The Hon. Roger Cook, Premier of Western Australia, The Hon. Paul Papalia, Minister for Defence Industries (WA), Joint Media Release, 22 June 2025
Premier Roger Cook and Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia are travelling to the United Kingdom for strategic talks about Western Australia’s internationally sought-after defence sector.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently announced an ambitious plan to build up to 12 additional nuclear-powered submarines over the next decade, and WA businesses could play a pivotal role in speeding up the construction of these military assets.
WA companies already manufacture vital parts of Australia’s submarines and are working to enter the US Virginia-class supply chain.
By strengthening ties with the UK, it’s hoped they will also break into the Astute-class supply chain.
During the five-day mission, the State Government will spearhead a roundtable meeting in London with defence industry heavyweights and meet with UK Government officials including Rt Hon Maria Eagle, Minister of State for Defence Procurement and Industry, and Rt Hon John Lord Spellar, the UK’s Trade Envoy to Australia.
Both Minister Eagle and Lord Spellar have recently visited WA, conducting discussions around the progress of the landmark AUKUS partnership and the investment and trade relationship between WA and the UK.
The Premier and Minister Papalia will also visit His Majesty’s Naval Base in Devonport, which is the sole nuclear repair and refuelling facility for the Royal Navy.
Discussions around WA’s energy ambitions will also be centre stage, following the World Hydrogen Summit in May 2025.
It is well-known that this State has some of the best wind and solar resources in the world, as well as near world-class export industries.
WA’s energy sector has long been shaped by its significant natural resources and world-renowned resources industry.
The State continues to promote its ambition to be recognised as a global energy powerhouse with key trade partners, including the UK.
The UK mission forms part of the Cook Government’s Made in WA plan to diversify the economy to ensure it remains the strongest in the nation.
Defence is set to become WA’s second largest industry, surpassing agriculture and providing a buffer to the cyclical nature of the resources sector.
Earlier this year, Minister Papalia led a US delegation made up of WA businesses, some of which are now on the cusp of entering the Virginia-class supply chain.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
“My government is working every day to ensure WA’s economy remains the strongest in the nation and that there is no better place in the world to get a quality job.
“The defence industry is critical to our plans to diversify our economy, and that’s why this trip to strengthen AUKUS ties and unlock opportunities for local businesses is so important.
“We are working to make more things right here in WA, attract more international investment, and make our State one of the best in the world to do business.”
Comments attributed to Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia:
“From submarines to frigates, defence is Made in WA, and our local businesses are strongly positioned to support the construction and sustainment of Astute-class submarines.
“It’s a win for WA and our AUKUS partners.
“This mission is about showcasing WA’s defence strengths to grow the sector and diversify WA’s economy.”
