Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the senator for that question and, yes, I can confirm that I've been having ongoing discussions with my French counterpart Florence Parly to ensure that Naval Group delivers not only on cost and on schedule but also for Australian industry capability and content. We have had ongoing discussions and, as I reported back to the Senate per my release, we have agreed on a minimum of 60 per cent Australian industry content. There were very strict guidelines in the agreement we had with France for contracted arrangements, but there wasn't a specific number. That is what I have now negotiated with the French government, and also Naval Group, to ensure that we have a minimum of 60 per cent.