Australian DOD confirms 12-month contractor crackdown

The new moratorium, confirmed by a Defence spokesperson, will restrict Defence managers from contracting any Defence Australian Public Service employee or part or full-time Australian Defence Force member who has separated from Defence within a 12-month period, into roles that should be undertaken by Defence people.

“Defence is committed to supporting the government’s plan to invest in the public service by identifying where work can be done more efficiently and effectively by public servants,” the Defence spokesperson said.

“The moratorium does not prevent recently separated personnel from employment with Defence industry partners, consultancies or outsourced service providers that work with Defence, just the return of those personnel to Defence into roles that would normally be performed by the APS.”

It’s understood the restriction, introduced on 7 August, will not apply to Reserves but will have a focus on contracting personnel who have recently separated from Defence into “above-the-line” contractor roles. Above-the-line roles are those undertaking work that could be performed by an Australian Public Service employee.

It’s understood it will also not be applicable to existing “above-the-line” contracting arrangements, commercial necessity and defence capability needs, compassionate measures, outsourced service providers or consultants with specific skillsets. A register will also be established to assist transitioning ADF members and veterans who are interested in APS roles.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.