More than 50 speakers and panellists shared their expert insights, including the Australian Defence Force, Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart and Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AM.
Perth’s Optus Stadium was the venue as around 35 organisations showcased their capability, innovation and leading technology, seeking partnerships to deliver world-class, globally competitive defence and security products and services.
The conference featured domestic and international speakers and panellists from government, industry and academia.
They included Australia's Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh, Vice Admiral (ret.) Shekhar Sinha, who served in the Indian Navy for 42 years, BAE Systems Australia Chief Operating Officer Mr Darren Kirkby and the Indonesian Institute of Sciences Dr Dewi Fortuna Anwar.
Around 500 people attended the two day conference, with the theme 'Beyond Transits: The emerging security relevance of the Indian Ocean' recognising the security challenges facing communities that depend on the Indian Ocean for transit and trade.
The conference was organised by the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation through Defence West , in partnership with the Perth USAsia Centre and the UWA Defence and Security Institute.
Defence activity contributes an estimated $3 billion to Western Australia’s economy every year.
The Western Australian Government supports the defence industry and innovators helping to grow the economy and diversify the economy by supporting and creating industries that deliver new jobs for the state.
The extensive conference program explored the implications of current local and geopolitical issues for the defence and security sectors, discussing outcomes from the establishment of AUKUS.
Western Australian Police Force showcased their innovative, world-leading capabilities and technology, including Nearme4cops, SILVA Hub and BW.
Also attending were personnel from the defence domains of land, air, maritime and space.
Previously known as the WA Indo-Pacific Defence Conference, this was the first time the State's flagship defence and security conference had been held since the COVID-19 pandemic.
