The Queensland Government has also announced that it has first right of refusal to host Land Forces in 2032 and suggested it wants to host the event indefinitely.
“Securing Land Forces 2030 is a major coup for Queensland and recognition of our state’s growing importance to Australia’s defence future,” said the state’s deputy premier, Jarrod Bleijie.
“Queensland will give the event the stability and support from government it needs and showcase the state’s world-class defence and manufacturing capabilities on the global stage.
“Land Forces is more than a conference. It will drive investment, support local jobs and strengthen Queensland’s position as a leader in Australia’s defence industry.
“Queensland is already home to some of Australia’s most significant defence assets, including a large army presence, advanced manufacturing capability and growing sovereign industry expertise.
“After a decade of decline and Labor’s scattergun approach to industry development, the Crisafulli Government has its laser sight on securing the partnerships, projects and investment that strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability while creating high-value jobs and economic opportunities for Queenslanders.
“We’re making the case to be the permanent home for Land Forces, so consider this shots fired,” said Bleijie.
Land Forces’ last complete edition in Melbourne in 2024 drew more than 25,000 attendees and 995 exhibitors, alongside protests around its venue, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, which turned violent and resulted in arrests and two dozen police officers requiring medical attention.
For the Western Australian event this year, the state government has temporarily increased police powers to protect the event and allocated $11.5 million for security around Land Forces.
Mainstream media coverage of a protest against Land Forces in Perth today indicated a peaceful demonstration.
Melbourne is set to host Land Forces again in 2028 before the event goes to Queensland.
