A full room of 80 attendees joined Bennett on Thursday 11 June 2026 for the Western Australian Defence Industry Panel Discussion, delivered in partnership with the Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN WA).
We were privileged to hear Keynote insights from the Hon. Paul Papalia CSC MLA, Minister for Defence Industries and Veterans, alongside perspectives from an outstanding panel of industry leaders shaping the future of Western Australia’s defence industry.
The panel featured Mike Johnson, National CEO of AIDN, who travelled from Canberra to be with us; Andrew Widdis, Executive Director Defence Industry Skills, South Metropolitan TAFE WA; Brent Carey, Head of Supply Chain, Austal Defence Shipbuilding Australia; Chris Stoll, Managing Director, Griffin Industrial; Toff Idrus OAM, Assistant Director-General Henderson Infrastructure (NPS), Australian Submarine Agency; and Luke Parsons, First Assistant Secretary, Henderson Defence Precinct Program. Each contributed valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges ahead, including workforce development, sovereign capability, supply chain participation, and the long-term growth of the Henderson Defence Precinct.
Opening Remarks were delivered by Principal Edward Parra, Bennett’s Defence co-lead, and Fred Bkamdin, AIDN WA President, who set the tone for a thoughtful and engaging discussion on the future of Western Australia’s defence ecosystem.
Hosted by Bennett Principals and Defence co-leads Edward Parra and Shemali Samaraweera, together with Principal Associate Bernard Lock, the event highlighted the significant opportunities emerging for Western Australian businesses as defence investment continues to grow across the State.
The discussion reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, defence, industry, and education in strengthening capability and supporting the next phase of growth in the defence industry.
It was a pleasure to continue the conversation over refreshments and canapés into the evening. Thank you to everyone who joined us.
We extend our sincere thanks to our panellists, guests and the AIDN Committee for their valued contributions.
For further information about Bennett’s Defence, Aerospace and Technology practice area please contact:
Edward Parra – Principal, Defence co-lead
Shemali Samaraweera – Principal, Defence co-lead
Bernard Lock – Principal Associate
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