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Western Australian government leaders are travelling to the United Kingdom to attend strategic talks to strengthen the WA defence sector, AUKUS ties and opportunities for industry.
Premier Roger Cook and Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia are seeking capability to speed up nuclear-powered submarine construction as part of the WA government’s “Made in WA” plan to diversify the state’s economy.
During the five-day trip, the state government will attend a roundtable meeting in London with defence industry representatives and meet with UK government officials, including Maria Eagle, Minister of State for Defence Procurement and Industry, and John Lord Spellar, the UK’s trade envoy to Australia.
The Premier and Minister Papalia will also visit His Majesty’s Naval Base in Devonport, the sole nuclear repair and refuelling facility for the Royal Navy.
Both Minister Eagle and Lord Spellar have recently visited WA, conducting discussions around the progress of the landmark AUKUS partnership and the investment and trade relationship between WA and the UK.
“My government is working every day to ensure WA’s economy remains the strongest in the nation and that there is no better place in the world to get a quality job,” Premier Cook said.
“The defence industry is critical to our plans to diversify our economy, and that’s why this trip to strengthen AUKUS ties and unlock opportunities for local businesses is so important.
“We are working to make more things right here in WA, attract more international investment and make our state one of the best in the world to do business.”
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has previously announced a plan to build up to 12 additional nuclear-powered submarines over the next decade, potentially allowing WA businesses to play a pivotal role in speeding up the construction of these military assets.
Earlier this year, Minister Papalia led a US delegation made up of WA businesses to focus on entering the Virginia Class supply chain.
Defence is set to become WA’s second largest industry, surpassing agriculture and providing a buffer to the cyclical nature of the resources sector.
In addition, during this UK trip, discussions around WA’s energy ambitions will also be centre stage, following the World Hydrogen Summit in May 2025.
“From submarines to frigates, defence is Made in WA, and our local businesses are strongly positioned to support the construction and sustainment of Astute Class submarines,” Minister Papalia said.
“It’s a win for WA and our AUKUS partners.
“This mission is about showcasing WA’s defence strengths to grow the sector and diversify WA’s economy.”
