This report argues that for AUKUS to fully deliver on its promise, significant reforms to the United States' export controls are required to make these more material in their application, and positively discriminatory in favour of AUKUS countries.

There is no more important task for government than protecting the security, interests and livelihoods of its people. Accordingly, the Albanese Government commissioned this independent review to assess whether Australia has the necessary defence capability, posture and preparedness to best defend Australia and its interests in the strategic environment the nation now faces.

This paper addresses how Defence can not only save money when purchasing a new cadre of weaponry, but do so in a way that benefits the economy. Both issues relate to affordability which may ultimately determine the impact of the Defence Strategic Review.

Australia faces increasing pressures on the global supply chains connecting national industries to the global economy. This report investigates the current state of play in Australia’s defence supply chains, and strategies that can be used to address emerging risks.

Stephen Smith and Angus Houston have an enormous amount to do and almost no time to do it. Prime Minister Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles have chosen them to be the independent heads of the Defence Strategic Review. This paper sets out the key paths the review can take.