Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

Thanks, Senator Abetz, for that question. We are investing $90 billion to create a national naval shipbuilding enterprise, not only to deliver a stronger and more resilient Australia but also to build a sovereign defence industry right here in Australia. This will deliver major strategic, economic and employment dividends for Australia but also for Australians for generations to come.

Unlike those opposite, our record stands proud and stands strong. We brought the air warfare destroyer and the Collins class back on track following Labor's failures during its times in government. We are exceeding targets for Australian industry content in the offshore patrol vessel program, which is already now over 60 per cent. We are delivering the sixth of 21 West Australian built Guardian class patrol boats committed to by this program. And, through our Hunter class program we are guaranteeing a continuous naval shipbuilding program here in Australia for generations to come.