Queensland has successfully launched a new push to build its maritime capability and boost defence industry jobs at the Pacific 2019 International Maritime Exposition in Sydney this week.
Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said the Sunshine State is poised to play a bigger role in national and international defence industries.
"Queensland, in particular our north and Far North, offers a direct gateway to the Indo-Asia-Pacific, a position which carries with it many maritime industry opportunities," Mr Dick said.
"We have 6873 kilometres of mainland coastline, 21 shipping ports from Brisbane to Burketown, and the skills, capabilities and facilities to become the port of choice to deliver services across the South Pacific and Asia-Pacific.
"The Palaszczuk Government is steadfast in our support for economic development opportunities across our region, and we want to grow our maritime industry supply chain to create more jobs in Queensland.
"This commitment is seen in our new $10 million manufacturing hub in Cairns, where the marine industry is a key focus area, particularly for future defence sustainment work over the next 15 years."
Sixteen companies have showcased at the Queensland Government trade stand in 2019.
These include a significant contingent from north Queensland featuring three shipyards (Tropical Reef Shipyards, Norship Marine, BSE Maritime Solutions) and Great Barrier Reef International Marine College.
Around 100 industry representatives attended the Queensland maritime defence breakfast, including Rear Admiral Wendy Malcolm who spoke about the benefits of maintenance and sustainment of vessels in Cairns.
The Queensland Government's strong presence at Pacific 2019 follows on from the highly successful South Pacific Defence and Industry Forum, held in Cairns in September.
Full list of companies showcased on the Queensland trade stand at Pacific 2019:
- Tropical Reef Shipyard
- Norship Marine
- BSE Maritime Solutions
- Great Barrier Reef International Marine College
- STEYR Motors Australia
- The Yard Brisbane
- Thompson Couplings Limited
- Hetech
- Queensland Gaskets
- AirBerth Boat Lifts
- Aleeda
- AMS Group
- Aqualuma LED Lighting
- Craig International Ballistics
- Ferra Engineering
- EM Solutions
