WA To Host Australia’s Largest Land Defence Trade Event
The nation’s premier army conference and trade show will be coming to Perth for the first time, with the State Government securing the Land Forces 2026 International Land Defence Exposition (Land Forces 2026).
The conference aligns with the State’s strategy of attracting major events that boost the economy and commitment to growing Western Australia’s defence sector to the second largest after mining.
Hundreds of homegrown companies are set to exhibit at the event with more than 10,000 attendees expected including visitors from interstate and overseas.
The army-focused event will reinforce WA’s burgeoning reputation as a defence-industry powerhouse and will also feature the 2026 Chief of Army Symposium running alongside the conference and trade show.
Land Forces 2026 comes at a significant moment for the State,as our largest army defence procurement contract – the build of the Army Landing Craft Medium and Landing Craft Heavy – is about to be underway at the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson.
From 2027 nuclear-powered submarines from the United States and United Kingdom will also begin to forward operate from HMAS Stirling at Garden Island as part of Submarine Rotational Force – West.
As stated by Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia:
“Land Forces 2026 is a huge opportunity for Western Australian businesses to showcase their world-class expertise, connect with global defence leaders and break into international supply chains.
“It’s about creating new jobs, attracting investment and showing that WA’s defence industry can strengthen the nation’s sovereign capability.
“The State has made the growth of the Western Australian defence industry a strategic priority in our efforts to diversify and strengthen the Western Australian economy, and this is an important step in that endeavour.”
As stated by Business Events Perth Chair Bradley Woods:
“Business Events Perth is proud to have supported the Western Australian Government in securing this landmark event for WA.
“Drawing high-calibre international delegates to Perth and providing substantial impact to our visitor economy, Land Forces 2026 presents a significant opportunity for Western Australian businesses to connect with international defence leaders, forge new partnerships, and showcase our State.
“The event will create new avenues for business tourism, trade and investment, and deliver long-lasting benefits for Western Australia’s economy.”
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook Labor Government/WA-to-host-Australia