DefenceTech in Australia is evolving. What was once a sector focused solely on traditional defence systems now includes climate resilience, advanced logistics, cybersecurity, AI and next-generation communications. It’s an industry filled with potential to shape a safer, smarter future for all Australians.
At the heart of this growth is a mix of science, research and collaboration. From universities to startups and established businesses, people across design, manufacturing, education and logistics are helping to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Recent stats from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show the defence industry has grown by 12.4% over the past year, adding $1.3 billion to the sector. More than 5,500 Australian businesses across the country contributed to this growth, with the highest activity coming from professional services, manufacturing and education.
New programs are also emerging nationwide to support DefenceTech startups. These initiatives help founders across investment, mentorship and pathways to commercialisation. We’ve seen this with Sydney startup Visionary Machines, which raised $3.5 million from investors including Folklore Venture, OIF and Thorney. Additionally, AI robotics startup Breaker secured $2 million in pre-seed funding as it now expands into the US.
As momentum builds across the country, Queensland is stepping up too. The Precinct is proud to play a role in fostering these conversations and opportunities through its upcoming event: Future of DefenceTech.
Next month, The Precinct will host Future of DefenceTech – an industry insight event designed to explore how defence technologies are delivering real-world impact. The event aims to shine a light on the growing number of opportunities for innovators to contribute to the sector.
“We’re seeing a shift in energy across the sector. People from different industries are realising they have something valuable to offer. This event is about exploring those possibilities and sparking new conversations.” – Holly Hudson, The Precinct
Keynote speaker, Vu Tran, co-founder of Go1, will share his journey into defence innovation through his new venture, Black Sky Industries. He’ll unpack what the future of defence could look like and the growing role of government in supporting new players.
The afternoon will also feature a panel with Vu Tran, Peta Ellis, General Manager at Beaten Zone Venture Partners, and Stephen Bornstein, Managing Director at Athena AI. The discussion will dive into innovation, challenge assumptions and highlight what’s on the horizon.
Curious about the future of DefenceTech? Come along and be part of the conversation.
📆 Wednesday 20 August, 12-3pm
📍Hosted on Level 2 @ The Precinct, 315 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley
🚀 Keen to be part of the action? Apply to pitch your defence startup here before 5pm Friday 8th August
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The Precinct is an initiative supported by the Queensland Government.
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The Precinct acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as the First Nation custodians of the lands where we work, learn and connect. We pay respects to their Elders, Lores, Customs, and Creation Spirits and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia’s first innovators, entrepreneurs and scientists