National Interest

When the Rudd government took office it launched a flurry of inquiries, and the resulting reports are now thumping down on ministerial desks. One of these recommends a re-organisation of the Defence Materiel Organisation - that's the Department of Defence body which buys weapons and equipment for the military. As things stand, the DMO answers to the Secretary of Defence and to the Chief of the Defence Force; but under this proposal, it would become an executive agency reporting directly to the Minister of Defence. The aim is to reduce the frequent and embarrassing cost blow-outs and delays in defence purchases - like the $1 billion which sunk without trace in the failed Seasprite helicopter project. But would an independent DMO do a better job?

Guests

David Mortimer
Chairman, Australia Post and Leighton Holdings

Further Information

Mortimer Revue of Defence Procurement and Sustainment

Presenter

Peter Mares

Producer

James Panichi

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