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

I thank Senator Molan not only for his service but for his continuing support of our forces—thank you. This morning the Prime Minister and I had the great delight of announcing a $1 billion package to support Australia's economic recovery from COVID-19. This package of 22 discrete projects will support around 4,000 Australian jobs right around our nation while complementing Defence's 2020 Force structure plan.

Firstly, we are accelerating existing capability projects and programs. This $200 million investment will support 445 Australian jobs. Secondly, we are delivering a national estate works program right across Australia, including in bushfire affected areas. This $490 million investment will support 2,950 Australian jobs. Thirdly, we're enhancing sustainment for existing capabilities. This $200 investment will support 440 Australian jobs. Fourthly, we are also boosting funding for defence industry grants and defence innovation hubs to support businesses, particularly small and medium businesses, to strengthen our skilled defence industry workforce. This $110 million investment will support 150 Australian jobs.

I'm so proud and pleased to report that Australia's defence industry here in Australia has demonstrated remarkable resilience and versatility during this pandemic. We have worked very hard to keep defence capabilities, and our Australian economy, moving. I commend the Defence Force and also the defence department for so quickly adapting to new business as usual ways during COVID-19. I'm so proud of the work that we are doing together to ensure that the business of defending our nation continues both here and overseas.