'Two Pass' Implementation Process

Senator Bishop asked the Minister for Defence, upon notice, on 24 March 2005:

With reference to page 30 of the department's Annual Report 2003-04, would the Minister advise:

1. On what date did the 'two pass' implementation process become operational.
2. Has this process been applied to the acquisition of Abrams M1A1 tanks from the United States of America; if so: (a) when did the project reach stage one and stage two; and (b) what funding was allocated to the project on reaching stage one.
3. Has this process been applied to the Air Warfare Destroyer project; if so: (a) when did the project reach stage one and stage two; and (b) what funding was allocated to the project on reaching stage one.
4. Has this process been applied to the MRH 90 Helicopter (Air 9000) project; if so: (a) when did the project reach stage one and stage two: and (b) what funding was allocated to the project on reaching stage one.

Senator Hill - The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows:

1. 9 March 2004, although the 'two pass' process was implemented progressively, with some projects being exempted from second stage consideration under transitional arrangements.
2. No. The Abrams tank acquisition was a transitional project.
3. The 'two pass' process will be applied to the Air Warfare Destroyer Project. (a) and (b) This proposal has not yet received first pass approval. It is expected the proposal will be considered for first pass approval in mid-2005.
4. No. The Air 9000 Phase 2 acquisition was a transitional project.

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