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Aerospace Training Service (ATS) is a Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Maintenance Training Organisation (MTO) and a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) delivering a range of aircraft maintenance engineering courses from the National Aeroskills Training Package. ATS also provides CASA aircraft specific types courses, such as the Learjet 35/36. In addition to this training, ATS is a NSW Smart and Skilled Apprenticeship Training Provider, currently training apprentices across the state.
ATS learners have a wide range of delivery mode choices including face-to-face (F2F) classroom, structured online (real-time webinars), and self-study options. This delivery range allows ATS to customise theory and practical training and assessment to suit each individual client.
GDS – Jeromy Bendall
+61 448 567 062
jbendall@alkath.group
Mellori – David Devine
+61 447 452 058
ddevine@alkath.group
RLS – Julia Guy
+61 412 395 047
jguy@alkath.group
The Alkath Group is an Australian owned and operated holding company based in the Shoalhaven on the South Coast of NSW. Incorporating Global Defence Solutions, Mellori Solutions and Resilience Logistics Solutions. Over the past 25 years, we have grown from a small family-run business to a medium enterprise with over 80 talented staff members and connections across the globe. Our people are dedicated to creating meaningful and innovative solutions for Australia’s defence and emergency services communities.
AMDA Foundation Limited
PO Box 339
North Geelong, Victoria, Australia 3215
+61 (0)3 5282 0500
foundation@amda.com.au
AMDA Foundation Limited delivers Australia’s largest and most prominent international defence and aerospace industry expositions, programs and airshows, including the Avalon Australian International Airshow and Airshows Downunder Shellharbour.
AMDA is a not-for-profit foundation, registered under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act, with no shareholders, no investors and no intent to pursue profit for its own sake.
AMDA’s mission is to promote the development of Australian industrial, manufacturing and information and communications technology and resources, in the fields of:
Mitchell Heffernan Managing Director
02 4677 2613
Mobile 0417 432 950
Arex Pty Ltd is a 100% Australian Company, offering competitive advantage design & manufacturing services to the Defence Industry. Complex CNC 5 Axis automated machining capabilities. 3D, CAD, FEA, POLYWORKS Engineering Software. Full Traceability & QA Compliance – AS9100D Certification pending. DISP Approved – Arex Is committed to become your advanced industrial defence manufacturing partner.
Arex has highly skilled Mechanical Engineers, CNC Machine Programmers, CNC Operators, Fabricators/Welders & Painters.
ISO9001-2015
Welding Certifications AS1554-2014 – Steel, Stainless, alloys
AS4041 – 2006 – Pre & Post weld heat treatment
Full MDR Available
DISP Approved
Arex will continue investing in competitive advantages’ to the sector as opportunities arise.
Rob McNeil
Manager Special Projects – Global Access Program, Training Solution Architect
+61 419 033 737
robert.mcneil@baesystems.com
BAE Systems Australia has a long and proud heritage of providing advanced defence technology which protects both people and national security, keeping critical information and infrastructure secure. We search for new ways to provide our customers with a competitive edge across the air, maritime, land and cyber domains.
From air and maritime sustainment to ship building, BAE Systems Australia’s strengths and core capabilities include providing the design, manufacture, upgrade and support services to the Australian Defence Force (ADF), cyber intelligence and commercial organisations across the country.
Australian Industry Capability Team
bdasupplychain@boeing.com
Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) is integral to the region’s defence industry. What sets us apart is our entire program lifecycle expertise combined with an enduring commitment to a strong Australian defence industry. We deliver best-for-capability solutions including advanced communication systems, integrated mission systems and sustain more aircraft types than any other defence contractor.
BDA’s world-leading Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS) was set up at HMAS Albatross at Nowra, New South Wales to support the Royal Australian Navy Fleet Air Arm 723 Squadron to train generations of Navy and Army aircrew transitioning to Australia’s future combat helicopters.
Along with industry partner, Thales Australia, HATS has ensured all Navy and Army aircrew are trained to the highest standards as they move to their operational units.
David Bridge – CEO
Smartspace, Innovation Campus, North Wollongong, NSW 2500
+61 421 588 658
david.bridge@bpsdefence.com.au
BPS Defence is an Australian Owned ‘sovereign project management services’ organisation undertaking both ‘above and below the line’ project delivery on behalf of CASG, various MSP’s and Prime Contractors.
Our project delivery experience includes JOINT, SEA, LAND and AIR domain experience. We are well versed with ASDEFCON.
BPS Defence can deploy project managers, project schedulers, product managers, risk, cost estimation and modelling, training and development and system engineers.
We offer a Concierge service to assist in implementing our domestic and international Client’s business growth strategies, including for example, networking, introductions, representation, navigating regulatory requirements, strategy, and business case development, and establishing a local footprint.
Call us!
(02) 9466 4620
info@businessillawarra.com
Business Illawarra is the region’s peak business organisation. We’re a not-for-profit advocacy group dedicated to the economic development of the Illawarra.
Business Illawarra supports businesses across the Illawarra-Shoalhaven as well the South Coast and Capital regions. The Illawarra region covers the local government areas of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven, and Wingecarribee.
On behalf of our members, we develop policy, advocate to all levels of government on issues affecting businesses, undertake research to guide greater public and private sector investment in economic infrastructure, and support the development of workforce capacity and skills in our region.
Ben Green Operations Manager
+61 418 167 677
beng@dcleng.com.au
DCL Engineering Group has been servicing industry in mechanical breakdown repairs
and engineering for 64 years. The company has three branches, located in Wollongong,
Fairfield and Newcastle with a team of experienced professionals using state-of-the-art
equipment and technologies.
At DCL we are a service company who create solutions for improving our clients’ asset
production and equipment, tailoring every operational requirement to achieve better asset
outcomes. With decades of experience supporting our innovative approach with a dedicated
team, our team is able to deliver unique solutions to the highest standard.
DCL has been servicing customers from a diverse range of industries such as mining,
steel, materials handling, food, confectionery and defence for decades. The combination of
experienced staff, extensive range of machinery and equipment gives DCL the competitive
edge as a complete one stop Mechanical Repair and Engineering Services company.
Harry Baxter, Head of Government Relations – DMTC Limited
+61 401 516 734
harry.baxter@dmtc.com.au
Capability through collaboration: DMTC is a not-for-profit company that designs, manages and leads multi-party R&D initiatives that deliver enhanced defence and national security capabilities, and strengthen Australia’s industrial capacity. Operating at the nexus of government, industry and the research sector, DMTC brings an integrated perspective of national innovation, science and technology ecosystems, coupled with technical expertise across maritime, hypersonic and health security mission spaces, to name only a few.
The DMTC model places a premium on home-grown capability and know-how, focussing strategically on avenues for Australian industry to demonstrate asymmetric advantage, with the strong backing of world-class domestic research.
Dave Hager
Project Director – Defence Support
2/57 Graham St
Nowra NSW 2541
(02) 4424 4935
Dave.Hager@ghd.com
GHD recognises and understands the world is constantly changing. We are committed to solving the world’s biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanisation.
We are a global professional services company that leads through engineering, construction and architectural expertise. Our forward-looking, innovative approaches connect and sustain communities around the world. Delivering extraordinary social and economic outcomes, we are focused on building lasting relationships with our partners and clients.
Established in 1928, we remain wholly owned by our people. We are 10,000+ diverse and skilled individuals connected by over 200 offices, across five continents – Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America, and the Pacific region.
GHD’s Nowra office is one of many regional offices, supporting Defence and industry with engineers, scientists and project managers on a variety of projects.
Jeromy Bendall
+61 448 567 062
jbendall@alkath.group
Global Defence Solutions (GDS), a part of Alkath Group, is an Australian owned company with headquarters in South Nowra, NSW. GDS supplies a range of deployable infrastructure to the Australian Defence Force (ADF), Government Organisations and the Space Industry. Highly mobile and endlessly versatile, our range of deployable force infrastructure includes catering and
hygiene systems, advanced water reuse systems, containerised shelter systems, soft shelters systems, climate control and lighting and power distribution. GDS brings the benefits of direct access to highly established networks of trusted manufacturers, suppliers and industry experts. With deployable capabilities incorporating both hard and soft shelters, every solution is custom-built to meet the militaries specific requirements. GDS has a fully equipped repair and overhaul facility in-house, and also provides on-site maintenance as required. Training is provided both in-house and on-site ensuring the ADF get full ROI from their equipment.
Trent Hilaire
Founder / Creative Director
+61 478 775 477
trent@hilltoair.com
Hill To Air is a leading, Australian-owned video production company that specializes in media development, strategy, and creation. Their team of qualified experts in video production, photography, and Aerial/drone technology offers personalised services that meet the unique needs and demands of their clients. They work with tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers to produce compelling narratives, images, and material.
Their proficiency with drone technology allows them to take breathtaking aerial pictures and videos used for marketing, advertising, and media content. They cater to the defence, construction, and corporate industries.
Hill To Air is dedicated to supporting the regional economy and providing job opportunities for Australians. Their customer-centric approach has earned them a loyal customer base.
In summary, Hill To Air is an Australian-owned company that offers personalised services specialising in media development, strategy, and creation for the defence, construction, and corporate industries. Their expertise in drone technology has made them a leader in the industry, and their dedication to supporting the regional economy has earned them a loyal customer base.
Bianca Perry – Chief Executive Officer
+61 401 030 023
i3net@i3net.com.au
i3net, is your gateway to the Illawarra’s vast range of manufacturers, engineering service providers and industrial suppliers servicing the defence sector. The powerful network provides your link to a diverse range of defence ready capabilities.
Our 100+ members represent some of the largest companies in Australia & all the way through to SMEs and supply organisations, with over 25,000 employees.
i3net fosters relationships between members that leads to collaboration, knowledge sharing, innovation, and the ability to deliver world-class industrial solutions in products and services.
The network actively seeks out new market opportunities for individual members and opportunities where member collectives and partnerships can combine their resources and gain a competitive advantage.
Invest Wollongong is a long term strategic partnership between the NSW Government, University of Wollongong and Wollongong City Council with the goal of attracting new business, investment and jobs to Wollongong by promoting Wollongong as a superior location in key target sectors.
Invest Wollongong can help with:
The Invest Wollongong website has a number of key resources and information for prospective businesses looking to locate in Wollongong. For further information about Invest Wollongong or to read our Defence Industry Prospectus visit their website.
Stuart Ward Sales and Marketing Manager
16 – 18 Doyle Avenue Unanderra NSW
4260 7777
stuartw@leussink.com.au
Leussink is a state-of-the-art engineering business with over 40 years’ experience and an ever-growing range of capabilities. Whether you are looking for machining of bespoke components, or require a project manufactured to turn-key level, Leussink will leverage its world-class thinking, skills and reputation for each application, regardless of the required scope of work.
As a second-generation family-owned business, Leussink has been providing complete design, fabrication, and machining services and solutions for all industry sectors spanning over four decades. Our company is firmly focused on modernising and revolutionising workshops and production facilities around Australia through the creation of tailored welding and fixturing systems.
Mellori – David Devine
+61 447 452 058
ddevine@alkath.group
Mellori Solutions, a part of Alkath Group, is an Australian owned company with headquarters in South Nowra, NSW. Mellori is a provider of Electronic Warfare (EW) testing and training services to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and their partners. Testing – Independent testing and customised threat simulations that push the boundaries of mission-critical systems and personnel. Training – Arming key personnel with enhanced capability and operational understanding of core electromagnetic systems through controlled and real-world EW training environments. Technology – Pioneering future-facing sovereign EW hardware and software solutions to enhance safety and asset protection in response to known and future threat scenarios.
John Giffard, Managing Director
john.giffard@opstar.com.au
OPSTAR is an Australian owned and operated, medium sized enterprise based in Nowra NSW. We deliver exemplar operational support services nationally in complex and high risk environments. From search and rescue (SAR) to critical infrastructure protection and medical response services – OPSTAR provides a fundamental capability brick to government and Defence Industry operations.
We take a systems approach to design and deliver best in class services in our areas of expertise. Our specialist operational staff including paramedics, firefighters, SAR technicians and Aviation Operations Officers; along with their equipment, consumables and proven procedures, provide a turnkey capability.
1 Garadi Street Yerriyong NSW 2540
LA.info@leonardo.com
Leonardo has been active in Australia since 1885 with the delivery of 30 torpedos to Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Today, Leonardo is a key player in Aerospace, Defence and Security solutions, with a significant in-country base of installed equipment across Australia and operating sites in Melbourne, Perth and Nowra.
In 2020 Leonardo Australia acquired local company Partech Systems, a leader in the provision of avionics test and repair solutions for the most complex aviation platforms. The Leonardo site in Nowra continues to provide avionics and electronics test equipment for the defence and civil aviation sectors, as well as advanced engineering and maintenance services for helicopter and naval communications. Leonardo Australia designs and manufactures automatic test system (ATS) test program sets (TPS) and special to type test equipment (STTE) required to test, repair and qualify avionics components for flight.
Call: 1300 129 465
Email: info@provocatus.com.au
Provocatus, an Australian and Veteran Owned medical and pharmaceutical company, is dedicated to addressing the unique health challenges faced by veterans. Our Veteran Access Scheme TM provides comprehensive support through four pillars: Medications, Appliances, Clinical Wellness, and Health Education. Launched in February 2022, the scheme offers veterans immediate access to essential treatments, including plant medicine for chronic conditions, at no cost or subsidised rates. By focusing on regaining health and wellbeing, Provocatus empowers veterans to lead healthier lives. We collaborate closely with healthcare providers and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to ensure veterans receive the best possible care.
Nowra-based QinetiQ Air Affairs is a key component of QinetiQ’s global Threat Representation and Test & Evaluation capability.
QAA operates a fleet of Learjet and King Air aircraft which are used for mission rehearsal, target towing and various other roles, including fire scanning and aeromedical evacuation. The company also manufactures and operates Phoenix drones, targets and reeling machines that are used by Australian and allied defence forces for threat simulation.
The Advanced Manufacturing Centre is QAA’s well-appointed and purpose-built facility in the Shoalhaven with the capability for end-to-end manufacturing of high quality specialist parts for defence and aviation projects.
Local Contact Details
Albatross Aviation Technology Park
39 Wugan Street Yerriyong, NSW, 2540
+61 2 4428 4000
General Enquiries & Community Relations: Email
Raytheon Australia is a capability partner for Australia’s Defence, delivering whole-of-life solutions to the Australian Defence Force. Since its establishment in 1999, Raytheon Australia has committed to developing a truly sovereign workforce and comprehensive defence capability for Australia.
Our team of 1,500 employees, which includes over 700 engineers and technicians, successfully deliver on a range of diverse programs in Joint Battlespace Systems, Space and Mission Systems, Above Water Systems, Under Water Systems and Weapons.
Our commitment to developing Australian Industry Capability is engrained across all of our programs, as is our investment in creating domestic and export opportunities for Australian SMEs.
Raytheon Australia has had a longstanding presence in the Shoalhaven region with our current Joint Adversarial Training & Testing (JATTS) program providing jobs for over 100 people in the region. This team deliver airborne electronic warfare, aerial opposing force, aerial targets, and training and testing services to the ADF.
PO Box 1152
Wollongong NSW 2500
(02) 4258 3610
admin@rdais.com.au
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven connects and collaborates with regional stakeholders to identify and convert new opportunities for economic development in the Illawarra Shoalhaven. We are part of a federally funded national network whose primary purpose is to advocate for place-based decision making, informed by an understanding of our region’s unique strengths, economic opportunities, and challenges. Our region comprises of four local government areas and is the third largest economy in NSW supported by an estimated population of more than 427,300 people across a total land area of 5,656 square kilometres.
RSL LifeCare Limited
124 Wallace Street
VS Nowra NSW 2541
Wellbeing Centre Manager
M: 0472 761 113
Lesley.Labka@rsllifecare.org.au
RSL LifeCare is a not-for-profit organisation, serving Australian veterans and their families for over 110 years. The Nowra Veteran Wellbeing Centre offers veterans and their families a variety of support and wellbeing services including DVA claims and advocacy, financial, and employment assistance. The Centre is used by a range of partner organisations and facilitates events and opportunities for social connection amongst the serving and ex-serving veteran community. In 2023, we had over 2,900 veterans or visitors check in to our centres, taking part in more than 160 events with over 6,500 attendees, including social celebrations, fitness sessions, art classes, and more.
Schiebel Pacific Pty Ltd (SPL), the Australian subsidiary of the Vienna-based Schiebel Group, focuses on the development, testing and production of the revolutionary CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS). SPL is backed by Schiebel’s international reputation for quality defence products and exceptional after-sales services. The Australian base provides the Pacific region with a permanent and comprehensive program, logistics and sales hub, demonstrating a commitment to the local industry.
Shellharbour City Council’s excellent model of financial sustainability is closely linked to its implementation of economic strategies that have consistently delivered financial and social benefits for our community.
Council’s Business Enterprise team is focused on increasing economic activity within the region both directly through Council’s business assets and indirectly through advocacy and strategic value creation.
Some of the key opportunities Council is currently assessing include:
Please reach out to Council’s Strategic City Business Development Officer should you wish to find out more about how Shellharbour City Council can help your business or if you want to join us and invest in Shellharbour.
General Enquiries
Local Business Resources
+61 2 4423 3582
The Shoalhaven Business Chamber (SBC) is proud to represent members from the business, government, education, and not-for-profit sectors. Our focus is on events, advocacy and opportunity.
We are committed to fostering:
We are proud to partner with the defence and manufacturing industries in our region as valued members of our local economy and community.
Economic Development Team
(02) 4429 3111
Shoalhaven City Council is a Local Government Area that stretches from Kangaroo Valley/Berry in the North, to Durras North in the South. Within Council’s City Futures Directorate is the Economic Development Team, who have a primary goal of enhancing the region’s economy as well as forming part of the Steering Committee for the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Defence Network. The Economic Development Team can provide support and information services including:
General Enquiries
The Shoalhaven Professional Business Association, (spba), actively drives the growth of the Shoalhaven professional sector; facilitating networking opportunities as well as offering mentoring and development programs.
The spba is the driving force in retaining, developing, and attracting professionals to the region.
It is made up of a diverse range of professional industry members, including; defence, allied health, education, legal, finance, marketing, human resources, government and many more.
Through bespoke programs and initiatives, the spba plays a significant role in developing local professionals, as well as supporting and welcoming those moving to the area.
Cliff Kyle – General Manager
+61 2 4424 5300
sikorskyaustralia.gr@lmco.com
At Sikorsky Australia, your mission is our mission. We strive to deliver the highest quality Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul, Logistics and Training services wherever and whenever it’s needed.
Sikorsky Australia strives to be the industry leader in rotary wing aircraft support, and we’ll continue to innovate our approach to meet the needs of Defence in support of their mission.
Sikorsky Australia’s Nowra operation is dedicated to providing full sustainment solutions which includes operational, intermediate and deeper level maintenance, training and total logistics support for the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
Louise Smeets – Managing Director
21 Durnabah Drive
Woollamia NSW 2540
(02) 4441 6693
info@smetecservices.com.au
Located in Huskisson on the south coast of NSW, SMETEC Services is a proud veteran owned & run company specialising in material processing and product design services.
SMETEC offers a variety of services including:
Laser & Waterject Cutting, 3D Scanning & Industrial Printing, CMM Part Qualification, Machining. Also Sheet Metal Services including Welding & Drafting Services.
Offering everything from one-off services, to multiple part production, our unique approach to industry allows the team to meet every customer’s needs.
SMETEC is ISO27001 & ISO9001 certified and also has DISP membership.
Frank Soto – Managing Director
Frank.Soto@soto.com.au
Mobile +61 418 165 578
Direct +61 2 4253 8634
Jim Allan – Chief Operating Officer
Jim.Allan@soto.com.au
Mobile +61 429 165 578
Direct +61 2 4253 8639
SOTO Consulting Engineers, headquartered in Wollongong, is a prominent provider of cutting-edge design engineering solutions. Our robust engineering design capabilities empower major defence engineering contractors to provide advanced shipbuilding and fleet sustainment solutions for the next generation. In a world where speed, innovation, and resilience are paramount, SOTO is prepared for the demands of Defence.
Troy Creighton – Managing Director
22 Norfolk Avenue
South Nowra, NSW, 2541
(02) 4423 1989
troy@stormtech.com.au
Stormtech is a specialist in stainless steel fabrication, with capacity to process 20t of stainless steel per month from sheet/coil/profile and tube to finished product.
Stormtech is an award winning and innovative company and is a world leader in the production grates and drains used in sanitary and civil drainage, from aircraft handling areas to showers.
Compliant to ISO9001
WaterMark 2018
CSA (North American equivalent of WaterMark)
ASSDA member
Offering everything from one-off services, to multiple part production, our unique approach to industry allows the team to meet every customer’s needs.
SMETEC is ISO27001 & ISO9001 certified and also has DISP membership.
(02) 4424 0364
explore@thinkregional.com.au
Think Regional is designed to elevate the employment brand of Regional Australia by showcasing the career pathways available for Regional Career Builders. Think Regional’s website currently features ‘South Coast’ Employers, their unique value proposition, and open opportunities. It aims to ensure regional career opportunities are as well known, understood, and attractive as those in metro areas, so that regional businesses have the people skills, capabilities and capacity to realise their fullest potential. We invite other Industry Bodies and Regional Employers to partner with us and reinforce the message that you really can have it all in Regional Australia. Get in touch with us today to find out more.
Paul Di Pietro
University of Wollongong
Northfields Avenue,
Wollongong 2522
(02) 4221 4887
The University of Wollongong (UOW) is helping link Defence with industry and academia through its strong presence in Defence-related research and training and maritime security. UOW is a founding member of the Defence Materials Technology Centre (DMTC).
The Facility for Intelligent Fabrication (FIF) is a collaboration between UOW, TAFE NSW and Weld Australia. To ensure the international competitiveness of the Australian fabrication industry, the FIF was established to be a one-stop-shop where it demonstrates Industry 4.0 technologies such as robotics, smart sensors, augmented reality, machine learning and automated offline programming. The FIF also provides training and certification for the manufacturing sector.
UOW forms a critical part of the estimated $1.3 billion contract awarded to Thales Australia on automated robotic solutions for the manufacture of the Bushmaster and Hawkei land vehicles. BlueScope Steel and Bisalloy Steels also draw on the experience of UOW to work on providing steels specifically designed to suit the construction of Australia’s future maritime platforms.
UOW has established an Industry 4.0 Hub in the Shoalhaven to specifically provide access to information, training, technology demonstrations and a link to UOW expertise and capabilities. This ecosystem provides a setting to learn about, workshop and implement Industry 4.0 principles such as (but not limited to) robotics, digital twins, smart systems, augmented and virtual reality. UOW Industry 4.0 Hub is working with local organisations such as Mellori and GDS.
