THE Federal Government has signed a $41 million contract with Varley Group, Tomago, that it hopes will strengthen the Australian Defence Force’s deployable infrastructure capability, and create 80 new jobs in the NSW Hunter region.

Minister for Defence Peter Dutton said the contract signing secured critical upgrades that would support Defence personnel while on operations.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

The contract is part of a wider $89 million investment in the ADF’s deployable infrastructure capability.

The ADF uses deployable infrastructure for a range of operations, including during conflicts and disaster relief.

The Government’s investment will include upgrades to power generation, hygiene and essential catering, and the acquisition of new kennels for military working dogs.

“This investment will significantly upgrade capability and enhance the ADF’s ability to deploy rapidly on a wide range of operations, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, both domestically and internationally,” Minister Dutton said.

“We are committed to protecting our nation by equipping the ADF with modern capabilities to best meet future challenges.

“Sovereign defence manufacturing is a critical part of the Government’s commitment to keeping our region safe, while protecting our national and strategic interests in a rapidly changing global environment.”

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said the Varley deal would help maintain a strong defence industry in the Hunter.

“To see 80 new jobs in the Hunter region, specifically from this initiative, is a profound confirmation of the direction we have been taking in regards to a robust, self-reliant defence industry – right here in our own backyard.

“The acquisition and sustainment of these systems will create significant work for Australian businesses across the nation.

“I’m proud of the positive impacts that this $41 million contract and the wider $89 million acquisition investment in Australia’s defence capability is bringing to Australian industry.”

Australian industry will contribute to the project management, systems engineering, manufacture, modification, technical documentation, logistics and training elements of the project, and local networks and distributors will be used for the supply of sub-systems and components.