Queensland announces funding for major drone manufacturing project

EPE Oceania chief executive officer Warwick Penrose welcomed the Crisafulli government’s support to accelerate Project MOSAIC, strengthening the nation’s sovereign drone capability.

“This support will help accelerate the industrialisation and export of Australian sovereign uncrewed aerial systems developed and manufactured right here in Queensland,” Penrose said.

“Project MOSAIC brings together two innovative Queensland companies to build a scalable, trusted sovereign capability that strengthens Australia’s defence preparedness, creates highly skilled local jobs and expands opportunities for Queensland manufacturers throughout the supply chain.”

Delivered in partnership with Grabba Technologies, Project MOSAIC will bolster Australia’s ability to build and support small drone systems locally, supporting 25 highly skilled jobs and strengthening Queensland’s defence manufacturing capability and supply chains.

Grabba Technologies acting managing director Ross McKinnon said Project MOSAIC is a strategically significant step towards positioning Queensland as Australia’s UAS centre of excellence.

“The capabilities and skills roles delivered through the SIDF grant are pivotal in ensuring Australia’s long-term national security objectives,” McKinnon said.

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The investment will support the upgrade and expansion of manufacturing and test facilities in South-East Queensland, along with digital infrastructure to support Queensland companies in the development of drone systems for Defence use and global markets.

EPE Oceania is a veteran-owned business with a strong veteran workforce, supporting former defence personnel to move into high‑value advanced manufacturing jobs.

The project was selected through a competitive, merit based assessment process with a focus on investment-ready proposals capable of delivering long-term economic value for Queensland following strong interest in the fund from industry, with over 250 applications seeking more than $2.2 billion in funding.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said the Sovereign Industry Development Fund was focused on delivery and backing investment‑ready projects that would deliver real sovereign capability, secure jobs and long‑term economic value for Queenslanders.

“Queensland is building the capability to design and manufacture next-generation technologies locally, and this project is part of that,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“After a decade of decline under Labor, Queensland was left without the strategic focus required to grow critical industries and maximise the opportunities presented by our sovereign industries.

“It strengthens local manufacturing, supports supply chains and creates skilled jobs in a growing advanced manufacturing sector.

“We’re also proud to back veteran‑owned businesses like EPE Oceania, creating new opportunities for former Defence personnel to use their skills in civilian jobs here in Queensland.”

The $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund forms part of the states’ plan to revitalise Queensland’s industrial base, attract private investment and secure long-term economic growth, by backing projects that are shovel-ready and will deliver lasting value to Queensland.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.