"The release today of the National Defence Strategy and 2024 Integrated Investment Program (IIP) represents an important milestone in the implementation of the Defence Strategic Review and provides a broad outline of the defence spending priorities," Innes Willox, Chief Executive of the national employer association Ai Group said today.
"The Government defines this update of the IIP as a strategic rebuild of Defence's capability procurement plans to be better aligned with Australia's evolving strategic landscape.
"The refreshed IIP sets out at a high level the Government's investment priorities for defence capabilities, with a focus on supporting the Strategy of Denial aimed at deterring conflicts proactively.
"Ai Group acknowledges the Government's commitment to supporting the US and UK submarine industrial bases with around A$9 billion. However, it is also important to prioritise investments in the domestic defence industry.
"A lot of work will be required and significant industry-Defence consultation to gain a clearer understanding of the requirements at a project level. At this point there is little clarity on project detail, and particularly which ones will be cut or delayed. Subject to security requirements, this needs to be explained urgently.
"The real work must begin now in communicating to our domestic defence industry the priorities for workforce development and where they should direct their investments to meet defence requirements.
"The concept of National Defence, leveraging all aspects of Australia's national power, is fundamental to achieving a unified approach to security.
"Ai Group looks forward to engaging with Defence to gain insights into the specifics of the IIP and collaborating on implementing these critical initiatives," Mr Willox said.
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