Engineers formalise Defence agreement

THE nation-building relationship between Engineers Australia (EA) and Defence has been formally recognised with the co-signing of an agreement between CDF, Gen Peter Cosgrove and EA President Doug Jones.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is the first step in a broader Defence agreement that seeks to optimise Defence Engineers, while potentially saving money for the ADF.

Underpinning the MOA will be a standing offer for the development requirements of services and groups throughout Defence, including those areas that don’t currently participate in a professional development program but may wish to do so in the future.

Services and groups will continue to control their own requirements and funding priorities, but those areas wishing to establish new programs will not need to raise a separate standing offer.

Defence groups not currently participating in engineering professional development programs can establish one under the new agreement.

Those with standing offers that are due to expire will come under the all-of- Defence agreement, saving a staff intensive negotiation period.

Engineers Australia offers a sliding scale of substantial discounts to organisations that have large enrolment numbers.

Coverage under the one standing offer is expected to save Defence about $65,000 in the 05/06 financial year, and up to $250,000 annually by 08/09, based on current growth rates.

Further enquires regarding the all of Defence agreement should be directed to the Assistant Director Training Systems Policy (DETD Branch), Lt-Col David Mann on (02) 6266 3554 or David.Mann@defence.gov.au.

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