Application Process

Step One: Are your goods controlled?

If your goods, services or technology is controlled (see the DSGL) you will need a permit. If you are unsure if your export is controlled please contact DECO for advice, phone 1800 66 10 66 or email.

If your goods are not controlled DECO will send you a letter of confirmation to be attached to your export documentation.

Please note: goods, services and/or technologies that can be used for a WMD program may be controlled, if you have any suspicion that your export could contribute to a WMD Program it is your responsibility to contact DECO.

Step Two: Submit an export application form

If the goods, services or technologies are controlled, you will need to complete a DEC01 Export Application Form. For goods/services or technologies controlled under the WMD Act, a DEC01 should also be completed. Please supply as much detail/documentation as possible as this will assist with the processing timeliness.

Step Three: Submit supporting documentation

In most instances you will need to provide supporting documentation such as end user certificates or technical specifications - you will be advised by DECO if any additional documentation is required.

Step Four: Your permit or licence is issued

Your permit will be faxed to you and the original posted to you. In some instances permits/licences may be issued with conditions. It is important to check your permit and comply with any conditions.

Step Five: Complete an Australian Customs Export Declaration Notice (B957)

You will need your DECO permit or licence number to complete the Export Declaration Notice.

** Please note - there is no charge for permits and/or licences

Processing times

Defence is conscious of the fact that exporters require quick, clear decisions to be commercially competitive. Applicants can assist in the provision of a timely response to their application by ensuring that all the required information is supplied at the time of lodgement.

When applying for approval to export, applicants should ensure that all fields are completed on the application form and that CONTACT POINT details are provided, it is essential to write clearly and legibly.

DECO will endeavour to process non-sensitive applications within 15 working days (commencing from the date a complete application, with all supporting documentation is received). For applications that require referral to SIDCDE or other agencies, this processing time may take up to 90 working days, but DECO will keep you informed of the progress.

Delays in processing will be caused when:

handwriting is messy or illegible;
application forms are incomplete or unsigned;
technical or product information is insufficient or not supplied;
full street address details for consignees are not provided;
third party clearances have not been sought;
export involves the release of classified information;
end user certification has not been provided;
the application has been referred to other agencies for consideration; or
the complexity of the application or sensitivity of the export might require longer consideration.

The applicant will be informed as to the status of the application on a regular basis. If an application is not resolved by SIDCDE or other agencies within three months, the application is referred to the Minister for Defence for decision.

Applications may be mailed to the address on the form or sent by facsimile (02) 6265 4583.

Export Committee

Standing Interdepartmental Committee on Defence Exports (SIDCDE)

SIDCDE is an Interdepartmental Committee that advises the Minister for Defence on sensitive export applications and export policy matters.

In considering export applications SIDCDE members take into account the possible impacts on Australia’s security, political, other trade interests, as well as the effects on global and regional stability.

SIDCDE is chaired by the Department of Defence and includes representatives from the following Australian Government Departments of:

SIDCDE's functions are underpinned by the Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations 1958, Regulation 13E and the associated Defence and Strategic Goods Lists (DSGL) which provide the legal basis for Australia's commitment to control goods covered by a number of international regimes. The Minister for Defence has delegated the authority to approve export applications to specified officers in the Department of Defence.