Defence and industry strengthened their partnership to deliver sovereign capability for the ADF at Land Forces 2026, held in Perth from October 6 to 8.

Defence leaders engaged with industry representatives, small and medium enterprises, and international partners to discuss how Defence and industry could work together to deliver capability faster, strengthen Australia’s sovereign defence industrial base and support the nation’s strategic priorities.

The annual expo was also used to launch the inaugural Sovereign Defence Industrial Priority development forum to support the implementation of the Defence Industry Development Strategy 2026.

Acting Deputy Secretary Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group Racheal Kuczma said Land Forces 2026 highlighted the importance of strong and enduring partnerships between Defence and industry.

“Australia’s strategic environment demands a strong and resilient sovereign defence industrial base capable of supporting Defence’s mission now and into the future,” Ms Kuczma said.

“The Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities cannot be Defence priorities alone. Their success depends on genuine partnership between Defence, industry and the broader national industrial ecosystem.

“By working together to identify opportunities, address barriers to growth and provide greater visibility of Defence’s long-term capability requirements, we can help build the sovereign industrial capacity and resilience Australia needs.”

For more information, visit the 2026 Defence Industry Development Strategy webpage.