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Australia seeks public input on defence issues
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03/07/00
Australia
seeks public input on defence issues Ian Bostock JDW Correspondent
The Australian government released a public discussion paper on defence on 27 June as part of a new community consultation initiative before release of the Defence White Paper later this year.
The paper is intended to foster broader discussion within the community on Australia's defence and security. Minister for Defence John Moore said that "a wide-ranging debate, within the parameters of financial and strategic realities, will be encouraged" and that it is "timely for the government to update the way Australia defines the future role, structure and capability of the Australian Defence Force". The paper will consider Australia's current and future strategic environment and interests; the reform process and efficiency of the Department of Defence; current capabilities and the technological options for future planning; and options for capability development over the next 15 years.
A Community Consultation Team will be formed to identify and consolidate key elements of the community response to issues raised in the discussion paper. It will produce a report that will provide feedback for the government during final development of the White Paper.