Offshore Surveillance Platforms

Mr Beazley asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, upon notice, on 1 December 2004:

1. Is the Minister aware that the offshore platform, 'Buffalo', is available for possible conversion to a surveillance platform in the Timor Sea.
2. Is the Minister aware of the Christmas/New Year deadline for the demolition of that platform.
3. Is it the case that in the Persian Gulf and elsewhere the United States of America and other countries have developed offshore platforms for the surveillance of important assets and the defence of sea routes and, in particular, that Qatar is developing a number of platforms for the defence of its assets.
4. Will the Government consider acquiring or leasing the Buffalo platform for a similar purpose; if not, why not.

Mrs Kelly - The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

1. I am advised that a proposal to lease the 'Buffalo' platform in the Timor Sea was reviewed by the Attorney-General's department, but not pursued because of, inter alia, value for money considerations.
2. No.
3. Defence has no evidence that the United States, Qatar or any other countries have developed, or are developing, offshore platforms for surveillance.
4. No. Current measures, along with initiatives announced by the Prime Minister in his press release of 15 December 2004, are assessed as being adequate for ensuring the integrity of Australia's offshore security.

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