University of Tasmania has organised a business and industry forum to brainstorm ideas for a defence and innovation precinct to be located alongisde the AMC.

UTAS deputy vice-chancellor Brigid Heywood said the proposed precinct would build on the existing defence strengths of the North and incorporate new endeavours across a range of disciplines.

“The potential of this defence and innovation cluster is considerable,” Professor Heywood said. 

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 “It is important as things progress that we incorporate the views of business and industry and that Tasmanian operators understand what opportunities exist and how they can be tapped.”

A feasibility study was commissioned in June, funded by the state and federal governments, to look into the defence precinct, which could be realised thanks to the relocation of the UTAS Newnham campus to Inveresk.

A business case to support the concept is due at the end of this month.

“We are moving from idea to concept now and, as we do, we will be engaging with the maritime college community, business, industry and the wider community,” Professor Heywood said.

The concept for the defence and innovation precinct sits within a broader $300 million investment program to establish new university precincts at Inveresk in Launceston and West Park in Burnie.

Under those plans, it is proposed that AMC will remain at Newnham, as part of a precinct enhanced by the new defence and innovation cluster.

The forum will be held at the Tailrace Centre, Launceston on Thursday.

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