What are export controls?

Through the Defence Trade Controls Act 2012 (DCTA), the Australian Government places restrictions on the export and transfer of defence-related goods, services and technologies, consistent with Australia's national interests and international obligations.

The Defence & Strategic Goods List (DSGL) is a legislative instrument which specifies the goods, technologies and services that are regulated under the DCTA. The DSGL is separated into two parts, as follows:

  • Part 1 - Munitions List: items specially designed or modified for military use.
  • Part 2 - Dual-use List: items generally used for commercial purposes, but with potential military and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) application, e.g., drone technology.

Importantly, restrictions apply not only to physical export of goods and technology, but also the supply, publication or brokering of controlled technology by electronic or other non-physical (intangible) means.

Export permits

Defence Export Controls (DEC) is the government agency responsible for enforcing the DTCA and DSGL. Any person or entity wishing to export controlled items typically requires a permit from DEC, and can lodge a permit application through DEC's My Australian Defence Exports (MADE) portal. Each application is assessed individually, against defined legislative criteria.

How does this impact ACU?

ACU is committed to complying with the DTCA while still enabling research, teaching, and collaboration, and upholding the principles of academic freedom. For this reason, it is important for staff and students to have an understanding of the DTCA and DSGL, and their impacts on ACU's work. Similarly, if your research or other ACU activity involves (or if you believe it may involve) goods, technologies or services listed in the DSGL, it is vital that you confirm this by seeking advice from the Research Stewardship Unit. We will assist you in assessing your proposed activity and, if necessary, applying for an export permit.

Remember, dual-use goods, technologies and services, including those that are intangible, are the items most likely to be applicable to ACU activities - they are also the least obvious! Additionally, for the purposes of the DTCA, the transfer of data, publication and conference presentation may all constitute 'exporting' of controlled items.

Resources

Have a question? Contact the Research Stewardship Unit

foreign.interference@acu.edu.au
Page last updated on 13/06/2025

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