DEFENCE EXPORT GRANTS HELP SMALL BUSINESSES THINK GLOBAL

The Morrison Government has awarded $1.85 million in grants to small businesses looking to expand overseas, as part of a strategic approach to growing Australia’s defence exports.

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Melissa Price MP, announced the 13 grant recipients at the Defence Industry and Innovation Day held at Australia House in London on Monday ahead of the major defence tradeshow, Defence Security & Equipment International (DSEI). 

“The Defence Global Competitiveness Grants help Australian small businesses to build their export capability, which presents new opportunities in overseas markets,” Minister Price said.

“Importantly, helping small businesses become ‘export-ready’ means they can take up opportunities to help them grow and create more Australian jobs.” 

The Morrison Government is investing up to $4.1 million each year under the Defence Global Competiveness Grants program, a key initiative of the Defence Export Strategy.  

Gold Coast company Craig International Ballistics – one of the companies in London attending DSEI – will use its grant to adapt its composite body armour systems to meet the needs of international markets and customers, and is already enjoying success in the UK. 

Another member of the Team Defence Australia delegation, Defendtex, will use the grant to purchase specialised equipment which will enable it scale up production at its Melbourne facility. 

“This is a great example of the Morrison Government providing real assistance to help Australian businesses grow by accessing new export markets,” Minister Price said.