The Sunshine State is strengthening as a leader in the defence industry, with Queensland companies winning contracts to deliver more heavy vehicles and equipment to the Australian Defence Force.
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State Development Minister Cameron Dick said the $1.4 billion LAND 121 Phase 5B would sustain more than 100 jobs with Haulmark Trailers at Rocklea and more than 100 jobs through Rheinmetall's Australian supply chain, including Holmwood Highgate at Loganholme, until 2026.
Earlier this year, Rheinmetall Defence Australia won a $5 billion contract to deliver the Land 400 armoured vehicle contract, with plans to build 211 Boxer CRVs at Ipswich.
This week, federal Defence Industry Minister Christopher Pyne announced plans for Land 121 Phase 5B, which will include the purchase of 1044 new-generation medium and heavy trucks, 872 modules and 812 trailers to replace an ageing fleet.
The trucks and their trailers will be used to help move assets and supplies in combat, humanitarian, natural disaster relief and training.
Visiting Holmwood Highgate, Mr Dick said the federal government's announcement of the new contracts strengthened Queensland's place as the country's leading manufacturer of heavy vehicles.
Haulmark Trailers and Holmwood Highgate, as part of the Rheinmetall supply chain, are already supplying more than 2500 protected and unprotected medium and heavy logistics vehicles, about 3800 specialist modules and 1700 trailers as part of an earlier phase of the ADF's modernisation of its land forces.
Mr Dick said the contracts meant a continued flow of work for the Queensland companies, supporting jobs and the state's defence manufacturing sector.
"This project continues to advance Queensland's industry expertise in manufacturing and sustainment of heavy vehicles," he said.
"Haulmark Trailers, Rheinmetall and Holmwood Highgate in Loganholme are to be congratulated on their quality performance and contribution to the state's reputation as Australia's front line for defence industries."
Member for Macalister Melissa McMahon said the future of defence manufacturing was bright in Queensland.
"Having served in the Australian Army myself, it's a source of pride for me knowing that a company in my local community is producing parts for use in vehicles which will be carrying Australia's dedicated defence personnel while they serve our national community," she said.
Holmwood Highgate director Wade Mellish said the Phase 5B contract, and work gained through earlier contracts, provided the 65-year-old family business with the opportunity to diversify and gain access to an international market.
