South Australia’s defence industry has recorded the strongest growth of all states in 2023-24, contributing a significant $1.9 billion to the nation’s economy, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

The ABS reports a 27 per cent increase in the gross value added (GVA) by South Australia’s defence industry in 2023-24 from the previous year, adding $425 million to the national economy.

The sector’s workforce also saw substantial growth, expanding by 15 per cent and creating an additional 1,300 jobs in South Australia.

Over the past five years, the state’s defence industry has demonstrated consistent growth, doubling its value from $977 million in 2019-20 to $1.9 billion in 2023-24.

The state’s share of the national defence industry GVA rose from 11.9 per cent to 16.5 per cent during the same period, the highest growth of any state.

Defence and Space Industries Minister Stephen Mullighan said this ongoing growth cements South Australia’s reputation as the Defence State.

These latest ABS figures highlight the contribution and growth of our state’s defence sector in delivering capability to the Australian Defence Force, while also adding significant economic value,” he said.

For more information, read the ABS Australian Defence Industry Account.

Read the media release.