The Hon Anthony Albanese MP : Australian-made armoured vehicles to be exported to Germany

The Albanese Government has entered the single largest defence export agreement in our nation’s history, to supply Australian-made armoured vehicles to Germany.

Under the agreement, more than 100 Boxer Heavy Weapon Carrier vehicles will be built by Rheinmetall at its Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Redbank, Queensland and exported for use by the German Army.

This agreement, now passed through the German parliament, follows Prime Minister Anthony Albanese witnessing the signing of the in-principle agreement between Germany and Australia during his visit to Berlin in July last year.

This is a significant milestone for Australia’s defence industry: worth over $1 billion to the Australian economy, boosting our sovereign defence industry and securing more than 600 direct jobs in Queensland alone, with even more through the supply chain.

Today’s announcement will see Australian defence industry at the forefront of delivering world-leading defence capability to our trusted security partner, Germany.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“This significant announcement is worth over $1 billion to the Australian economy in the production and supply of these vehicles.

“The agreement will boost Australia’s sovereign defence industry, secure local jobs and contribute to Australia’s economic growth.

“This deal secures well-paid jobs in Queensland and across the country.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Richard Marles:

“I am pleased to announce the signing of the biggest defence export agreement in Australia’s history.

“The build and export of Boxer Heavy Weapon Carrier vehicles to the German Army highlights a strengthening of the relationship between our two countries.

“The Albanese Government is not only committed to bolstering our nation’s growing defence industry, technology and talent, but also supporting ongoing economic prosperity in the region.” 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy:

“This announcement underscores the support and immense effort on the part of the Albanese Government in ensuring we have a robust defence industry.

“A strong defence industry is crucial to protecting Australians and their interests. This announcement is also a testament to the hardworking Australians employed in this critical industry.

“Today’s announcement means more than 600 Australians will secure and stable employment at Rheinmetall’s Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Queensland, along with many more throughout our defence industry across the nation.”

MEDIA NOTE: Media can access imagery/vision at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20240656