Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Leyonhjelm for his question and also for the speech he has given on this particular subject in the chamber. I have to note that some of my best friends are South Australian. I think it is fair to say that parochialism is relative. I am not sure whether South Australians are any better or worse at that than any other state. I say that from the superior position, of course, of representing the premier state of New South Wales, as do you, Senator Leyonhjelm.

As far as Western Sydney is concerned, Senator Leyonhjelm, you raise a very interesting point. I can, indeed, attest to both the innovation and the agility of our businesses and our business leaders in Western Sydney. They can do anything they turn their minds to. But, with respect to submarines, I think they may lack one key enabler, and that is access to water.

That said, though, I can assure the Senate and the senator that the government is determined to get the best capability and the best value for money through a competitive evaluation process for the Future Submarine. That CEP is looking at the greatest possible involvement of Australian industry in the Future Submarine program without compromising capability, cost, schedule or risk. There are three participants in that process: DCNS of France, TKMS of Germany and the government of Japan. All of those have engaged with Australian industry across the nation and have not confined their activities to South Australia only. Each participant will present proposals for a build-overseas, a build-in-Australia or a hybrid approach. The government is expecting to receive those proposals at the close of the submission process on 30 November, and that will include plans for Australian industry involvement from wherever it comes. (Time expired)