PM turns sod at Avalon defence site

PRIME Minister Scott Morrison flew into to Avalon airport this morning for a nearby sod turning event at the future manufacturing site of Korean arms builder Hahnwa.

It follows the signing of a $1 billion defence contract in December last year with Hahnwa to supply the Australian Army with new self-propelled howitzers.

Flanked by numerous senior Australian military leaders, Hahnwa company representatives, Liberal MP’s and candidates, as well Korean government representatives, the PM said the facility will be constructed by 2024.
“This project is a clear demonstration of my Government’s commitment to securing a strong economy and a strong future for all Australians, with investments in both our economic and national security,” Mr Morrison said.

The project is estimated to sustain around 100 construction jobs on the $170 million facility and further 300 for the Howitzer Project through to the late 2040s, that will see Hanwha build 30 self-propelled guns and 15 armoured ammunition resupply vehicles.

Mr Morrison declined to answer questions from reporters about when he will call an election, “you’ll know very soon.”

“I’ll be back many times, you’ll see me many, many times here and right across the country, because I’m looking forward to this election. Because election campaigns are an opportunity for Australians to make a choice.”