BLUF
The article argues that Australia must build a self-reliant defence industry by 2035, mandating minimum SME participation and cutting red tape to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and strengthen national security and economic resilience.Learning Outcomes:
- Understand why self-reliance in defence industry is vital for Australia’s sovereignty and resilience.
- Identify barriers faced by Australian Small-Medium Enterprises and proposed procurement reforms.
- Recognise how defence industry investment strengthens national capability and economic growth.
