Mark Potter will be one of around 100 Western Australian industry representatives ready to tout the state's defence contracting capability at a forum with the federal government’s new Centre for Defence Industry Capability this morning.
The centre was created this year and is undertaking a national roadshow to develop a plan to find where the Australian defence industry was competitive and build capabilities.
That was as a result of the recent defence sector white paper.
Mr Potter, who is general manager of Henderson-based naval maintenance business Naval Ship Management Australia, said the state's contractors would be in a good place to contribute to the national defence procurement program underway.
“I think we’re in a good position,” he said.
“Its an exciting time for defence industry, $195 billion (being spent) over ten years.
“It’s a great opportunity for industry to work with government.”
He said he was also keen to find out how the CDIC would work and its relationship with industry.
It follows the state’s first defence industry conference hosted by the Chamber of Commerce & Industry WA yesterday.
Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the industry was globally competitive.
“Today’s defence industry forum, along with a wide-ranging business survey, will analyse the products, services, skills and experience of WA industry,” Mr Mischin will say.
“WA will help guide the defence industrial capability plan and demonstrate the state’s capability and readiness to take part in the national build and sustainment projects.
“At today’s industry forum, Defence will brief local businesses on the nature of future opportunities and government support available to them.
“Information and insights offered by WA’s local industry to Defence and CDIC will emphasise the state’s capabilities to key decision makers and help shape the future of the nation’s defence industry.”
