A Victorian defence industry company has received funding to boost its cyber readiness to help it crack the lucrative US market.
Minister for Defence Industry, Melissa Price said it was one of three new grants awarded, totalling almost $400,000, under a scheme aimed at boosting exports for Australian businesses.
Two other firms also received funding under the Defence Global Competitiveness Grant program to boost opportunities in the global F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program and for specialist infa-red lighting for US military customers.
“This is a program that is a key part of the government's plan to increase export opportunities and grow Australia’s defence industry and economy,” Minister Price said.
“By helping Australian small businesses build their export capability, we are assisting them to expand and support the current and future needs of Defence.
“South Australian business Lightforce Australia has built an international reputation as a leading manufacturer of innovative lighting equipment, and this grant will help it pursue additional export opportunities in the US.
“Two other recipients, Nupress Tools from NSW and Victorian company A.W. Bell, are key examples of Australian industry working with the global supply chain to provide first-rate components for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, and the global aerospace industry.
“Export success in defence industry has the potential to be an economic force-multiplier, generating opportunities in adjacent sectors throughout the Australian economy.”
Defence Global Competitiveness Grants are available to help Australian small and medium businesses invest in projects that help to build their export capacity.