DMTC is a joint venture that brings together defence industry, universities and government research agencies to develop new materials and manufacturing technologies that will enhance Australia’s defence capability.

Established in May 2008 and officially launched by the Federal Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research Senator The Hon. Kim Carr on 19 February 2009, DMTC is Australia’s first Defence Future Capability Technology Centre – a Federal Government initiative based on the successful Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) model.

Operational funding is drawn from several sources including a $30 million contribution from the Federal Government and a combined $9 million from the state governments of Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. Collaborative industry and research sector partners provided the balance.

DMTC operates as a public company, limited by guarantee, and is funded for an initial seven-year term.