The first iteration of Babcock Australasia’s (Babcock) national Defence Industry Engagement Series was a huge success with almost 500 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and key industry stakeholders attending sessions across Australia, demonstrating the power of industry collaboration in driving innovation and strengthening the nation’s sovereign defence capability.
The series, led and hosted by Babcock, visited Brisbane, Townsville, Adelaide and Henderson, and provided insights into upcoming Defence programs, supply chain requirements and export pathways. The events also outlined the support available to SMEs looking to enter the sector for the first time.
Each session highlighted specific opportunities in each state, as well as export opportunities through the Global Supply Chain Program. For example, attendees at the Henderson session heard from the West Australian Government about current and future defence opportunities in the state, and local SMEs, FUZE and Franmarine, outlined their first-hand experience as strategically important partners for Babcock.
Babcock is a strong supporter of SMEs. The company partners with 700 SMEs nation-wide, spending almost half ($92 million) of its procurement expenditure with its SME supply chain.
Babcock Australasia Acting Chief Executive Officer Leah Grantham said:
“SMEs are essential to building a resilient defence industry and by empowering local businesses we are strengthening the nation’s ability to deliver sovereign capability – now and into the future.
“The success of Babcock’s national Defence Industry Engagement Series has highlighted how much capability exists in Australia and how powerful it can be when we connect innovative suppliers with the opportunities, partners and support they need to grow and thrive.”