Latest Australian defence industry facility opens in Geelong

Some of the world’s most advanced defence capabilities will be produced in Geelong, with the Hanwha Defence Australia’s Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence (H-ACE) officially opening today.

Construction of the facility was undertaken by national construction group, Built. The delivery of the first phase of this facility has created approximately 100 new local jobs. 

The delivery of 129 locally built infantry fighting vehicles alone at Hanwha’s H-ACE is forecast to support approximately 2,100 jobs inclusive of 1,800 direct jobs.

The H-ACE will provide critical facilities supporting the production and sustainment of tracked armoured vehicles, including multiple assembly lines, a 1200-metre test track, a deep-water test facility, an obstacle course and a research and development centre. 

This will include the production of self-propelled howitzers, armoured ammunition resupply vehicles and the Redback infantry fighting vehicle. 

The H-ACE will see Australian manufacturing provide protection for Australian soldiers and bolster Army’s capabilities. 

Australian industry will contribute to the enduring sustainment of the capability and the delivery of ancillary supplies including munitions, spares, facilities and communication systems.

Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, the Hon Richard Marles MP:

“This is the state of the art facility right here in Geelong, providing well paid, secure jobs, all the while manufacturing key capabilities for Australia’s Army. 

“Approximately 100 local jobs were created during the construction phase of this facility- creating a boost for the Geelong economy.

“The Republic of Korea is an important partner to Australia, and today’s opening of the H-ACE reflects the strong government and industry collaboration between our two countries.

“This facility establishes a sovereign production and maintenance capability while allowing Australian companies to participate in the global supply chain, supporting local jobs and Australian defence industry.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, the Hon. Pat Conroy:

“The acquisition of armoured vehicles is part of the Government’s modernisation of the Australian Army to ensure it can respond to our challenging strategic circumstances.

“Building armoured vehicles locally will support thousands of high-skilled jobs across the industry and support Australia’s strategic imperative to develop sovereign defence manufacturing capabilities.

“This is part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to keeping Australians safe while also supporting a future made in Australia.”