Partnering with industry at the wider frontiers

Defence showcased advancements in the capabilities and workforces of its cyber and space domains at the 18th annual Military Communications and Information Systems (MilCIS) Conference from November 12 to 14. 

MilCIS 2024, held at Canberra’s National Convention Centre, brought together Defence, industry and academia, providing a platform for collaboration and cooperation in the military communications and information systems community. 

Chief of Joint Capabilities Lieutenant General Susan Coyle said Joint Capabilities Group (JCG) was committed to fostering industry partnerships. 

“We know the important role industry plays in the creation and maintenance of our space and cyber capabilities,” Lieutenant General Coyle said.

“This is a whole-of-nation endeavour hand-in-glove with industry. We need collaboration, cooperation and coordination. 

“Enhancement of partnerships with industry and academia is key, or arguably foundational, to optimising, enabling the development of innovative solutions to future threats.”

'We know the important role industry plays in the creation and maintenance of our space and cyber capabilities.'

These collaborations provided Defence with access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise, accelerating capability development and enhancing operational readiness. 

This year marked a significant change for Defence’s engagement in MilCIS, with space and cyber being at the forefront, under the theme of ‘Space and Cyber Domain Workforces’. JCG led Defence’s discussions in these areas. 

Representatives from across Defence, including Defence Digital Group and the three services supported the event. 

Defence is transitioning its involvement in the MilCIS Conference to a broader Space and Cyber Symposium, recognising the critical role of space and cyber capabilities in an integrated force across all domains. 

This symposium will provide a platform for exploring the future of defence and security through the lens of space and cyber technologies, bringing in key players and thinkers from Australia and abroad.