9 December 2020
Defence is undertaking a comprehensive review of its procurement processes with the aim of cutting red tape for Australian industry.
Assistant Secretary-General Counsel – Commercial Francesca Rush said industry and stakeholders would be consulted as part of the review.
“We need to ensure we have a fit-for-purpose contracting system in place and the review into the Australian Standard for Defence Contracting (ASDEFCON) templates and Defence procurement processes will seek to improve this,” Ms Rush said.
“The goal of the review is to examine the way Defence approaches the market at all stages of a procurement.
“The views of defence industry are vital to improving our processes.
“With a $270 billion investment in Defence capabilities rolling out over the next decade, we need to ensure we are balancing the needs of the Australian Defence Force with what defence industry can deliver.
‘We also must ensure this significant investment represents value for money.”
Ms Rush said the review presented defence industry with a great opportunity to provide feedback while also putting forward ideas and solutions to benefit all parties.
“The review is intended to build processes that reduce red tape and create a system that strengthens the way Defence approaches its engagement with defence industry,” she said.
“I am aiming to have the review finalised mid-2021. It will then be presented to the government for consideration.”
The terms of reference for the review and process for consultation can be found at https://www1.defence.gov.au/business-industry/procurement/contracting-templates/asdefcon-suite#ASDEFCON%20and%20Defence%20Procurement%20Review
