DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets(http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/60fd89/australia_defence) has announced the addition of the "Australia Defence and Security Report Q4 2011" report to their offering.
Australia's prominent role in the South Pacific region remains important but local foreign policy has been somewhat neglected with so much of Australia's attention focused on their economy. Towards the end of the year, however, it will host a number of significant diplomatic talks, such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in September.
Of note is a development in Australia's new deal with Malaysia to combat illegal immigration. The highly controversial deal involved sending 800 unconfirmed asylum seekers who had illegally travelled to Australia back to Malaysia, where they would be processed. On the other hand, it would see 4000 additional confirmed refugees accepted into Australia from Malaysia. A mere 12 hours before the first transfer was set to take place, a high court challenge was raised and the government was ordered to suspend the transfer until the High Court settled the case. The arrangement had received scalding coverage from both sides of the political spectrum and the media, it received a strong condemnation from the Australian Human Rights Commission and the High Commissioner for the UN Human Rights group.
Military procurements and defence spending continue to be a matter of debate within Australia, a peaceful country with no nearby conflicts. It has been suggested that major defence expenditure is unsustainable and perhaps not necessary. However, recent governments have committed to a 3% real growth in the budget, and arranged for the purchase of three Destroyers with anti-ballistic missile capability. A fleet of 100 F 35 stealth strike fighters are also contracted, as well as 12 submarines. Despite some pressure to do otherwise, the Australian government is committed to maintaining defence increase, a fact confirmed by the 2011-2012 budget.
Companies Mentioned:
- Austal
- BAE Systems Australia
- Boeing Australia
- Raytheon Australia
- Thales Australia
For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/60fd89/australia_defence