“This is complex legislation that needs to be carefully assessed,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“We ask that the Bill be referred to a parliamentary inquiry to enable appropriate scrutiny.

“Universities are concerned that the Bill, as drafted, could place at risk our sector’s ability to engage in collaborative research with non-AUKUS partner nations. This is not in anyone’s interest.

“The amount of detail that is deferred to subordinate legislation, in particular around the application of exemptions, is also a significant issue.

“Our researchers are working right now with their international peers to fight climate change, develop vaccines and drive innovations to help us grow and prosper. This work must continue.

“We are committed to supporting government deliver AUKUS, but it must not come at the expense of other important research projects with existing and future international research partners.”

Read Universities Australia’s full response to the Exposure Draft of the Defence Trade Controls Amendment Bill 2023.