## Australia Set for Largest Defence Overhaul in Decades
Australia’s Defence Department is preparing for its most significant reform in decades, aimed at tightening accountability and tackling escalating costs and project delays. The federal government, led by the Labor Party, is expected to unveil the plan as part of a wider effort to modernize the nation’s defence system amid rising regional tensions.
### Key Goals of the Reform
- Strengthen oversight of major military acquisitions.
- Reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and decision-making delays.
- Introduce clearer lines of responsibility within the Defence Department.
- Rein in escalating costs associated with long-term procurement programs.
### Broader Strategic Context
The overhaul follows criticism that Australia’s defence projects have consistently missed deadlines and exceeded budgets. Officials argue that boosting transparency and efficiency is essential to ensure readiness in an increasingly uncertain Indo-Pacific region. This move also aligns with broader government priorities to restore public trust in the management of national security assets.
> “We need a system that delivers value for money, timely outcomes, and strong national defence capability,” said an unnamed senior government source familiar with the plan.
### Expected Measures
A key element of the plan includes restructuring senior leadership roles within Defence to make specific individuals accountable for cost and timeline outcomes. Further, the department will adopt new risk management frameworks and digital monitoring tools to track progress in real time.
### Impact on Defence Projects
The reform aims to affect several large-scale initiatives, including naval shipbuilding and advanced technology programs, where delays and budget overruns have been most pronounced. By tightening control and oversight, the government hopes to restore confidence in Australia’s defence planning and procurement systems.
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**Author summary:** The Labor government will initiate a sweeping defence overhaul to improve accountability, efficiency, and cost control within Australia’s Defence Department amid growing regional security concerns.
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Australian Associated Press on MSN — 2025-11-30