DMTC chief executive Dr Mark Hodge said their collaborative model would leverage contributions from leading industrial partners across the supply chain and from Australian universities and research sector organisations.

"One of the strengths of our collaborative model has always been, and continues to be, our attention to the needs of the Defence customer," Dr Hodge said.

"This assures both Defence and our partners that our priorities will continue to be shaped and adjusted over time, to ensure they are producing relevant and desired outcomes for Defence and building the capacity of Australian industry. DMTC will build on its existing work in relation to technologies such as precision manufacturing, welding high-strength steel and adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies.

"We will continue to broaden and improve the capacity and capabilities of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises, many of which are critical to the supply chains of the major defence contractors."

The contract is a demonstration of how the government’s $200 billion investment over 10 years in Defence capabilities is building industrial capacity, particularly in small and medium-sized businesses, right across Australia.

DMTC works collaboratively with many innovative Australian industry, research and government partners. Our focus is on delivering enhanced defence and national security capabilities, and strengthening Australian industrial capacity.

DMTC creates and enhances Australian industrial capability by leading, facilitating and managing collaborative research and development and innovation activities in the defence and related sectors in manufacturing, engineering and applied science. Defence and national security customers, industry and the research sector are key stakeholders.

The CDIC is an initiative of the Defence Industry Policy Statement. Its purpose is to help transform the Defence and industry relationship, facilitate innovation and exports, and fund defence industry development, critical defence business maturity and skilling.

Stephen Kuper

Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.