Singleton Council will launch its Industry Growth Series on Thursday 10 September 2026 at Singleton TAFE, focusing on helping local businesses enter Australian defence industry supply chains. Rolling out over the next 12 months, the six-part series focuses on critical sectors identified by the Australian Government to support regional economic resilience and industrial diversification.
Defense contributes an estimated $529 million annually to the Singleton economy, operating as the local government area’s fourth-largest industry behind construction, manufacturing, and mining. The inaugural Defence Opportunities for Local Business forum targets commercial operators across mining, heavy engineering, fabrication, manufacturing, logistics, transport, warehousing and asset maintenance seeking subcontractor or sustainment contracts.
The forum features presentations from Chair of Hunter Defence, Tim Owen; Defense Industry Advisor with HunterNet and Deputy Chair of Hunter Defence, Bret Barton; and Principal Advisor of Strategy and Transformation at PKF, Derrek Lush. Speakers will outline procurement pathways, infrastructure tenders, manufacturing accreditations and Commonwealth advisory support.
Mayor of Singleton, Sue Moore stated that local industrial capability aligns directly with defense sector procurement requirements.
“Many of our local businesses already possess the technical expertise, skilled workforce and operational capability that aligns strongly with defence industry needs,” Sue said.
“This forum will help businesses better understand how those capabilities can translate into defence supply chains, while also highlighting the support available to help them take that next step.”
Acting General Manager of Singleton Council, Mel Curtis added that connecting local suppliers with defense networks supports long-term commercial diversification across the Hunter.
“Singleton has a proud industrial heritage and an incredibly capable business community. The Industry Growth Series is about helping local businesses identify where the next opportunities are and giving them practical pathways to access them,” Mel said.
“Our role is to connect businesses with the right information, expertise and networks so they are well positioned to grow, diversify and remain competitive in an evolving economy.”
The free event runs from 12:00pm to 1:30pm on Thursday 10 September 2026 at Singleton TAFE, with registrations managed through Singleton Council’s online business portal.
IMAGE | Singleton Council launches Industry Growth Series with defense sector business forum
