Defence Trade Cooperation Treaty – Industry Consultation

Defence Trade Cooperation Treaty – Industry Consultation

Tuesday, 30 November 2010
Defence will begin consultation with industry on the implementation of the historic Defence Trade Cooperation Treaty with the United States on Wednesday 1 December. The Treaty will be a great opportunity for Australian industry to increase trade in defence products and technology with United States industry, and will greatly assist the Australian Defence Force in developing its technological and capability edge into the 21st Century.

The Government will introduce legislation into the Parliament in the new year to implement the Treaty. This legislation will also include proposals to strengthen the current system of Defence export controls.

Defence consultation with industry on the Treaty implementation will occur in three stages over the next 12 months. This process will enable industry to provide maximum feedback to Government on how the Treaty implementation will affect their organisations and internal processes.

Phase one consultation will inform industry of the expected policy and administrative changes arising from the implementation of the Treaty. Phases two and three will allow Australian industry to comment on and shape the final implementation of the Treaty in late 2011.

Phase one begins on 1 December with a public meeting at Olims Hotel in Canberra. Further public meetings will be held in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, Townsville and Newcastle in early December.

This consultation phase will also seek industry’s views on proposed changes to Australia’s Defence export controls. These changes will further strengthen Australia’s export controls and support regional security.

Defence is also pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Ken Peacock AM, to facilitate industry consultation. The appointment of Mr Peacock, a senior and respected defence industry representative, demonstrates Defence’s commitment to working closely with industry on these issues. Mr Peacock will ensure that Defence listens to industry’s concerns and works cooperatively with industry.

ENDS

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