Minister for Defence Industry – Centre for Defence Industry Capability – Inaugural Advisory Board Meeting and Release of Program Guidelines

The Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, today attended the first meeting of the Centre for Defence Industry Capability Advisory Board in Adelaide.

The Centre for Defence Industry Capability (CDIC), which will be based in Adelaide, was announced earlier this year as a cornerstone initiative of the 2016 Defence Industry Policy Statement.

Minister Pyne said the Board comprises representatives from private industry, industry groups and Defence, and provides guidance and strategic direction for the CDIC, transforming the Defence-industry relationship.

“The Advisory Board has a critical role in positioning Australian industry to seize the unprecedented opportunities available to meet our Defence capability needs over the next decade,” Minister Pyne said.

“With a mix of small and large companies and long-term industry experts, it’s a board that will guide the CDIC to achieve its goals. Attending the first board meeting was a chance for me to explain the Government’s expectations: to bring Defence and Defence Industry together like never before, and to help businesses of all sizes work with Defence to boost the economy.”

“Board members are encouraged to reach out across Australian industry and equally, Australian industry are encouraged to use the Board to present ideas on how the CDIC can support industry to maximise the opportunities available.”

“The CDIC will be an integral part of building defence industry into a key pillar of the Australian Economy, a truly national endeavour.”

The Minister also released the CDIC Program Guidelines, which set out the framework for the operation and administration of the CDIC and provide guidance on eligibility for advice and facilitation services, and grants.

“The CDIC will open in early December and these guidelines are available now to allow Australian industry time to understand what the CDIC will be offering and prepare for commencement,” he said.

“The CDIC is a vital part of the Government’s defence industry policy agenda, and I want Industry to be ready to access the full range of services the CDIC will offer as soon as it commences,” Minister Pyne said.

To access a copy of the CDIC Program Guidelines, and to register for updates on the program, please visit www.business.gov.au/cdic