Defence capabilities in the Illawarra

The Illawarra region and Wollongong have a proud and successful history of providing innovative technology and services to the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) and the global defence industry. The region has a well-developed ecosystem of organisations involved in defence procurement, research, and development for the industry. Notably, this area is also endowed with a skilled workforce, supported by the advanced research activities of the University of Wollongong and high-quality manufacturing facilities. For example, the armoured steel plates for the Collins-class submarines, Adelaide-class frigates and the Hobart-class Air Warfare Destroyer’ projects were manufactured in Wollongong. 

Steel manufacturing has been a core part of the Illawarra industry for decades. Many specialty steels for Defence were developed in Port Kembla, including rated ballistic plates and aircraft steel. In the 1940s, the famous Owen submachine gun was invented and produced in Wollongong. So, defence specialty steel production has been a rich part of the tapestry of our heritage, along with the innovation and skills base to support the steel. 

Today, across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven regions, local organisations provide a range of services supporting Defence, including engineering and maintenance activities, supply of assets and services, joint development facilities, education, development training, and research.