Kongsberg Defence Australia (KONGSBERG) has signed a contract with Tandem Building Group to construct their new purpose-built facility, located in Mawson Lakes, South Australia.
“After the completion of an Early Contractor Involvement phase, we are delighted to engage Adelaide-based Tandem Building Group, a defence sector delivery leader in South Australia," John Fry, General Manager of Kongsberg Defence Australia confirmed. "The construction of our 2500 sqm dedicated facility marks an important milestone for KONGSBERG in Australia.
"This is an exciting period of growth for us and this A$15 million investment demonstrates our commitment to supporting local production and sustainment activities on current and planned Defence programs."
Minister for Trade and Investment, Nick Champion said he is is delighted local, Adelaide-based companies have been selected to undertake the design and construction of Kongsberg Defence Australia’s new facility.
“This is a significant project for our Defence sector in South Australia and for Australian more widely," Champion said. "It is pleasing to see a company of such international standing, choosing local companies to construct their new, purpose-built facility.
"South Australia’s construction industry has a fantastic reputation for delivering work of the highest quality and this project will put significant dollars into our local economy. I congratulate Tandem Building Group on being selected for this exciting project.”
This project will have 70-130 South Australians on site at any one stage, with approximately 30 South Australian companies engaged throughout the project duration, according to KONGSBERG.
“Tandem Building Group is extremely grateful for the opportunity to be involved in this exciting and meaningful project, and we are looking forward to collaborating with KONGSBERG to deliver the first of their purpose-built defence facilities in the country," Operations Manager (SA), Nick Riddell said. "It has come at a great time as our industry continues to be engulfed in uncertainty. Knowing corporations such as KONGSBERG are investing in our state continues to strengthen South Australia’s claim as being Australia’s ‘defence state’, ultimately increasing our state's opportunity to receive future investments.
"This project also gives us the opportunity to continue to grow our business and offer employment to new staff, as well as develop the next generation of our industry. The roll-on effect will also result in additional jobs being available in South Australia at this new facility when it is completed.
"Our experienced team cannot wait for ground-breaking on this project and are working closely with the team from KONGSBERG to ensure a smooth transition from design phase to construction phase.’
Together with Tandem Building Group, Kongsberg Defence Australia is also partnering with local South Australian companies, Parkside-based Section Six Architects, and Adelaide-based Norman Disney & Young.
Site mobilisation has commenced, with plans for the facility to be fully occupied and operational by early 2024.