If your business is part of the defence industry supply chain, 2025 is shaping up to be an unmissable year. With major defence industry events on the calendar, this is your chance to showcase your capabilities, connect with decision-makers, and stay ahead of industry trends. Whether you’re looking to refine your procurement strategy, expand your network, or uncover new opportunities, these events will help you position your business for success.

Register now for Australian Digital Defence Industry Matrix (ADDIM) our successful pilot open market portal for the Defence Industry. The platform is free for suppliers and very affordable for those looking for people, products for their projects. Over 60% of the industry is already on board.

Here’s a closer look at what’s coming up and how you can get involved.

ADM Congress 2025

Date: 19 February 2025

Location: Hyatt Hotel, Canberra

More information: ADM Congress 2025

This is the place to be if you want to understand the direction of Australia’s defence strategy. The ADM Congress brings together over 500 industry heavyweights—ministers, defence chiefs, and senior procurement leaders.

Also for the first time, the 6th Australian Defence Magazine Space Summit will be held alongside the ADM Congress and the inaugural ADM AUKUS Pillar II Conference. This powerful combination of events brings together three pivotal industry gatherings in one location.

For businesses like yours, it’s the perfect opportunity to hear about upcoming projects, align your offerings with Defence’s priorities, and connect with potential partners in the supply chain.

Pro Tip: Come prepared with examples of how your business can help solve some of Defence’s biggest challenges. Highlighting your value in procurement and supply chain resilience will help you stand out.

Avalon Airshow

Date: 25–30 March 2025

Location: Avalon Airport, Victoria

More information: Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025

Avalon isn’t just an airshow—it’s a massive opportunity for businesses to spotlight their contributions to Australia’s sovereign defence capabilities. As a supplier, you’ll want to leverage the event to highlight how your products or services fit into Defence’s long-term strategy. With government, industry, and academia all in one place, Avalon is a hub for innovation and collaboration.

How You Can Maximise the Opportunity: Think about how your offering supports Australia’s goals for a secure and sustainable defence supply chain. Whether it’s advanced technology, critical components, or support services, make sure your messaging ties back to these objectives.

Northern Australia Defence Summit

Date: 28 April – 2 May 2025

Location: Northern Territory

More information: Northern Australia Defence Summit 2025

Australia’s north is critical to Defence operations, and this summit will highlight opportunities in the region. If you’re interested in tapping into this market or already supply to projects in Northern Australia, this is your chance to strengthen relationships with local Defence and government stakeholders. The summit will explore procurement opportunities, infrastructure development, and strategies for creating resilient supply chains.

Your Takeaway: Focus on how your business can contribute to Defence’s regional priorities. Think about the unique challenges of operating in the north and how your solutions address them.

Australian Space Summit and Exhibition 2025

Date: 27–28 May 2025

Location: ICC Sydney

More information: Australian Space Summit and Exhibition

Focusing on the fast-growing space sector, this summit highlights opportunities for Defence suppliers specialising in space technology, communications, and exploration. Attendees will gain valuable insights into government priorities and emerging technologies shaping the future of Australia’s Defence strategy in space.

New connections are key: Engage with speakers and attendees during breakout sessions to position yourself as a thought leader in this niche. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date.

Indo Pacific Exposition

Date: 4–6 November 2025

Location: International Convention Centre, Sydney

More information: Indo Pacific 2025 International Maritime Exposition

If your business supports naval or maritime projects, this is the event to prioritise. With backing from the Royal Australian Navy, the Indo Pacific Exposition attracts stakeholders from across the maritime defence sector. The focus here is on procurement and innovation, making it an ideal place to demonstrate how your capabilities align with Defence’s naval requirements.

What You’ll Gain: Networking opportunities with key decision-makers and insights into upcoming projects. Position your business as a trusted partner for maritime procurement and supply chain solutions.

Defence Estate & Base Services Summit 2025

Date: TBA 2025

Location: TBA

More information: Defence Estate & Base Services Summit

This summit addresses the critical infrastructure and base services required to support Australia’s Defence operations. For suppliers involved in construction, maintenance, or base operations, this event provides insights into upcoming projects and procurement opportunities.

Preparation is key: Prepare examples of your previous work on similar projects to share with potential clients. Use visuals like case studies or before-and-after photos to demonstrate your capabilities effectively.

Why These Events Are Crucial for Your Business

Defence is one of the most competitive industries in Australia, and these events give you a unique opportunity to stand out. Whether you’re meeting decision-makers, building regional networks, or showcasing your expertise, attending these events helps secure your position in the supply chain.

As a defence prime, these events are key to expanding your supplier networks and connecting with new partners. With stable investment, suppliers from related industries are transitioning into defence, and their specialised experience will be in demand.

For smaller suppliers, attending defence industry events is a valuable way to network, demonstrate capabilities, and stay informed about emerging trends relevant to your business. Make sure to also take advantage of any education sessions that explain how defence procurement works.

How BenchOn Can Help

Navigating the Defence industry can be overwhelming, but BenchOn makes it easier for businesses like yours. Our Workforce and Industry Portals connect your capabilities with the right opportunities, ensuring you’re always in the mix for projects that match your strengths.

Register now Australian Digital Defence Industry Matrix (ADDIM) our successful pilot open market portal for the Defence Industry. The platform is free for suppliers and very affordable for those looking to source from the platform. With over 60% of the industry on board, you can develop new contacts easily.

Also follow our LinkedIn for upcoming events bring Defence contractors and SMEs together throughout the year.