Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence commences work in first meeting

The committee is designed to examine long‑term effectiveness and strategic outcomes.

The PJCD will oversee not only the Department of Defence but a number of other Australian defence agencies including the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Australian Submarine Agency.

“Australia is contending with the most complex and demanding strategic environment that it has faced in decades,” according to Senator Deborah O’Neill.

“Every Australian has a stake in the success of our resilience, preparedness and capabilities.”

“Parliament has chosen to give this committee stronger powers and a more robust structure to provide necessary bipartisan scrutiny of the agencies involved in our national defence.

“We will work to ensure Australians are informed about the work and impact of our investments in defence, and the skilled jobs and business growth opportunities that strengthening our sovereign capability and supply chain network provides.

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“In addition, the committee's new capabilities to obtain private and secure briefings from relevant agencies will ensure proper parliamentary oversight of defence while not compromising national security.”

The PJCD welcomes the cooperation of Defence and its portfolio agencies as it embarks on its new oversight responsibilities and emphasises the Committee’s intention to work constructively, rigorously and in the public interest.

“There is no more important role for the Parliament than protecting the security, interests and way of life of the Australian people, and defending Australia’s sovereignty and national freedoms,” according to Deputy Chair, Senator Dave Sharma.

“With the continued deterioration in Australia’s strategic environment, characterised by growing risk and uncertainty, this task is more vital than ever.

“I look forward to working closely with Chair Senator Deborah O’Neill to ensure the Committee makes an enduring contribution to Australia’s national security and strengthens our national preparedness.”

Committee member and Shadow Minister for Defence, James Paterson, speaking after the meeting, said the first meeting of the new Parliamentary Joint Committee on Defence is designed as a supplement, not substitute for transparency.

“Modelled on the Intelligence and Security Committee, this new statutory committee will provide robust, classified oversight of the Defence Department and the ADF. It’s a supplement - not a substitute - to other important public accountability and transparency processes like Senate estimates,” he said.

“It has had many champions over the years but none more so than the late Senator Jim Molan. I know Jim would be relieved to know the Parliament has finally established the committee on a bipartisan basis.

“Congratulations to Senator Deborah O'Neill on her election as Chair and Senator Dave Sharma on his election as Deputy Chair of the committee.

“I am looking forward to working with all members of the committee in the national interest.”

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.