Invest Queensland targets aviation and defence industries

Published Wednesday, 27 February, 2013 at 12:04 PM

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Jeff Seeney

The Newman Government is stepping up its efforts to attract more aviation, aerospace and defence industries to Queensland.

Invest Queensland is leading an industry and local authority delegation to the Australian International Airshow and Aerospace and Defence Exposition at Avalon in Victoria.

Deputy Premier and State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jeff Seeney said aviation, aerospace and defence-related industries were key target groups for investment in Queensland.

“The Avalon Airshow is Australia’s largest, providing a unique opportunity to showcase Queensland’s aviation, aerospace and defence industries and capabilities,” Mr Seeney said.

“Invest Queensland will use this opportunity to attract new investment projects and business opportunities to the state.

“The Queensland delegation will aim to develop and cement ties with national and international businesses.

“Invest Queensland is taking nine partner organisations to Avalon from Queensland industry and local councils.

“Together with the Newman Government, these partners will reflect Queensland’s outstanding supply and sustainment capability.

“The group will also showcase the pivotal roles of local governments as owners and operators of air infrastructure, and as partners in driving industry and economic development.

“There is a growing critical mass of industry activity in Queensland with more than 16,500 aviation, aerospace and defence-related jobs and more than 900 aviation and aerospace companies now located in the state.”

Invest Queensland is the government’s one-stop shop vehicle for investors.

It is the only unit of its kind in Australia, specialising in case-by-case facilitation services for clients such as expediting approvals, finding suitable locations and supply chain partners, and reducing red tape barriers. 

“Streamlined processes, access to the right decision-makers and a good business environment are every bit as important as marketing, and much more valuable to investors than up-front incentives,” Mr Seeney said.

Mr Seeney said the Avalon delegation, led by the Director-General of the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning David Edwards,  would make sure aviation, aerospace and defence companies know Queensland had its doors open and intended to make doing business in Queensland much easier.

[ENDS] 27 February 2013

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