Australia regulates the export of defence and related goods and dual-use technology under the Customs Act 1901 through Regulation 13E of the Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulation.

The export of encryption products is regulated as part of Australia's agreed international responsibility under the Wassenaar Arrangement. Australia and 32 other countries are committed under this agreement to limit the proliferation of cryptography in the interests of national and international security. There are no restrictions on the use of cryptography within Australia, or on the import of cryptography into Australia.

Products and technologies that are subject to export control are on the Defence and Strategic Goods List (DSGL), which includes:

• Military and defence goods and technologies.
• Nuclear materials, facilities and equipment.
• Dual-use goods and technologies – this includes some electronics, computer, telecommunications, information security, sensors/lasers, navigation/avionics and marine-use products.

If your technology is subject to control, you will need to apply for the appropriate export permit or licence from the Defence Trade Control and Compliance (DTCC) Section of the Department of Defence before you export your technology from Australia. Penalties apply if you unlawfully attempt to export controlled goods without a permit or licence.

Further information on Australian export controls is available through the Defence Materiel Organisation.

Inquiries on export controls can be made to:

Defence Trade Control and Compliance
Tel: (02) 6266 2586
Fax: (02) 6266 2997