Supporting export ambitions of small Defence businesses

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP has announced more than $1.3 million in grant funding to boost the export capability of six Australian small businesses.

“The Defence Global Competitiveness Grant Program strengthens our growing internationally competitive industrial base and empowers Australia’s defence industry to achieve export success,” Minister Conroy said.

Victorian-based business The Smart Think Australia will use its $227,686 grant to expand its hard-armour production line by purchasing capital equipment to increase its manufacturing capability to meet international market demand.

Quantx Labs in South Australia will receive $240,000 to purchase new plant and equipment. The funding will help reduce commercial prices by allowing Quantx Labs to integrate miniaturised microwave strip line electronics into their technologies.

Queensland’s Safe Defence was awarded $237,942 to establish a manufacturing facility for a unique technology-driven update to the Stokes Type Litter medical stretcher.

Mymodular in South Australia will use its grant of $240,000 to acquire specialised plant and equipment to construct extra low voltage lighting systems with data transmission capability, enabling the company to bring manufacturing in-house.

South Australia’s Ezy-Fit Engineering Group was awarded $240,000 to implement a new honing capability to manufacture specialised marine classified hydraulic cylinders.

PFG Group in Tasmania will use its $211,996 grant to improve its manufacturing capability for international defence contracts. Work will include establishing a second fabrication line, upgrades to facility security and delivering staff training.

“The ability of these businesses to identify export opportunities in a global market experiencing rapid technological change is a testament to the innovative and dynamic character of Australia’s defence industry,” Minister Conroy said.

“Supporting these companies’ investment in new manufacturing capabilities or equipment allows them to meet the demands of international customers seeking a competitively priced product.”

Companies can apply for a Defence Global Competitiveness Grant at any time through www.business.gov.au/dgc.