The federal government has announced more than $10 million in new funding to address skills shortages in the defence industry.  Defence Materiel Minister Greg Combet said the government would spend $10.7 million on new training spots for workers involved in the construction of military equipment.  Companies which were involved in the production of Defence vehicles, aircraft and other gear would receive funding for apprentice programs, training facilities, travel expenses and other training costs.  Combet said the money would create up to 1,500 new training places over the coming financial year.