Mulwala Redevelopment Goes Ahead

Thales, Thales Australia welcomes the announcement that the A$300 million redevelopment of the Commonwealth's propellant manufacturing facility at Mulwala, in New South Wales is going ahead. 
 
The recent announcement made by the Defence Minister, The Hon Brendan Nelson follows a positive recommendation by the Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Public Works. 
 
The redevelopment will modernise the core propellant production capability at Mulwala, which is essential to delivering a safer propellant manufacturing capability and in meeting environmental regulations said Norman Gray, Managing Director Thales Australia. 
 
“It also secures Australia's strategic capability for the manufacture of rifle and cannon propellants into the future.” said Mr Gray. 
 
Thales Australia is also keen to optimise the utilisation of the facility while maintaining its ability to surge these capabilities in support of the ADF, when required, by ensuring the knowledge and skills of its Mulwala workforce remains up to date through non defence work. 
 
“The new plant will enable Thales Australia to maintain its enviable quality standards to serve the future needs of the ADF.” said Darryl Page, Vice President Land Systems, Thales Australia. 
 
Thales Australia is committed to research and development of propellants in Australia and has strong affiliations with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and leading tertiary institutions. 
 
Thales Australia acknowledges the tireless efforts of the Defence Minister Dr Brendan Nelson, Hon Dr Sharman Stone, the Hon Sussan Ley and Mrs Sophie Mirabella for their support of this project. 
 
The modernisation of the Mulwala facility will generate considerable economic growth and financial stability in the region not only locally but through the expansion of current export contracts.