Five Australian defence companies have joined the JOSCAR supply chain system as part of ongoing efforts to enhance procurement efficiency and reduce costs for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Launched in June 2024, JOSCAR has gained traction within the Australian defence sector, with adoption by the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) and eleven major defence firms.
According to Shaun Barrett, Chair of the JOSCAR Governance Group in Australia, the expansion aims to provide supplier networks with greater access to opportunities within the defence industry. “JOSCAR is by the industry, for the industry, and it’s great to see 1,000 suppliers already qualified on the platform,” said Barrett, who also serves as Supply Chain Director at BAE Systems Australia.
New participants in the JOSCAR program include Northrop Grumman Australia, QinetiQ, Kongsberg Defence Australia, HII, and Austal. These companies anticipate benefits such as reduced administrative burdens, increased supply chain visibility, and improved collaboration with SMEs.
Deputy Secretary of CASG, Chris Deeble, emphasized the role of JOSCAR in streamlining procurement. “Defence is pleased to be working with the JOSCAR Australia community to simplify contracting processes and reduce compliance challenges for suppliers,” he stated.
The platform enables companies like BAE Systems Australia, Boeing Defence Australia, Babcock, Lockheed Martin Australia, Raytheon Australia, Saab Australia, and others to access a centralized network of qualified suppliers, reducing costs associated with data collection and compliance.
Industry leaders highlighted the advantages of JOSCAR. Deanne Barnett, Managing Director of Northrop Grumman Australia, noted that the platform provides Australian suppliers with direct access to business opportunities, strengthening domestic capabilities. Similarly, Clare Little, Commercial and Supply Chain Director at QinetiQ, emphasized how JOSCAR simplifies due diligence and enhances efficiency for over 1,300 suppliers.
Other executives echoed similar sentiments. HII’s President of Global Security Group, Michael Lempke, stated that JOSCAR enhances collaboration within the defence supply chain, while Kongsberg Defence Australia’s Managing Director, John Fry, praised its role in expanding access to qualified suppliers. Austal’s Head of Strategic Supply Chain, Brent Carey, highlighted the platform’s alignment with industry best practices and its potential to foster stronger supplier relationships.
SMEs have also responded positively. Defence industry specialist Matthew Simpson from Brennan commended the platform’s ability to streamline compliance and document management.
As JOSCAR adoption continues to grow, defence companies and SMEs alike are expected to benefit from increased efficiency and improved industry connectivity.
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