defence industry since 23 March.”

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the funding would provide a boost for small and medium sized companies around Australia.

“This is another way we are working to keep the wheels of defence industry turning through these challenging times,” Minister Price said.

“The fast-tracking of invoice payments and the timely funding of Defence estate projects are important for the sector and the Australian economy.

“We’ll be working to promote early engagement with industry to advise businesses about proposed procurement activities across the Defence estate.

“This proactive advice to defence industry allows our partners to plan for upcoming works that are scheduled for release on AusTender,” Minister Price said.

Information is available on the Defence Estate Quality Management System website where it will be visible to industry, and existing AusTender notices will be adjusted to alert industry.

Find further information here.

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