Defence Export Controls (DEC) is the Commonwealth regulator for the responsible movement of military and strategic (dual-use) goods, software, technology and related services both within and outside Australia.
DEC supports stakeholders from government, industry, higher education and research sectors, and private individuals to meet their obligations under Australia’s export control laws. This involves:
- Enabling use of the Australia, United Kingdom and United States licence-free environment
- assessing applications to export, supply, publish, re-export, or broker military and dual-use goods, software, technology and services listed on the Defence and Strategic Goods List.
- Issuing permits or licences (including for brokers) for such transfers if they are determined to not prejudice Australia’s defence, security or international relationships and obligations.
- Prohibiting the export, supply or provision of goods, technology or services that may be used for, or to assist, a Weapons of Mass Destruction program.
Through its operations, DEC plays a fundamental role in ensuring Australia upholds its international obligations through participation in a series of multilateral non-proliferation and export control regimes.
Exporters are advised to be aware of any additional obligations when exporting under Australian law, including with Australian Border Force, Australian Sanctions Office, and others.
DEC is also the regulator for the Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets (SAMS) legislation and program. The SAMS legislation closely aligns with the Defence Trade Controls Amendment Act 2024, which similarly protects controlled technology and information. Further information about this alignment is available on the Defence Trade Controls Amendment Act 2024 and Defence Trade Legislation Amendment Regulations 2024 page.