Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Melissa Price MP, has officially launched the Office of Defence Industry Support (ODIS) in Brindabella Business Park, Canberra. The ODIS replaces the Centre for Defence Industry Capability as the one-stop shop for defence industry support and guidance.
ODIS will work with state and territory agencies, industry associations, small to medium sized businesses (SMEs), and Primes, to position defence industry to deliver capability to equip and sustain our Australian Defence Force. An ODIS office will be established in each state and territory.
Assistant Secretary for ODIS, Dr Kate Cameron, said ODIS would provide refocussed business support for the defence industry, creating a seamless experience for businesses to engage with Defence.
“Australian industry is being supported through a number of programs, pathways and capability development initiatives to ensure they meet Defence’s sovereign needs,” Dr Cameron said.
The core function of ODIS throughout its offices around Australia will be to provide advisory, guidance and mentoring services to SMEs.
“ODIS is the trusted link for Australian small and medium businesses looking to enter – or expand their footprint – in the defence industry.
“Industry engagement teams will travel to key areas across the country, delivering rolling programs at Mobile Defence Industry Hubs,” Dr Cameron said.
Industry can experience a full range of services and hear from experts. Targeted support will be made available to regional and Indigenous businesses.
“Business support will be tailored to the specific needs of each regional area, building upon the services provided by ODIS staff in each state and territory.
“This support will include indigenous outreach programs, with regional support based on consultation and analysis of specific requirements. ODIS can also provide dedicated support to regionally-based SMEs.
“As part of ODIS’ flexible and adaptable approach, regular reviews of key services will be conducted to ensure it is meeting the needs of Australian industry and Defence,” Dr Cameron said.
