Toowoomba is poised to become a global centre for aerospace, defence development and advanced manufacturing, with the official launch this month of the Wellcamp Aerospace and Defence Precinct by privately-owned Wagner Corporation.
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With Boeing Australia confirmed as the foundation tenant, the precinct marks a major milestone for the region and the state as global investment surges in defence and aerospace capability, John Wagner, chairman of Wagner Corporation, said.
“With governments and private industry here and abroad pouring resources into aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing, the timing is absolutely right for a precinct of this calibre to be developed right here in Queensland,” he said.
“As a proud Australian company with a global outlook, we’re committed to helping rebuild Australia’s manufacturing capability. We also see this precinct as playing a vital role in decarbonising Queensland’s economy and supporting a sustainable future.”
Wagner described the precinct as a long-term investment that would deliver lasting benefits across generations.
“Our vision is for this to be a multigenerational asset for the region and the nation – driving prosperity, building careers and expanding Australia’s reach on the global stage.”
Boeing Australia will produce and assemble its Boeing Airpower Teaming System – an autonomous defence aircraft – at the site.
Sustainability, Wagner said, has been embedded in the precinct’s vision and design.
“We’re aiming to set the global benchmark with the most environmentally sustainable facility of its kind. For modern manufacturing, sustainability isn’t optional – it’s essential. From infrastructure and technology through to services, everything here will be geared towards supporting net-zero goals,” he said.
Wagner also expects the precinct to deliver significant community benefits, including the creation of skilled jobs, strengthened partnerships with education and research institutions, and expanded opportunities for local businesses.
Situated adjacent to Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport, the precinct is part of a broader master-planned development that already includes the Qantas Group Pilot Academy, a trade distribution centre, and a growing business park. Future developments at the site include a new multimodal transport hub with enhanced road, rail and air connectivity, as well as a motorsport and entertainment precinct.