The Queensland Government has confirmed its support for a major drone manufacturing project under the $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund (SIDF).
As part of the deal, veteran-owned business, EPE Oceania, will receive a $3.05 million boost to upgrade and expand its existing manufacturing facility in Brisbane to design, build and test Australian‑developed small uncrewed aerial systems and adaptable drone components and technology.
Delivered in partnership with Grabba Technology Pty Ltd, Project MOSAIC will bolster Australia’s ability to build and support small drone systems locally, supporting 25 highly-skilled jobs and strengthening Queensland’s defence manufacturing capability and supply chains.
The investment will support the upgrade and expansion of manufacturing and test facilities in South East Queensland, along with digital infrastructure to support Queensland companies in the development of drone systems for Defence use and global markets.
“Queensland is building the capability to design and manufacture next-generation technologies locally, and this project is part of that,” said Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie.
The project was selected through a competitive, merit based assessment process with a focus on investment-ready proposals capable of delivering long-term economic value for Queensland following strong interest in the Fund from industry, with over 250 applications seeking more than $2.2 billion in funding.
“We’re also proud to back veteran‑owned businesses like EPE Oceania, creating new opportunities for former Defence personnel to use their skills in civilian jobs here in Queensland,” said the Deputy Premier.
EPE Oceania CEO, Warwick Penrose welcomed the Government’s support to accelerate Project MOSAIC.
“This support will help accelerate the industrialisation and export of Australian sovereign uncrewed aerial systems developed and manufactured right here in Queensland,” Mr Penrose said.
“Project MOSAIC brings together two innovative Queensland companies to build a scalable, trusted sovereign capability that strengthens Australia’s defence preparedness, creates highly skilled local jobs and expands opportunities for Queensland manufacturers throughout the supply chain.”
Grabba Technologies Acting Managing Director, Ross McKinnon said Project MOSAIC was a strategically significant step towards positioning Queensland as Australia’s UAS centre of excellence. Â
“The capabilities and skills roles delivered through the SIDF grant are pivotal in ensuring Australia’s long-term national security objectives,” Mr McKinnon said.
