News Australia expands Defending Australia event series

News Australia has expanded its Defending Australia program to two major events this year, bringing together political, military and industry leaders to discuss Australia’s defence challenges.

The first event is being held today at the Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia, hosted by The Advertiser. A second event will take place on June 2 at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, hosted by The Australian.

Both events will be headlined by Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence.

Richard Marles at the National Press Club

Defence industry and national security focus

The Advertiser summit will focus on South Australia’s role as a defence industry hub, including the submarine program, defence manufacturing and workforce development.

Marles will be joined by Peter Malinauskas, South Australian Premier, and Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead.

The Australian event in Canberra will feature Marles alongside Lia Finocchiaro, Northern Territory Chief Minister, Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and Liza Tobin, former China director at the National Security Council.

The line-up will also include James Paterson, Shadow Minister for Defence, and Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia.

News Australia backs national defence conversation

John Lehmann, State & Communities Commercial Director, said the program was designed to support discussion between government, defence and industry leaders.

“News Australia is uniquely placed to facilitate the conversations that matter most to our nation's security. Defending Australia creates an unparalleled opportunity for meaningful dialogue between decision-makers and industry leaders, supported by partners who are at the forefront of Australia's defence transformation.

“These events, combined with our editorial reach, ensure defence remains at the centre of the national conversation.”

John Lehmann

The events are supported by BAE Systems, Australian Submarine Corporation, the South Australian Government and Babcock.

Both events will be livestreamed via Sky News Extra and SkyNews.com.au, with editorial coverage across The Australian, The Advertiser, The Daily Telegraph, Herald Sun and The Courier-Mail.

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