The Defence Estate Quality Management System (DEQMS) is required to identify continuous improvement (CI) processes, non conformances (NC ) and subsequent corrective and preventative actions to the management system in order to comply with AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Standards.

Embracing our culture of continuous improvement helps improve the way we work to support Departmental Program objectives and strategic Defence Outcomes.  Continuous Improvement (CI) is not about apportioning blame to personnel when things go wrong. We cannot do our jobs well without meaningful feedback as it drives our culture of continuous improvement. Every employee, contractor and supplier has the ability to improve the quality of information on the DEQMS. The DEQMS Team welcome your feedback and suggestions on new topics, process and/or amendments to rectify inaccuracies and improve the quality of information on the DEQMS.

Continuous Improvement (CI) is an ongoing process and essential part of the DEQMS as it:

• promotes and sustains our culture of continually improving the way we do business, whilst reviewing business processes and building successful relationships;
• highlights non-conformance(s) (NC)/ required corrective actions and ongoing additional preventative actions;
• quantifies problems and potential improvements and helps us learn from our mistakes; and
• assists the Defence Support and Reform Group (DSRG) to effectively manage the Defence Estate via continual quality reviews of key DEQMS processes, policies and support tools.

Non-conformances can result from a minor (or complete) lack of fulfillment to standard(s) within the appropriate AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008 system under management. Non-conformances usually result from internal/external feedback and observations or via the formal DEQMS Audit Program.

Corrective action is taken to prevent a recurrence of a non-conformance. This requires root cause analysis of the the non-conformance to avoid recurrence.  A documented plan detailing corrective action(s) is required by Head Infrastructure to prove compliance to the appropriate standard(s) following identification of major (and minor) non-conformances. Corrective actions should be addressed prior to the next audit / review or as per HI's direction.

Preventative actions are forward thinking and implemented to prevent occurrence of issues/non-conformances in the first place, whereas, corrective actions are reactive and done to eliminate recurrence of a non-conformance. These are also viewed as Opportunities for Improvement (OFI).

The DEQMS Audit Program should also align with preventative action/high risk areas as directed by senior management.