The state government has signed a deal with Rolls Royce to support Victoria’s defence industry.
On Tuesday, 4 November, Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Minister Colin Brooks signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd (RRS) at the Indo Pacific 2025 International Maritime Exposition in Sydney.
Under the deal, RRS will bolster Victoria’s defence industry by facilitating supply chain opportunities for Victorian companies and supporting Victoria’s contribution to the AUKUS nuclear -submarine agreement by developing workforce skills and technology.
“This agreement with Rolls-Royce will help us support our defence sector and the 29,000 jobs it backs,” Mr Books said.
“This partnership capitalises on Victoria’s strengths as a knowledge powerhouse and will drive further investment in our state.”
RRS president Steve Carlier said the agreement would combine Victoria’s research and innovation capabilities with Rolls Royce’s nuclear expertise.
“This agreement allows us to support Australia in establishing a sustainable supply chain in-country, while developing home-grown nuclear talent and well-paid careers for Australian people,” Mr Carlier said.
Rolls-Royce has powered the UK Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines for more than 65 years and is expanding its Derby site to support UK and Australian defence programs.
As part of the AUKUS agreement between Australia, the UK and US, RRS will provide the nuclear energy infrastructure to power the submarines.
