AIEx News

EXPORT CONTROLS FOR DEFENCE AND DUAL-USE GOODS

By The Defence Export Control Office

The Department of Defence is responsible for administering controls on the export of defence and dual-use goods, and the granting of authorisations to export, in the form of permits and licenses. Within Defence, this role is done by the Defence Export Control Office (DECO). 

DECO’s ROLE

If you require a permit or license to export your defence or dual-use item, you will require DECO’s assistance. DECO is the area for exporters to contact to seek export permits or licenses and obtain information on whether or not their goods are controlled. DECO also; -

• provides advice on the control status of goods; 
• authorises end-user and non-transfer certificates for the import of controlled defence and dual-use goods
• provides assistance with re-transfer approvals for foreign-sourced defence items
• delivers an outreach program that assists exporters in meeting their obligations under the relevant regulations and legislation; 
• monitors compliance with export controls and undertakes preliminary investigations in relation to non-compliance of those obligations;
• contributes to Australia’s international efforts to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction through participation in multilateral non-proliferation and export control regimes.

The export of goods and technologies designed or adapted for use by armed forces, or that can be used in the production of defence related goods and services are subject to control under the Customs (Prohibited Export) Regulations, Regulation 13E. All items subject to control are listed in the Defence and Strategic Goods List (DSGL). Defence is also responsible for administering the Weapons of Mass Destruction (Prevention of Proliferation) Act 1995 which covers the export of goods, technologies and services that could be used in a WMD program, that are not listed elsewhere under the Customs regulations.

OUTREACH PROGRAM

The Outreach program that DECO undertakes aims to educate exporters to enable them to meet their export control obligations. It also aims to raise awareness of the methods employed by some states and terrorist groups to obtain controlled goods. DECO Outreach provides training on export controls, produces brochures containing relevant information and publishes a newsletter. Export control information packs are also available from DECO.

For further information visit: www.defence.gov.au/strategy/deco or contact DECO - Ph: 1800 66 10 66 Email: deco@defence.gov.au