Kit inquiry

Volume 11, No. 39, March 23, 2006

Gearing up: An upcoming review will ensure that ADF procurement is world class.Photo by Cpl Ashley Roach.

MINISTER for Defence Dr Brendan Nelson has announced an inquiry into the procurement practices for the ADF’s clothing and personal equipment.

Dr Nelson said he had appointed a review team to conduct the inquiry.

“The inquiry will look into DMO’s procurement practices for clothing and personal equipment for members of the ADF,” Dr Nelson said.

“The Government is committed to ensuring that the system which supports the provision of clothing and equipment to Australian soldiers is world class.

“The inquiry will ensure that practices comply with Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines and will provide suggestions for improvements.”

Dr Nelson said the inquiry review team ould comprise AVM Bob Treloar, Mike Harding and Dr Alan Kallir.

“AVM Treloar was the Commander Australian Theatre, commanding all ADF operational activity. His experience and background in the field of military operations are highly relevant to a review of this nature,” he said.

“Mr Harding has extensive experience in the private sector. He is a Non-Executive Director and member of the Audit Committee of Santos; Non-Executive Director, Deputy Chairman and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee of ARC Energy; and Chairman of the Project Governance Board — Land Systems Division (Army), for the Department of Defence.

“Dr Kallir has advised senior management in service and manufacturing industries around the globe for more than a decade.

He has extensive and significant experience working with boards, CEO’s and senior management on issues of strategy, organisation, growth and profit management.”

The review team is expected to report back to Dr Nelson by the end of May 2006. .