The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has released figures that Defence has stated reaffirms the economic benefits of the government’s investments in growing the Australian defence industry.
The Australian Defence Industry Account (ADIA) data for 2022-23 shows the contribution from Australia’s defence industry to the national economy grew by 4.1 per cent on the previous year.
The number of people directly employed in the defence industry grew by 3,800 jobs, an increase of 6 per cent, with 2,000 jobs added in New South Wales.
When taking into account jobs in the defence industry supply chain, the defence industry supports more than 100,000 jobs across Australia.
“Australian Bureau of Statistics data showing almost 4,000 direct jobs were added in the defence industry demonstrates that the Government’s positive plan to grow Australia’s defence industrial base is working," said Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy.
“The defence industry is an essential partner in keeping Australians safe at home, secure in the world. This is a very good result and underscores the unwavering commitment on the part of the Albanese Government to support this critical industry and create jobs is paying dividends.
“I look forward to continuing to deliver a greater partnership between Defence and industry, developing the sovereign defence industrial base we need for our national security, as set out in the Defence Industry Development Strategy.”
The ADIA reports on economic indicators relating to the direct economic contribution of defence industry to the Australian economy.
It is based on analysis of firms contracting directly with Defence and contributes to the government’s understanding of the defence industry by providing consistent metrics.