Strong defence industry to boost economy

The Newman Government has launched a new defence industries unit and appointed a defence envoy in a bid to grow the local defence sector and attract more investment to Queensland.

Queensland is the second-largest state for defence employment, home to a quarter of Australian Defence Force (ADF) military personnel and a 26 per cent share of national defence industry activity.

Premier Campbell Newman said the new Defence Industries Queensland (DIQ) unit would build on this and be a focal point for development of the sector in the state.

“The creation of DIQ demonstrates our long-term commitment to advancing Queensland’s defence industries,” Mr Newman said.

“DIQ’s approach will be shaped by future defence strategies and long-term procurement needs, growing a globally competitive industry.

“To drive defence investment in the state’s economy, we have appointed Queensland’s first Defence Industries Envoy, Lindsay Pears.

“He has enjoyed a distinguished career in the defence industry and is well-placed to help the government capitalise on the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Mr Pears started his career with the Royal Australian Air Force, followed by more than 25 years with leading defence contractors Ferranti, GEC Marconi and Boeing, and more recently as President of Saab Technologies Australia.

“Lindsay’s background will give Defence Industries Queensland invaluable experience,” Mr Newman said. 

“This appointment will lift the strategic profile of Queensland’s defence capability and boost growth in the defence sector.”

Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney said establishing DIQ signalled the increasing importance of defence industries to Queensland.

“Defence industries are some of the highest value-adding sectors with significant growth potential in domestic and overseas markets,” Mr Seeney said.

“This new unit will be part of the Industry Development division of the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning.

“The unit’s scope will extend from strategic assessments, to working with supplier groups to ensure local companies can take advantage of international project work.

”Key components of the Envoy’s roles will be to provide expert advice to inform Queensland’s strategic approach, identify specific market opportunities and assist industry development activities that support access to them.”

In 2011/12 Queensland attracted the largest share of the ADF Major Capital Facilities Program funding, at more than $441 million.

The Deputy Premier said Queensland needed a proactive approach to ensure it was well-placed to support Australia’s own defence needs, while building an international perspective and a broad-based industry capability.

“Whether you want to be in the defence industry or are a defence multinational, Queensland is the place to be,” Mr Seeney said.

“We’re open for business and offer the right environment for industry growth.

“DIQ will support Queensland-based companies and facilitate opportunities for investment in land, sea and air defence, border protection and national/international security.”

Additional defence envoys may be appointed in the future as needed to support and grow the defence industries sector.

[ENDS] 11 March 2013

Contact:         Premier’s Office 3224 4500

                        Deputy Premier’s Office 3224 4600

Bio of Lindsay Pears attached