1. National Prestige/Patriotism
2. Utilitarian Ground Truth

The Defence Capability Assurance and Oversight Bill 2024 aims to enhance Australia’s national security by ensuring efficient and reliable procurement of defence capabilities. By establishing the DCAA, the bill seeks to provide decision-makers with accurate, independent assessments of risks associated with defence acquisitions, thus enabling more informed decisions that ensure Australian defence forces are well-equipped and prepared to face current and future threats. This not only strengthens national security but also boosts Australia's global standing and influence [Judgment].

Furthermore, the bill's emphasis on transparency, accountability, and competent workforce development aligns with utilitarian principles by maximizing overall well-being and minimizing risks associated with defence procurement. By addressing systemic deficiencies and ensuring that risk assessments are conducted by qualified personnel, the bill promotes efficient use of resources and reduces the likelihood of costly procurement failures, thereby benefiting the Australian public as a whole.

1. Value-Neutral / Epistemic Objection

While the Defence Capability Assurance and Oversight Bill 2024 aims to improve the procurement process, there are concerns regarding the establishment of another bureaucratic structure, which could lead to inefficiencies and increased costs. The creation of the DCAA and the associated oversight bodies might result in overlaps with existing defence entities, potentially complicating decision-making processes rather than streamlining them [Judgment].

Moreover, the bill's reliance on industry partnerships for T&E infrastructure and workforce development may introduce conflicts of interest, as commercial entities could influence the assessments to benefit their own interests. This could undermine the bill's objective of providing independent and unbiased risk assessments [Judgment]. Additionally, there is a risk that the new structures could lead to a dilution of accountability, with multiple entities involved in the oversight process potentially leading to a diffusion of responsibility.