On Wednesday, Perth became the centre of the global security debate with some of the highest-ranking naval figures in the world attending the Indian Ocean Defence and Security (IODS) Conference and Exhibition, along with close to 3000 attendees.
This includes the Chiefs of Navy from the United States of American and Australia, as well as the United Kingdom’s First Sea Lord, marking the first time since the historic trilateral security partnership was announced in 2021 that Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond and Admiral Sir Ben Key have met in Australia.
Also in attendance will be Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force Chief of Staff Admiral Akira Saito, Singapore’s Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Sean Wat, Australia’s Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, and Australia’s Chief of Air Force Air Marshall Stephen Chapel.
More than 500 Western Australian school students will have the opportunity to explore career options available to them in the defence industry by interacting with the over 100 exhibitors throughout the conference.
This year’s extended three-day program includes several defence and security events, including the Better Together Ball – a major fundraiser for RSLWA, Legacy WA and Police Legacy WA.
The IODS 2024 Innovation Awards will see local organisations pitch their ideas and inventions to an international audience to compete for $40,000 worth of prizes.
Award finalists include a tactical assault parachute simulator and an uncrewed amphibious landing craft for transportation of troops and equipment.
The Indian Ocean Defence and Security Conference and Exhibition takes place between 2426 July.
IODS has been organised through a partnership with the State Government and the AMDA Foundation with assistance from the Perth USAsia Centre and support from over 20 corporate sponsors.
“For the first time since AUKUS was announced back in 2021 the US, UK and Australian Chiefs of Navy will meet in Perth, confirming the growing importance of our State in the historic partnership,” Defence Industry Minister Paul Papalia said.
“Western Australia is where AUKUS gets real, and the Cook Government is committed to supporting the nation acquiring these revolutionary defence capabilities.
“WA will be the home of Australia’s strategic ship building and nuclear-powered submarine maintenance, creating more than 4,000 new jobs over the next decade.
“The Better Together Ball will raise funds and awareness for veterans and their families, and provide important support for RSLWA, Legacy WA and Police Legacy WA.”
Photographs – Richard Polden
