FEDERAL SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR MANUFACURING AND SOVEREIGN CAPABILITIES APPOINTMENT

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has today been appointed as the Federal Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capabilities, a portfolio focused on cultivating Australia’s national interests and strengthening the economy.

“I am truly honoured to take on this role and welcome the faith placed in me by Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud,” Mr. Willcox said.

“Manufacturing is a large contributing factor in our Australian economy, starting right here in Dawson, from south Mackay in Paget right through to the very north of Dawson in Wulguru.

It’s vital we drive this industry forward, become more self-reliant and strengthen our ability to stand on our own two feet as a nation. From advanced manufacturing to defence to food production, it’s well overdue the need to prioritise Australian-made at every level.”

The appointment comes with perfect timing for the Member for Dawson, as the electorate prepares to host the launch of Australia’s very first locally-built rocket, marking a major milestone in the nation’s developing space industry

“This rocket launch is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve when we invest in our sovereign capabilities. Our region is at the forefront of a new era for Australian space and technology, and I couldn’t be prouder.”

The manufacturing sector is a significant contributor to our country’s GDP and providing hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide. With the uncertainty of the world’s landscape, ensuring a solid sovereign manufacturing capacity has never been more critical.

“As Shadow Assistant Minister, I’ll be fighting for policies that boost innovation, creates long-term employment, and restores confidence in Australia’s industry. A nation that can make things for itself, is a nation that can grow and shape its own future.”