A leading Australian aerospace manufacturer headquartered on the Sunshine Coast is preparing for a significant expansion into the nation’s defence industry.
Caloundra Aerodrome-based HeliMods has received $31.65 million through the state government’s Sovereign Industry Development Fund (SIDF) to help deliver its planned $78.1 million Advanced Industry Precinct Expansion.
The project would deliver more than 10,000sqm of purpose-built defence-grade aerospace infrastructure within a secure, integrated precinct, assisting to expand Queensland-owned aerospace manufacturing and engineering capabilities.
It is expected to support about 150 jobs during construction and create about 100 ongoing high-skilled positions once operational.
HeliMods is one of a small number of Australian-owned companies capable of delivering end-to-end aerospace capability, from design and engineering through to advanced manufacturing, certification, systems integration and ongoing support.
The company, which specialises in aircraft modications and technology, already works with the Australian Defence Force, LifeFlight Australia and international clients, from as far afield as Canada and Germany.
This recent round of funding was awarded through a competitive assessment process and marks the first defence project supported through the fund.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the SIDF would back investment-ready projects that would “deliver real capability, support Australian defence priorities and create high-value jobs for Queenslanders”.
“Queensland has the resources, the workforce and the expertise to be a national leader in defence capabilities, so let’s take advantage of them to make more of what we need, support local supply chains and build better lifestyle through a stronger economy,” Mr Bleijie said.
“HeliMods is a great example of a home-grown company delivering world-class aerospace and defence innovation, and this investment will enable them to scale their operations and compete on a global stage.
“Queensland has a critical role to play in strengthening Australia’s defence capability, and this project will help build the advanced manufacturing and supply chain capacity needed to support that.”
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HeliMods founder and managing director Will Shrapnel said the investment would help expand advanced manufacturing on the Sunshine Coast.
“This investment will deliver a world-class advanced industry precinct at Caloundra Aerodrome, building on our proven track record in delivering critical technologies to first responders and frontline personnel globally.
“Most importantly, this investment will secure high-value industry and long-term economic opportunity on the Sunshine Coast for generations to come.”
Member for Caloundra Kendall Hatcher said the project would support local industry growth and jobs.
“Here on the Sunshine Coast, our community has the skills, talent and determination to help drive Queensland’s sovereign capability, and it’s great to be part of a government prepared to back that potential.”
Founded in 2002, HeliMods has grown from a one-person operation into a company employing more than 80 engineers, designers, technicians and technologists from its local base.
Construction on the new precinct is expected to begin in late 2026 and be completed in 2028.
