Defence

The Australian government launched a comprehensive review of its defence policy last week with a roundtable discussion involving industry representatives, defence researchers, politicians and senior government officials.

The process is needed after changes in strategic circumstances, the structure of the defence industry and increased operational experience since the last review five years ago, says defence minister Brendan Nelson. A discussion paper will be released next month and consultations with industry will take place over the next three months. The government will then decide whether there is a need for a new statement on defence industry policy. Australia is increasing its defence spending by 3% a year in real terms through to 2015-16.