Leveraging our Defence sector

Playing a significant role in providing opportunity for local business, the Defence sector in Albury Wodonga supports up to 400 independent businesses and contractors.

On an annual basis, Defence injects significant benefit to the Albury Wodonga economy, estimated at $545 million in direct impacts and sustains output of $938 million with combined indirect benefits.

The Albury Wodonga Military Area consists of the Gaza Ridge, Wadsworth and Latchford Barracks, with the Army Logistic Training Centre headquartered in the region to provide effective logistic training to a large portion of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Local businesses already supplying to the Defence sector (either directly or through its major contractors) include Milspec Manufacturing, Australian Target Systems, Australian Aerospace Engineering (AAE), Meggitt Training Systems, Wodonga TAFE, Bertazzo Engineering and many more. Many of these local businesses are increasing the capacity of Defence through the innovation solutions they offer the sector.

With access to a skilled workforce, particularly ex-Defence personnel who wish to stay or return to the region, businesses can utilise their insight and expertise to support the development of their business to supply to Defence. Other factors contributing to the popularity of the region for Defence suppliers include the supporting industry base, availability of affordable land and access to road, rail and air transport.

While it can be challenging for SMEs to supply directly to Defence, subcontracting to Primes (major Defence contractors) can provide businesses with the chance to be part of the supply chain.

The Defence Murray Riverina Alliance (DMRA) is a local network of industry, government and partner organisations which provides support and information to businesses wanting to enter or grow their presence in the Defence sector both on and off shore, and also promotes the defence industry capabilities of the region. In addition, the Centre for Defence Industry Capability supports Australian businesses entering or working in the Defence industry. They can help businesses connect, build, innovate and export in the defence industry.

If you would like to be notified of opportunities to supply to Defence, register for alerts with AusTender, the Australian Government’s procurement information system. You can also register with the Industry Capability Network (ICN) Gateway to be notified of opportunities in Defence and other industries.