Jacqui Lambie (Tasmania, Jacqui Lambie Network) Share this | Hansard source

My question is to the Minister representing the Minister for Defence. Last night I had the privilege to go and see the Australian Industry & Defence Network Sovereign Capability Showcase. This event is a great opportunity for industry companies to show parliament why Australian defence technology capabilities are world-leading. The Australian Bushmaster is world-famous, but there's so much more going on. From drones all the way up to Hawkeis, we make all kinds of kit used by ADF here and overseas.

I spoke to the vendors there, and, at stall after stall, I got the same message: that the Australian government is making it harder and harder for them to sell what they make. 'And why would that be?' I asked. 'Well, the government prefers to buy from foreign-owned manufacturers.'

Minister, why is the Australian government making it harder for Australian defence companies to sell to the Australian government?