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The Albanese government has convened its eighth Projects of Concern Summit in Canberra, focusing on the sustainment performance of Australia’s Collins Class submarines and a host of other programs on the projects of concern list.
Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy led the summit, alongside Minister for Finance Senator Katy Gallagher, bringing together government and industry representatives to address ongoing challenges.
Since being designated a project of concern in December 2024, Defence and contractor ASC Pty Ltd have developed a remediation plan aimed at maintaining the Collins Class submarines as some of the most capable conventionally powered submarines in the world.
Minister Conroy said, “I have now held eight projects of concern summits in less than three years as minister, bringing industry and Defence together to drive better outcomes for our defence force and Australians. The removal of projects from the projects of concern list is proof that our focused effort to get projects back on track is working.”
Since revitalising Defence’s projects of concern process in 2022, the Albanese government has enhanced oversight and remediation efforts for defence projects. During this parliamentary term, two projects have been successfully removed from the list, while three remain under remediation.
Since taking office, the Albanese government has reinvigorated the projects of concern framework by:
- Establishing an independent projects and portfolio management office within Defence.
- Requiring monthly ministerial reports on projects of concern and projects of interest.
- Implementing formal processes and early warning criteria for identifying troubled projects.
- Encouraging a culture within Defence that promotes early identification of issues.
- Allocating additional resources and expertise to struggling projects.
- Convening regular ministerial summits to review and implement remediation plans.
One such success is Defence’s Deployable Defence Air Traffic Management and Control System, which was listed as a project of concern in 2017 due to major schedule and commercial setbacks. By 2022, it had been removed from the list, having met key milestones. The system, which ensures safe and efficient air traffic management for both military and civilian aircraft, has now achieved initial operational capability, with full operational capability expected by late 2026.
Additionally, the government has removed the Satellite Ground Station – East and Wideband Satellite Communications Network Management Systems project from the projects of concern list. Initially listed due to persistent delays, rigorous oversight led to its operational deployment in December 2024, demonstrating significant progress in project delivery.
“The Albanese government has brought renewed energy to the projects of concern process following the chaotic administration of Defence by the former Coalition government,” Minister Conroy said.
By taking a proactive approach, the government is ensuring that vital defence capabilities are delivered effectively, strengthening Australia’s national security and defence readiness.
