Investigation Results of Unauthorised Defence Goods Export

Today Defence released the results of an internal Defence investigation (the McCullagh Report) into an allegation of an unauthorised export of defence goods.

On 1 June 2010, then Minister for Defence, Senator Faulkner, announced at Senate Estimates that the Defence Export Control Office would examine the allegation that an Australian company had exported near infrared-treated Disruptive Pattern Camouflage Uniform fabric, Commonwealth function and performance specifications, and test reports to China without the appropriate permission from the Defence Export Control Office.

This investigation is now complete.

The investigation found evidence that a small sample of fabric had been exported without the necessary permission. The Defence assessment is that approval for the export of the fabric sample would have been granted had it been sought.

The matter has now been referred to the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, for possible further action under Australia’s export laws.

A redacted version of the report will be placed on the Defence website. The report has been redacted to protect Australia’s commercial interests and privacy of individuals, as well as intellectual property and legal advice.

All Australian exporters dealing with Defence or dual use technologies are reminded of their obligations under Australian law to consult with the Defence Export Control Office.

The Defence Export Control Office, in conjunction with the Defence Materiel Organisation, has initiated a targeted outreach program to raise awareness of Australia’s export controls among companies who support Defence clothing and equipment programs.

ENDS

© Scoop Media