Former Minister for Defence David Johnston has been appointed as the first Australian Defence Export Advocate.
The role will provide international advocacy on behalf of local defence industry to help secure export sales and contracts.
Minister for Defence Industry, Christopher Pyne, congratulated Mr Johnston on his appointment and looked forward to working closely with him to help secure export successes for Australia’s defence industry.
“This appointment will greatly expand the Government’s reach in promoting Australia’s world class defence industry,” Minister Pyne said.
“As a former Minister for Defence, Mr Johnston brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of Australian defence industry to this significant role.”
Minister Pyne said the Bushmaster vehicles are one example of an Australian defence industry success.
“I work tirelessly to advocate for Australian industries looking to sell their world class defence materiel to our friends and allies but I can’t be everywhere. Our Defence Export Advocate will help connect Australian industry to overseas governments and defence forces, build relationships in our key markets and act as a focal point for long term campaigns.”
“An exporting company is better able to expand and employ more.”
“As the first Australian Defence Export Advocate, Mr Johnston will also work closely with the Australian Defence Export Office to provide senior advocacy.”
The creation of the new position provides a more permanent and proactive advocacy capability to support Australian defence industry’s efforts internationally.