Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

That is a very good question. Our sovereign naval shipbuilding strategy is underpinned by our decision on the Hunter class Future Frigates. This is a $35 billion program which will create at least 1,500 direct jobs and another 2,500 jobs throughout the supply chain right across the country. It will create significant opportunities for businesses large and small, both locally and globally. It will also guarantee Australia's naval shipbuilding sovereignty by ensuring that ASC Shipbuilding will become a strategic national asset capable of independently designing, developing and leading the construction of complex, large naval warships.

The Future Frigates program is another example of our government's commitment to maximise Australian industry content in our military capability, ensuring that we deliver for Australian workers and Australian businesses. I also note that BAE Systems has already pre-qualified over 500 Australian companies— (Time expired)