Universities Australia has expressed its ‘strong appreciation’ to the members of the Senate Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Legislation Committee for their efforts ensuring that Australian researchers will not face tougher obligations than their international counterparts as a result of proposed new legislation to control trade in defence technology and services.

 

"The Committee members have listened carefully to the serious concerns raised by the university sector and have comprehensively addressed them in their recommendations," said Universities Australia Chief Executive, Belinda Robinson.


"Universities Australia recognises that this legislation is important for the protection of Australia's national security interests and for our relationship with the United States.

 

"It is essential, though, that the legislation includes the protections and benefits required by national security interests without compromising our world class research capability.