Australia Releases Defense Discussion Paper (June 27)
The Prime Minister, John Howard, and the Minister for Defence, John Moore, today launched the Public Discussion Paper, Defence Review 2000 - Our Future Defence Force.
"As we enter the new century, Australia faces important choices about its future Defence capability, the purposes for which the ADF might be used, and the size and management of the Defence budget," Mr Moore said.
As part of that process, the Public Discussion Paper has been released by the Government to help foster community-wide discussion on Defence. The Paper encourages public discussion on:
**Australia's current and future strategic environment and interests; ** The reform process and efficiency within Defence; ** Current capabilities and the technological options for future planning; and **Options for capability development over the next 15 years.
"Given the critical role of Defence in terms of Australia's future security, the community's views should be heard. The Public Discussion Paper, combined with a Community Consultation Program, will enable anyone with an interest in Defence to contribute to the decision-making process in an informed and constructive manner."
The Community Consultation Program will give all Australians the opportunity to have 'their say' on the future of Australia's Defence priorities.
A Community Consultation Team (CCT), comprising the Hon. Andrew Peacock, Dr David MacGibbon, Mr Stephen Loosley, and Major General Adrian Clunies Ross (retired), will facilitate the consultation process. The CCT will visit capital cities and regional centres during July and August, listening to community feedback.
Key industry, academic and interest groups will also be invited to meet with the Team and contribute submissions. At the end of Consultation Program, the CCT will report back to the Defence Minister.
"This level of public consultation on defence and security issues is unprecedented. The Federal Government sees this entire process as essential to the preparation of the Defence Policy Statement, due for release later this year. That policy statement will be the blueprint for Australia's defence requirements, for years to come."
"Wide-ranging debate is being encouraged with a view to producing a White Paper which is inclusive, while anchored firmly to financial and strategic realities," said Mr Moore.
