Defence Supplier Yarn

Henderson in the City of Cockburn, is poised to become a global centre for maritime defence and shipbuilding, presenting significant opportunities for First Nations businesses to establish a strong, long-term presence within local defence supply chains.

Established in 2025 as a biennial event, the Defence Supplier Yarn was created to connect local First Nations businesses with Western Australia's defence industry. The inaugural Defence Supplier Yarn was recognised with a National Economic Development Award in 2025, and the City, together with its 2027 partners, Waalitj Hub, Zagul Biri, Babcock and Austal, is proud to bring this initiative back in February 2027.

Defence Supplier Yarn 2027

The Defence Supplier Yarn is an opportunity to: 

  • Yarn with key defence industry contractors 
    This event provides a platform for First Nation businesses to gain viability and build valuable connections with defence contractors through inclusive yarning circles, interactive Q&A sessions, and relaxed networking opportunities designed to help businesses connect with the right people. 
     

  • Understand defence requirements and the support available 

    Hear from industry experts and defence support organisations. Get to know what personalised support is available to get your businesses to the next level in an industry worth $3 billion a year to WA. 
     

  • Learn how your business can enter the defence supply chain 
    As AUKUS drives the creation of jobs, 10,000 direct jobs are expected to be supported in Henderson over the next two decades, increasing demand for suppliers across heavy engineering, advanced manufacturing, shipbuilding, marine systems, electronics, and logistics. Learn how your business could get involved. 

Register your interest

To express your interest in attending the Defence Supplier Yarn 2027, register your interest below and receive priority notification when event registrations open. Don't miss this opportunity to make valuable connections, have a yarn with industry representatives, and learn how your business could become part of the defence supply chain.

When: 7.30am-2pm, Wednesday 10 February 2027
Where: AMC Jakovich Center, 4 McGrath Road, Henderson 
Cost: Free, registration essential

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the City's Economic Development team on (08) 9411 3444 or email [email protected].

Register your interest here

 

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Contact

Address

City of Cockburn
Whadjuk Boodjar
9 Coleville Crescent,
Spearwood 6163

PO Box 1215, Bibra Lake DC,
Western Australia, 6965

Office opening hours:
8.30am to 4.30pm
Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)

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Cockburn Nyungar moort Beeliar boodja-k kaadadjiny. Koora, yeyi, benang baalap nidja boodja-k kaaradjiny.
Ngalak kaditj boodjar kep wer kaadidjiny kalyakool yoodaniny, wer koora wer yeyi ngalak Birdiya koota-djinanginy.

The City of Cockburn acknowledges the Nyungar people of Beeliar Boodjar. Long ago, now and in the future they care for Country.
We acknowledge a continuing connection to Land, Waters and Culture and pay our respects to Elders, past and present.