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

We've got the trifecta! There's great passion from Senator Henderson for Bendigo as well. Today I also announced that the ADF's new Australian-designed and Australian-built Hawkei light protected mobility vehicle will enter full-rate production—that is, 50 vehicles per month. Hawkei production, by Thales Australia, will sustain over 200 jobs in Bendigo and an additional 180 nationwide. Most importantly, the Hawkei will again better protect the lives of our Australian soldiers. Hawkei has provided vital business continuity for many small businesses in Victoria, particularly important during this time as Victoria deals with the COVID-19 outbreak. This is yet another wonderful example of Defence and Australian industry managing business practices in a COVID-safe environment so we can continue to deliver Australian ADF capability.