Defence Industry Policy 2016 - Well Intentioned—But Conflicted

The Defence Industry Policy Statement (DIPS) 2016 announced on 25 February 2016 contains a number of policy positions with the potential to positively impact on Australia’s defence industry. These improvements include the recognition of Industry as a Fundamental Input to Capability, an increased emphasis on the contribution of local industry, simplified pathways for defence-related innovation, and the introduction of sovereign industry capabilities. Whilst DIPS 2016 is well intentioned, the ability to achieve the sought-after results will be inhibited by an overall lack of focus, and by omissions and conflicts between the DIPS and the broader strategy in the 2016 Defence White Paper.