Defence

The Government has signed contracts with Navantia S.A. to build Australia’s two replacement replenishment ships, avoiding a critical capability gap.

Australia’s current supply ship HMAS Success will reach its end of life in 2021 and needs to be replaced as a matter of priority.

As part of the $640 million contract with Navantia more than $130 million will go to Australian industry.

Local industry activity will include Combat and Communication Systems integration, Integrated Logistics Support, and elements of the onboard cranes.

Joint release with the Minister for Defence Materiel, the Hon. Dan Tehan MP

LAND 40 Phase 2, the Light Weight Automatic Grenade Launcher project, has been removed from the Projects of Concern list.

Minister for Defence Senator the Hon Marise Payne said the project has been on the list since December 2012, however is now well positioned to deliver an important capability to the Australian Defence Force.

“The removal of this project demonstrates that the Projects of Concern process is working.” Senator Payne said.

Joint release with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon. Julie Bishop MP

Today we announce a further package of assistance to support Fiji in its reconstruction efforts following Tropical Cyclone Winston.

The Australian Government will provide an additional $20 million to rebuild critical infrastructure and increase resilience to natural disasters.

Australian funding will support the rebuilding of schools and medical clinics and restoration of water and sanitation services.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, and Member for Durack, Melissa Price MP, today visited Defence’s West Australian Naval Communication Station Harold E Holt, which is set to gain a highly advanced Space Surveillance Telescope.

“The telescope will soon be moved from its current location in the United States to a new purpose built Australian facility near Exmouth, Western Australia,” Minister Payne said.

“Over the next four years, as part of Government’s White Paper commitment, the new facility will be built and the telescope relocated.”

Joint release with the Assistant Minister for Disability Services, the Hon. Jane Prentice MP

The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, together with Federal Member for Ryan, the Hon Jane Prentice MP this morning visited the Australian Army’s Gallipoli Barracks at Enoggera, Queensland.

Senator Payne and Mrs Prentice met with the men and women of the Brisbane-based 7th Combat Brigade and their families over a BBQ breakfast.

Senator Payne said it was a pleasure to spend time with members of the Australian Army.