Western Australia's first Land Forces International Land Defence Exposition is expected to generate approximately $100 million in economic activity when it opens at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on 6 October 2026.

Premier Roger Cook said the three-day exhibition would provide a significant boost to Perth's accommodation, hospitality and small business sectors, with the previous event in Melbourne estimated to have generated approximately $100 million for Victoria.

Up to 15,000 visitors are expected to attend the exhibition, which will bring together defence manufacturers, military representatives, government officials and industry organisations.

The event will feature approximately 1,000 exhibitors, including around 100 Western Australian businesses, twice the number of local companies that participated in the Melbourne exhibition in 2024.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles is among the senior government representatives expected to attend.

The State Government hopes the exhibition will help Western Australian manufacturers secure new contracts and establish relationships with international defence companies, particularly as investment increases in naval shipbuilding and submarine maintenance under the AUKUS agreement.

Minister assisting the Minister for Defence Industries Amber-Jade Sanderson said the event would provide an opportunity to promote the capabilities of Western Australia's manufacturing sector and support future employment.

Among the participating businesses is Perth-based engineering company Chironix, which has secured a US$9.53 million contract, equivalent to approximately A$13.5 million, with the United States Office of Naval Research.

The contract demonstrates the opportunities available to Western Australian technology and engineering businesses seeking to supply international defence organisations.

Security arrangements have also been increased around the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, with a designated exclusion zone extending towards Elizabeth Quay station.

Police will conduct additional security checks, including vehicle inspections and stop-and-search procedures, during the exhibition.

The event is expected to support Western Australia's growing defence industry while providing an immediate economic benefit to businesses across central Perth.