Australia's DMO Slams Recording of ‘Private' Meeting
The Age/SMH today published selected parts of an unauthorised recording of a private meeting on 23 June between the Chief Executive Officer of the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), Dr Steve Gumley, and representatives of companies supplying clothing and personal equipment for the Australian Defence Force.
Dr Gumley arranged the meeting to allow a frank and open discussion of procurement issues, to brief the industry representatives on the actions being taken by DMO management, and to discuss further means of enhancing the relationship between DMO and industry.
The material published in the Age/SMH does not represent a balanced summary of the meeting or its key messages.
Dr Gumley acknowledged that there had been shortcomings in DMO’s management of clothing procurement, and outlined in detail the actions which had been implemented, or were being considered, to address them. DMO management has taken significant steps to enhance the staffing, management and governance of its clothing supply area.
He emphasised that these shortcomings related to procurement processes. They had not impacted on the support provided to ADF forces deployed overseas. The requirements of our troops overseas have been met, in terms of the quantity and quality of equipment. Our troops deployed on operations have received, and continue to receive, the best combat gear available.
Defence has acknowledged that there have been difficulties in the timely supply of some items of clothing and personal equipment to troops training within Australia. These shortcomings have to be overcome, by the joint efforts of DMO and industry.
Dr Gumley discussed with the industry representatives some specific instances of inappropriate actions on their part.
Dr Gumley was characteristically open and direct in his comments. He acknowledged past deficiencies and shortcomings on the part of both DMO and industry. His key message was a call for a more unified effort between DMO and industry to ensure that the support needs of the ADF continue to be met. The discussion focussed very strongly on action being taken and further options to be considered.
It is very disappointing that a recording was made of the meeting and that its privacy was breached in this manner. The Age/SMH story presents a catalogue of problems and criticisms, rather than a more balanced account of firm management action being taken to address identified problems.
These issues have been subject to DMO management action since late 2005. They also led to an independent review, which commenced in March 2006. The report of that review is currently with the Minister for Defence, the Hon. Dr Brendan Nelson MP.
The Defence Materiel Organisation will continue to work with industry to ensure that our troops receive the best clothing and equipment.
-ends-
Statement by the Defence Materiel Organisation
