The 2019 Australian International Airshow is ready for take-off, boosting local tourism and showcasing the best of Victoria's defence and technology industries with support from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula today visited Avalon for a preview of what fans can expect at next week's Airshow.
The Airshow is one of the biggest events on Victoria's jam-packed major events calendar, attracting more than 200,000 visitors and delivering a huge economic boost to the Geelong region.
As the most comprehensive defence and aerospace event in the Southern Hemisphere, the Airshow is a chance to display the state's world-class defence capabilities to important domestic and international stakeholders.
For the first time, the Labor Government's Airshow pavilion will focus on skills and careers in space-related industries, featuring 28 exhibitors encouraging Victoria's best and brightest minds to reach for the stars.
Victoria's defence sector contributes up to $8 billion to the state's economy each year, employing around 18,500 people in 770 businesses that manufacture equipment and provide services for defence activities.
Earlier this month the Labor Government appointed renowned industry and government defence expert John O'Callaghan as the new Victorian Defence Industry Advocate to champion Victoria's defence capabilities here and overseas.
The Aerospace and Defence Exposition runs for three industry-only days from Tuesday 26 February, and the Airshow opens to the public from 2.00 pm on Friday 1 March. For more information visit airshow.com.au.
As stated by Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula
"The Airshow is a great opportunity to showcase Victoria's world-class expertise in defence, aviation and aerospace to the world, attracting new investments, creating more local jobs and encouraging our brightest minds to consider a career path in these exciting industries."
"We're proud to support the Airshow not only to promote our defence sector, but to give a major boost to the local economy, with thousands of visitors coming through the Geelong region next week."
