The committee recommends that the Australia Government adopts a default position that Defence materiel being retired or otherwise disposed of will be gifted to Ukraine unless there is a compelling case against this for an individual asset.

Government Response to Recommendation 13

The Government agrees to this recommendation noting that not all Defence materiel being retired or otherwise disposed will be appropriate or suitable for gifting to Ukraine.

The Government highlights that a sizeable portion of Australian military assistance for Ukraine to date has been sourced through disposals processes. Noting material for gifting also requires comprehensive considerations around equipment condition, sustainability, export controls (ITARS), and logistics, it is not feasible to default all disposal materiel to Ukraine. However, the Government is prioritising Ukraine as a potential recipient of surplus and disposal items and has refreshed formal guidance confirming this approach.

The Government, through Defence, has also refined decision-making processes outlined above on Defence materiel being retired or otherwise disposed of, enabling a more proactive approach to identifying and assessing equipment for potential gifting to Ukraine. For equipment that has been in service with the ADF, this assessment will also consider the ADF’s experience with the equipment, its condition, the logistical feasibility of shipment, and the ADF’s own preparedness needs. These actions underscore the Government’s commitment to supporting Ukraine while ensuring alignment with Australia’s needs and interests.