While the AUKUS trilateral partnership continues to spark debate, its strategic significance is undeniable. For Australia’s sovereign industrial base, particularly SMEs, it presents a once-in-a-generation chance to be part of a high-value defence supply chain and shape future technologies and innovation. To seize these opportunities, it’s important that Australian SMEs are AUKUS-ready. Not just in terms of capability, but from a compliance perspective where meeting trade, security and export control requirements is critical. Here are some tips to help SMEs understand what’s needed to participate in the new licence-free export environment.
Joining the AUKUS licence-free environment
Since 1 September 2024, eligible Australian companies have been able to apply for exemptions to export certain defence goods and technologies to the US and UK without needing traditional permits, thanks to the AUKUS licence-free framework. This streamlines collaboration and accelerates technology sharing, but it also introduces new responsibilities.
To be eligible, all your business must be conducted in Australia, the UK or the US. You also should check whether your goods or technologies are listed on the External Technologies List or classified under the Australian Military Sales Program, as these are not eligible for licence-free export under AUKUS.
Next you need to register with Defence Export Controls (DEC) and obtain an Australian or AUKUS Authorised User Community certification (AUC) via the My Australian Defence Exports (MADE) portal. This registration is essential for accessing the licence-free environment and becoming an authorised user.
Compliance is key
Beyond registration, compliance is vital. Your business must implement a compliance framework, including use of Technology Control Plans (TCPs) to safeguard sensitive information and ensure proper handling of controlled goods and technologies. Robust record-keeping is also mandatory under the Defence Trade Controls Act 2012 to help maintain transparency and accountability and having internal track and trace processes is key to this.
What’s in it for SMEs?
The AUKUS licence-free environment opens up more opportunities to work within the defence environment. It enables faster and more efficient transfers, reduces administrative burden, fosters enhanced collaboration and innovation, and strengthens trilateral security cooperation.
Participating in this trusted trilateral ecosystem opens doors to new contracts, faster technology transfers, and deeper integration into global supply chains. Being AUKUS-ready means your business can quickly go-to-market with technologies – and instead of waiting 6-12 months for international approvals, you can get working on projects in days or weeks.
It also positions home-grown businesses as reliable partners in a high-trust, high-tech defence environment. By taking proactive steps to register, comply, and engage, you can help build Australia’s sovereign capability while unlocking innovation and commercial success.
Learn more about partnering with Leidos Australia, click here: Building Sovereign Capability | Leidos
This article is intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as legal or compliance advice. Readers should consult their own advisors to ensure compliance with relevant defence export and trade control requirements.