Launch of the Defence Export Unit

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Procurement, the Hon Greg Combet MP, officially launched the Defence Export Unit at the Pacific 2008 International Maritime exposition on 30 January 2008.

Mr Combet said that "the Defence Export Unit will work closely with Australian defence companies planning to enter the defence export market and will continue to support those companies that have already broken into overseas defence markets".

"The DEU demonstrates the Government's commitment to working with Australian defence industry and it will make a real difference to the volume and value of Australian defence exports."

The Unit's work will include identifying future overseas opportunities for Australian defence companies and coordinating with other Australian Government agencies including Austrade.

Unlike previous initiatives in this area, the DEU will facilitate a whole-of-government approach to supporting Australian defence industry international marketing activities.

The Unit will engage with federal government agencies and the relevant industry departments of the state and territory governments to facilitate cooperation on defence industry export initiatives.

"The Australian Government is committed to the expansion of exports across all industries and today's launch demonstrates that support in the important area of defence procurement."

The DEU will be headed by Mr Terry Whelan.

The activities of the DEU will include, but will not necessarily be limited to:

• Compilation and maintenance of a database of Australian defence and defence-related products and capabilities with export potential.
• Collection, analysis and dissemination of targeted market intelligence on international opportunities for Australian defence exports.
• Continuous engagement with the defence industry sector and liaison on product development, market intentions and any other relevant matters.
• In conjunction with relevant government and industry elements, development of plans and campaigns for the international marketing of specific products.
• Coordination of the formation of Industry Capability Teams based on specific export promotion campaigns and activities.
• Evaluation of international product exposure events such as defence exhibitions and missions.
• Provision of a full-service project management and coordination service under the Team Australia banner for Australian industry participation in appropriate international defence exhibitions.
• Coordination of access to ADF assets by potential international customers, including the facilitation of inbound visits to Defence establishments, where this would assist in the promotion of integral Australian systems and components.
• Coordiantion of letters of support for particular products from Ministers, Service Chiefs or other officers/officials to their international counterparts.
• Arrangement of education and information sessions to enhance Australian defence industry's awareness of export opportunities and how to access them.