Budget overview
The Government’s economic plan to ensure Australia continues to successfully transition from the mining investment boom to a stronger, more diversified, new economy.
Transforming our defence industry
The Government has set out a 20 year plan to transform Defence and keep Australia and Australians safe and secure
Investing in defence
The 2016 Defence White Paper builds a more capable force to protect our interests and a stronger partnership with Australian industry.
It provides an additional $29.9 billion for Defence and brings investment in capability to an unprecedented $195 billion over the decade to 2025-26. This includes new naval capabilities such as:
- 12 new regionally-superior submarines;
- 9 future frigates; and
- 12 offshore patrol vessels.
The future submarine project is the largest and most complex defence acquisition Australia has ever undertaken.
Building submarines, frigates, offshore patrol vessels and Pacific patrol boats in Australia will directly secure over 3,600 jobs as well as thousands more jobs through the supply chain.
It will also ensure Australia retains a sovereign capability to build and sustain its naval vessels.
The Government is committed to maximising opportunities for Australian businesses to deliver these essential military capabilities.
The White Paper provides $1.6 billion to build industry competitiveness and skills while harnessing Australian innovation and expertise.
This Budget also provides $686 million for continued military operations to help protect Australia.
Cyber security
Cyber security is vital to our economic and national security.
This Budget provides $195 million to deliver a comprehensive cyber security strategy for Australia, which builds on the $38 million announced in the National Innovation and Science Agenda.
