Enterprise Connect innovations to benefit Defence industry
The Defence Materials Technology Centre (DTMC) has welcomed today’s launch of the $21.2 million Enterprise Connect Defence Industry Innovation Centre.
Enterprise Connect, a national centre based in Dandenong, Victoria will assist Australian defence sector businesses respond to the unique challenges they face, including the very high demand for technological innovation.
DMTC CEO Dr Mark Hodge welcomed further strengthening of Australian Defence industry.
“DMTC programs provide a mechanism for defence industry businesses both large and small, and the research sector, to work closely with their primary end user – the Department of Defence – to develop and supply valuable technological and manufacturing advancements that are consistent with ADF requirements,” explained Dr Hodge.
“As such, Enterprise Connect will provide a real additional benefit to DMTC partners and non-partners alike. The connectivity and benchmarking services in particular will be of undoubted benefit to the sector.”
The Centre will be under the expert stewardship of Tony Quick, Centre Director and Chris Jenkins, current Managing Director of Thales, as Interim Advisory Board Chair. Mr Quick is also a Director of DMTC.
Enterprise Connect was launched by the Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr and the Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, Mr Greg Combet AM MP.
“The Government recognises that businesses across Australia operate in an increasingly integrated international marketplace. A key challenge in responding to this is their capacity to develop strategies to become more competitive in the global community,” Senator Carr said.
“Through this Centre, the Rudd Government is working with defence industry businesses to provide the tools and advice they need to become more productive, innovative and dynamic.”
Mr Combet said that the Department of Defence developed the Centre with the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.
“The new Centre offers a range of hands-on services for small to medium enterprises in the defence industry sector, including free business reviews and supporting grants to help boost productivity and support the Australian Defence Force (ADF),” Mr Combet said.
“The total Defence investment of $21.2 million shows the Rudd Government’s strong commitment to supporting Australia’s defence sector.
“It will help support defence small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to produce innovative products for the ADF and break into global supply chains.”
The Centre is part of the Rudd Government’s Enterprise Connect network that helps Australian SMEs boost their productivity, innovation and competitiveness.
Posted by DMTC on September 2nd, 2009