The newly launched Workforce Behind the Defence Force campaign highlights the need for a skilled and experienced workforce to support this historic investment.

Senator Nigel Scullion said that Territory companies including Bradshaw & Timber Creek Contracting, Sitzler and Tiwi Partners were already part of the Defence industry, but more Territory businesses should be looking to get involved as well.

Lendlease officials visited Katherine last month to also urge Katherine business to be more involved.

“There are many opportunities within the defence industry sector. We want to maximise NT involvement in all our upcoming Defence work, so we can better support the Defence Force while creating and sustaining jobs and boosting the economy,” Senator Scullion said.

“The Australian defence industry is expanding, with an increasing need for skilled workers and a wide range of Australian businesses in the supply chain. From welders for our massive shipbuilding project to cabling on the new trucks, concreting for the warehouses on our bases to IT services for the back office: the opportunities here are significant, and growing.

“We want businesses and individuals who hadn’t previously contemplated working within the defence industry sector to be ready to seize the opportunities to join the workforce Australia needs with the right skills now and in the future.

“This means if you’re transitioning between jobs in the Territory, then take a look at working in the defence industry. If you’re a business looking for a new opportunity then see how you could work with Defence. If you’re studying in the NT then take a look at the options in the defence industry for once you graduate.”

Information on the campaign, including more about opportunities in the defence industry, can be found at defenceindustry.gov.au