“I am delighted with the positive response to our event and I think it shows just how much interest there is amongst the SME community to be involved in Australia’s defence enterprise,” Margot Forster from the Defence Teaming Centre said.

“This SME summit offered our members the opportunity to explore leads in numerous major projects, including the three big maritime programs – submarines, frigates and offshore patrol vessels. Also included in the summit was an update on the numerous land projects in the pipeline by Brigadier Ed Smeaton, Director General Land Manoeuvre Systems CASG. Ken Butler, of the General Support Systems Program Office, also briefed specifically on LAND 8140.

“Now that these programs are underway, it is important to maximise involvement for Australian companies.”

Nine prime contractors were present at the summit, with Thales, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, SAAB, ASC, NSM Australia and Lürrsen attending one on one meetings with SMEs.

“Australian SMEs have a great deal to offer. I have seen first-hand the world leading technology and expertise they have, and I am sure many companies will go on to be exporting power houses," Foster said.

“The emphasis on growing a superior defence industrial base is critical to Australia’s national security, as well as our economic state of play," ADA Victoria CEO Claire Willette said.

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"Providing SMEs with the ability to understand the opportunities and maximise their competitiveness is why events such as the summit are crucial. Partnership and collaboration will underpin our collective ability to thrive in the global market".

The event was bookended by Minister for Defence Christopher Pyne and Assistant Minister for Defence David Fawcett.