The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

(1) and (2) The Defence Science Technology Organisation (DSTO) is not involved in tasks associated with the “design of the Collins Class replacement submarine”. However, DSTO is engaged in long-lead Research and Development activities that benefit the Collins Class submarines and the Future Submarine Program. In addition, DSTO is supporting the SEA 1000 project on a range of scientific and technical analysis activities.