Morrison Government backs VIC business to improve our maritime security

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The Hon Melissa Price MP

Minister for Defence Industry

Minister for Science and Technology


Media contacts

Ben Spencer (Minister Price’s office): +61 412 754 310

Steve Kuper (Minister Price’s office): +61 421 668 874

Defence Media: media@defence.gov.au

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19 October 2021

A Victorian company has joined forces with the Morrison Government to develop an easily deployable underwater sensor that will strengthen Australia’s maritime security.

Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price today announced a $1.6 million Defence Innovation Hub contract with Victorian company Leidos Australia to develop the technology.

“It is great to see Leidos Australia partner with the Morrison Government through the Defence Innovation Hub for the first time,” Minister Price said.

“Leidos will be working with WA company Terra15 and the University of Melbourne’s School of Engineering to develop fibre-optic methods of conducting underwater reconnaissance.

“This could significantly reduce the cost of existing capabilities.

“It is critical that Defence, industry and research institutions work together to develop technologies that could improve Australia’s maritime security.

“The Morrison Government has committed $800 million for Defence Innovation Hub investment over the decade to 2030, to deliver game-changing technology for the Australian Defence Force.”

Industry and research organisations can submit innovation proposals through the Defence Innovation Portal at: www.innovationhub.defence.gov.au.

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