Product Development | Electronics Manufacturing | PCB Turnkey Assembly | AS9100 | DISP | ISO13485
Product Development | Electronics Manufacturing | PCB Turnkey Assembly | AS9100 | DISP | ISO13485
Avalon 2025 was more than an airshow, it was a focused industry dialogue on what’s next for Australia’s defence capability.
Over three days on the ground, the conversations went well beyond displays of technology. They centred on real challenges like building supply chain resilience, accelerating readiness and ensuring critical systems are designed, engineered and delivered by trusted Australian partners.
The Global Supply Chain Program was top of mind for many, as primes look to strengthen their networks with proven Australian suppliers who meet the standards required to support global defence programs.
Below we explore the key themes and that arose as common dialogue and imperatives for OEMs and primes working across defence programs today.
KEY THEMES FROM AVALON 2025
emphasis on sovereign capability
Discussions highlighted a collective commitment to enhancing Australia’s sovereign defence capabilities.
Stakeholders emphasised the need for localised solutions to ensure operational readiness and strategic autonomy.
INTEGRATION OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
There was a notable focus on the integration of cutting-edge technologies, including AI-driven systems and advanced communications, into defence platforms.
This integration aims to bolster the effectiveness and adaptability of Australia’s defence apparatus.
STREAMLINING PRODUCT READINESS
The concept of design-for-manufacture was a recurring theme, with industry leaders advocating for early-stage collaboration to streamline production processes and enhance product reliability.
GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN
Engagement with the Global Supply Chain Program was identified as a strategic avenue for Australian companies to contribute to international defence projects, fostering growth and innovation within the local industry.
The GSC Program was a core theme of the show during the delegate days with all primes and key industry players discussing the need to meet the objectives to support a successful program.
MOVING FORWARD
Extel Technologies remains committed to supporting Australia’s defence objectives through innovation, collaboration and a steadfast focus on quality. We invite stakeholders to engage with our team to explore how our capabilities can align with and support their strategic goals.
Connect with our experts:Â
JEFF THOMAS
Chief Business Officer
With over 30 years of market experience, Jeff partners with OEMs and defence primes to align Extel’s services with the strategic demands of complex or long-term programs at a local or global scale.
ROBERTO MORANDI
National Business Development Manager
Roberto partners with defence OEMs and primes to address complex program challenges, from supply chain and compliance to design-for-production readiness.
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Extel partners with defence primes and OEMs to engineer and manufacture complex electronics that meet the demands of mission-critical programs.
We operate one of Australia’s most advanced electronics manufacturing facilities, with AS9100 certification, DISP accreditation and full traceability systems in place.
As a dual-location supplier with facilities in Australia and the USA, we provide flexibility for global export programs and support customers requiring ITAR-aware capability.
Telephone: +61 3 8542 9200
Email: info@exteltechnologies.comÂ
Address: 399 Ferntree Gully Road, Mount Waverley VIC 3149
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Jeff joined Extel Technologies in 2013, bringing a broad background across engineering, operations, sales and executive leadership. As Chief Business Officer, Jeff plays a key role in shaping how Extel engages with customers - ensuring our capabilities evolve in line with technology innovations and their needs.
Jeff is widely recognised for his ability to build strong, long-term relationships with customers that are grounded in trust, collaboration and a deep understanding of what success looks like from their perspective. His career has been defined by helping businesses grow through meaningful partnerships and ensuring teams remain aligned with customer goals at every stage of the journey.
Outside of work, Jeff enjoys time on the golf course and travelling with family - exploring new cultures, cuisines and perspectives.
As CEO of Extel Technologies, Bruce leads the business with a strong focus on aligning people, process and purpose. With deep experience in operational leadership and transformation, Bruce is committed to creating a high-performance environment that delivers real results for our clients, every time.
Bruce champions a culture of continuous improvement and empowers teams at all levels to understand not just what we do, but why we do it. His ability to connect strategy with execution has been instrumental in driving Extel’s evolution as a trusted partner in the market.
Outside of work, Bruce values spending time with his family and enjoys hands-on projects such as home renovations and improvements.
Greg is an engineer, entrepreneur and industry leader with over three decades of experience in complex electronics manufacturing.
Since establishing Extel in 1991, Greg has guided the company through major shifts in technology — ensuring Extel remains a trusted manufacturing partner to Australia’s leading OEMs.
Known for his depth of technical knowledge and strategic foresight, Greg continues to work closely with Extel’s executive team to support long-term capability development and growth.
Martin serves as a trusted adviser to Extel’s Board and executive team, contributing to strategic direction and supporting key initiatives that strengthen our long-term growth and customer partnerships.
As an independent adviser, Martin brings valuable outside perspective and industry insight, helping ensure Extel remains responsive, resilient and aligned to the needs of the high-reliability sectors we serve.
When he's not working with the team, Martin enjoys spending time with his family, especially while travelling together.
