Brenton’s career started on the football field but it’s his work off the field that’s now driving real impact for Australia.

As a Senior Australian Industry Capability Specialist at ASC, Brenton is playing a pivotal role in strengthening sovereign capability and placing diversity at the heart of Australia’s submarine enterprise.

Brenton’s journey to ASC is a unique one.

Before stepping into the defence industry, he made his mark on the football field, playing with the Port Adelaide Football Club. As a proud indigenous man, Brenton carries his heritage with pride and is deeply committed to empowering Indigenous communities. Brenton’s story is one of commitment, inclusion and resilience.

“I had a great upbringing around Port Adelaide,” says Brenton. “Dad was a very good athlete and a great role model. Sport was a big part of our family.” 

Brenton’s deep connection to his Indigenous heritage, grounded in the Narungga lands on the Yorke Peninsula, now plays a central role in his work at ASC. Although his father didn’t speak much about their cultural background when he was growing up, Brenton has spent the last decade reconnecting with his roots. 

“My sisters and brother have all worked in Indigenous health, education and remote community support and services, this has helped me understand our heritage and our local Indigenous connections,” he says. “It’s been a powerful journey.” 

At ASC, Brenton has been instrumental in driving initiatives to grow and support the Indigenous supplier base.

“We’ve changed procurement policies to encourage sole sourcing to Indigenous businesses,” he explains. “It’s about more than just the supply of quality products and services – it’s about giving back to community and committing to our Reconciliation Action Plan obligations as we work together towards closing the gap for Indigenous people, community and businesses.” 

“These businesses offer real value to us and make a difference in society,” says Brenton. “It’s something I’m really proud of. The AUKUS work will open plenty of new doors for industry, and hopefully indigenous businesses will be able to take up some of those opportunities.”

Outside of work, Brenton’s big passion is Australian Football. He played juniors at Port Adelaide, cracked the under-19s, and eventually played league games under the legendary Russell Ebert.

Today, Brenton is a life member of Port Adelaide and is extremely proud that ASC is sponsoring the Port Adelaide AFLW team. 

“It’s brilliant,” he says. “It shows ASC’s commitment to community and social responsibility. I regularly take my granddaughter to Port Adelaide AFLW games at Alberton Oval and it’s fantastic to see the ASC logo on signage at the ground.”

When he’s not at the footy, Brenton’s other passions are his family, watching his three granddaughters grow up, and staying active – he spends much of his spare time surfing, running, bike riding, playing tennis, fishing and travelling. 

Now 62, Brenton has no plans to slow down. He’s passionate about mentoring young graduates and helping build the next generation of supply chain and AIC professionals. 

“I love going to work,” he says. “There’s so much opportunity ahead – especially with the Virginia Class and AUKUS submarine programs. AIC will play a critical role.”

For Brenton, the goal is clear: build capability, support community, and leave a legacy. 

“We need a strong sovereign supply chain,” he says. “Not just for efficiency, but for resilience. And if we can bring Indigenous businesses along for the journey, that’s even better.”