Senator Linda Reynolds | Government official

Senator Linda Reynolds

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24.01.2022 She’s home! Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Arunta has returned to her homeport of Fleet Base West in Rockingham, Western Australia, after a five-month regional deployment, most recently supporting Operation ARGOS. During her 165 days at sea this year, Arunta concluded three-months on a regional presence deployment as part of a five-ship Task Group in October, before embarking again for a seven-week East Asia deployment to enforce United Nations Security Council sanction...s against North Korea as part of Operation ARGOS. Thank you to the ship’s crew who worked tirelessly and professionally throughout the deployment. And thank you to your families, because without their support, your deployment would not be possible. Senator Matt O'Sullivan Defence Australia Defence Families of Australia (DFA)

23.01.2022 Is there anything better than WA community spirit? The Swanbourne Nedlands Surf Life Saving Club pulled together to upgrade and revitalise their patrol tower, reducing the cost to the club from $75,000 to just over $20,000. This important upgrade allows the Swanbourne Nedlands Surf Life Saving Club (SNSLSC) to keep our community safe. ... It's an incredibly heartwarming example of how local communities are working together to complete the projects they need the most. Now the club needs help with renovating their changerooms, storage and gym. It’s not up to code, it’s not female-friendly, it’s too small and lacks universal access. Our surf lifesavers deserve better. Join Celia Hammond MP, David Honey and I in fighting to secure funding for this project here: https://www.petition.org.au/lifesaving

23.01.2022 Cybercriminals can target anyone, anywhere at anytime. Operating around the clock and around the world, they are ruthless and relentless in their bid to steal data and money from Australians including from business owners. Today the Head of the Cyber Security Centre, Abigail Bradshaw CSC, and I launched Australian Cyber Security Centre’s new national cyber security campaign. The ‘Act Now, Stay Secure’ campaign provides easy-to-follow advice for individuals, families, busine...ss owners and organisations on how to better protect themselves against cybercrime. We heard from a number of Canberra businesses Z and Co. Studio - ZAIJA, CanBiz Consultants, Dimitries Jewellers, X-RD and Kord Defence today to hear firsthand about the cyber security challenges they face every day. With Australians reporting more than one cybercrime every 10 minutes, it’s more important than ever that we all remain alert to the threat of cybercrime. The new campaign will assist business owners across Australia to address these challenges and help them to be more proactive against cyber threats. I urge all Australians to go online and to visit https://www.cyber.gov.au for tips on how to protect yourself and your business online. Peter Dutton Zed Seselja

22.01.2022 Western Australia’s agricultural sector is world-class and exports 80 per cent of its produce. That’s why in #Budget2020 the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government announced $328 million investment in the Busting Congestion for Agricultural Exporters package. The four-year package will reduce red tape for farmers and help them get to market faster while supporting jobs in regional and rural Australia. ... I’m proud to be a part of a Government which is backing Australian businesses as a part of our COVID-19 economic recovery plan.

22.01.2022 As Minister for Defence, alongside #YourADF, I am working with our close regional partners to advance Australia’s interests in an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Earlier this month HMAS Ballarat joined the Indian Navy, U.S. Navy and (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force) for Phase 1 of #ExerciseMALABAR. The exercise enhances our interoperability and maritime capabilities with our close regional partners , and I look forward to sustained cooperation.... Royal Australian Navy Defence Australia

22.01.2022 As Australia’s Minister for Defence and on behalf of our Defence and Veteran communities, today I congratulate the family of Teddy Sheean. I express admiration for their dedicated efforts over many decades in finding the truth of what happened aboard HMAS Armidale on that fateful day, 1 December 1942. Seventy-eight years ago today, our nation lost a hero. That was Teddy Sheean’s day, and it was his last.... Today, Teddy’s day has come again. Recognised with our nation’s highest award for valour - the Victoria Cross for Australia. Thank you for your service, Ordinary Seaman Edward ‘Teddy’ Sheean VC. A nation stands proud on your broad shoulders. Defence Australia

21.01.2022 Congratulations on a job well done! Capable adaptable professional. The crew of HMAS Ballarat reflect on the success of #ExerciseMALABAR 2020 and their own contributions to the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific. The exercise was a milestone opportunity to boost interoperability with key our regional partners and contribute collectively to regional security.... Royal Australian Navy Defence Australia

21.01.2022 The Hills are alive! This Friday in Kalamunda, where I grew up, I’ll be meeting with Liam Staltari - Liberal for Kalamunda and the community over a cup of tea. Now more than ever it’s important to stay connected which is why I’m thrilled to be going home to provide an update on the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government response to COVID-19 and to hear from the local community. ... When: 3.30pm Friday, 25 September Where: Kalamunda Agricultural Hall RSVPs: Are essential to 9477 5411 or [email protected] Hope to see you there!

20.01.2022 In another win for Australian industry and Australian jobs, the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government has signed a sovereign Training Support Services contract with Lockheed Martin Australia for the global Joint Strike Fighter Program. Valued at up to $100 million, the contract will see more than 70 people from Australian industry locally employed at Royal Australian Air Force bases Williamtown in NSW, and Tindal in the NT. This includes operation and maintenance support for six ...Joint Strike Fighter Full Mission Simulators at RAAF Base Williamtown with plans to install four more simulators at RAAF Base Tindal in 2021, ensuring #AusAirForce pilot training can take place right here in Australia. The global Joint Strike Fighter Program is delivering unprecedented economic opportunities for businesses right across Australia, opportunities that Australian companies are seizing. This Government is committed creating jobs for Australian workers and opportunities for Australian industry and we’re delivering. Melissa Price MP Defence Australia

20.01.2022 Un delizioso assaggio di Italia a Gracie's CAFE! Ken Wyatt, George Tilbury - Liberal for Forrestfield and I met with residents to discuss local issues. George is a passionate and effective advocate for the people of Forrestfield. He’s fighting for increased police presence in Forrestfield and for a better plan for the Tonkin Highway and Hale Road intersection upgrade. I know first hand what a disaster the current plan would be for residents in Forrestfield and Wattle Grov...e. Locals in Forrestfield deserve better. As a Senator for Western Australia, I look forward to working with Ken and George to ensure your voices are heard.

19.01.2022 #YourADF has shown it’s adaptability by modifying its operations and training exercises to be #COVIDSafe in order to continue protecting and defending our nation’s interests. #businessasusualfordefence. More than 40 of the Australian Army’s newest officers are in the final stages of training prior to becoming qualified troop commanders in the corps of Royal Australian Engineers. The Regimental Officer’s Basic Course (ROBC) involves challenging and realistic training scenarios... that will provide the Lieutenants with the skills required as Army mobility and survivability experts. The culminating field exercise for the eight and a half month ROBC is Exercise Kokoda staged inside the Liverpool Military Area. For two and half weeks the engineers were subjected to a range of combat and operational scenarios, many involving live demolition. Australian Combat Engineers are responsible for ensuring Army can move and fight, they are specialists in demolition, bridge and obstacle construction, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear survivability as well as force protection. Defence Australia

19.01.2022 Celebrating ten years of the #ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus today with my counterparts from across the #IndoPacific. Australia shares ASEAN’s commitment to a peaceful, inclusive and sovereign Indo-Pacific. ASEAN centrality is more important than ever. Congratulations to Vietnam on a successful ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus and a productive year as ASEAN Chair. We appreciate your effective stewardship during a challenging year.

19.01.2022 Nine more Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft have touched down at their new home at RAAF Base Williamtown, bringing the total to 30 of the planned 72-strong fleet. The fifth-generation F-35A Joint Strike Fighter - along with the F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler - is a key component of Australia’s technologically advanced, lethal and potent air combat capability. Defence Australia

19.01.2022 321 Royal Australian Air Force first-ever rocket launch from Australia zoomed to the edge of space today at Mach 5 from the Southern Launch Koonibba Test Range in South Australia. The unique DART rocket contained a prototype radio frequency receiver unit designed for Air Force to explore how networked sensors at high altitude can significantly improve Defence situational awareness. This event will go down in history - we have lift off on an exciting future for Australian r...ocket launches! DEWC Systems

19.01.2022 Interested in a new career? In a digital world, where connectivity extends to the battlefield, we need our best and brightest cyber operators defending our Defence networks and missions systems. That’s why the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government is investing more than $41 million in the ADF Cyber Gap Program over the next four years, supporting up to 800 students. This year’s pilot program is now underway, offering financial support, mentoring and Defence work experience opport...unities for cyber students across Australia. The Program allows students to better understand the roles and responsibilities of a Defence cyber operator, and the important mission they undertake. The Program is open to Australian citizens who are already enrolled in or are about to commence cyber-related studies that run for a minimum of 12 months. Enrolments for the 2021 intake are open so please share if you know someone looking for a new career: https://www.dta.gov.au//australian-defence-force-cyber-gap

19.01.2022 Meet Royal Australian Air Force’s newest recruits! Sporting their new ‘learner’ coats, these pups have started an intensive training program at RAAF Security and Fire School at RAAF Base Amberley to prepare for their future military careers. For six weeks, they’ll be exposed to play-based training to develop a number of skills including better confidence, chasing, retrieving, biting and detecting scent before being placed with a family for 12 weeks.... At six months old the pups will then enter a development program where they’ll remain until they begin the military working dog basic course and are paired up with their future handler to commence operational duties. I’m sure they’ll be the paw-fect additions to #AusAirForce! Defence Australia

18.01.2022 In a milestone achievement for Australian industry, over 50 Australian companies have been awarded more than $2.7 billion in contracts for the Global Joint Strike Fighter F-35 Program. The Joint Strike fighter is the most capable and best-value fifth generation multi-role fighter to meet Australia’s air power needs and Australian industry is at the forefront of this innovation. Reaching this significant milestone ahead of schedule is a testament to the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) ...Government’s early involvement in the Program, allowing for outstanding opportunities for Australian industry. This is what happens when Government has faith and belief in the capability of Australian industry and Australian workers to rise to the challenge. The Joint Strike Fighters will be the backbone of the Royal Australian Air Force’s future air combat operations. We are acquiring 72 Joint Strike Fighter aircrafts and already have 30 here in Australia. This Government is committed to maximising opportunities for Australian industry and championing innovative Australian companies to win work in the Global Joint Strike Fighter Program. Melissa Price MP Senator Hollie Hughes Defence Australia

18.01.2022 Thousands of local jobs, boosting our economy and strengthening Australia’s defence capability. That’s what the world-leading shipyard at Osborne South in South... Australia will deliver with the commencement of our $45 billion Hunter Class Frigate program. Today while visiting this impressive precinct, which is now complete and ready for handover, I met with some of the apprentices who will be working and learning their trades there, the first of many Australians who will start lifelong careers at Osborne South. Our government’s #JobMaker plan is not just about recovering jobs that have been lost as a result of the #COVID19 recession, but also investing in building for the future and creating new jobs.

18.01.2022 COVID-19 vaccine update. The Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government is committed to providing safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines free to everyone living in Australia. The roll-out and distribution of the vaccine is being finalised, and updates will be communicated on www.health.gov.au/covid19-vaccines. ... The Morrison Government has invested a total of $6.3 billion in support of Australia’s COVID-19 Vaccine and Treatment Strategy, securing access to over 150 million vaccine doses. Expressions of interest are now open for pharmacies across Australia, to join the nation-wide effort to administer the vaccines over the coming months.

16.01.2022 Thank you to Kalamunda RSL president Geof Irvin and members for hosting me on Friday night, fantastic to catch up with old friends and to make new ones. Great to be able to join you for my local RSLWA branch AGM, congratulations to the incoming Executive members. A big shout out also to the kids from Kalamunda P&SHS education unit for performing ‘Fight Song’ in Auslan you were amazing a few teary sets of eyes, including mine.

16.01.2022 Australian workers and Australian companies = sovereign defence capability. Workers across the Hunter region are helping deliver a sovereign defence capability as part of the @Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government’s investment in the global Joint Strike Fighter program. Over 50 Australian companies have been awarded more than $2.7 billion in contracts for the program, with 27 of those companies employing Australian workers in New South Wales.... Companies in the Hunter region including Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems Australia and Milskil are already making a significant contribution to the program in the areas of maintenance, training and logistics. As part of this program Australians are maintaining Australia’s sovereign capability, demonstrating how the Joint Strike Fighter program is providing longer-term opportunities for Australians. This Government is maximising local opportunities for workers and driving investment in the Hunter through the global Joint Strike Fighter program. This comes at such an important time during our economic recovery from #COVID19. Melissa Price MP Royal Australian Air Force Defence Australia

15.01.2022 Australia and Malaysia are close partners. It’s a partnership that dates back to Australia’s military commitment to the Malaysian peninsula during the Second World War. This month marks 50 years since the establishment of Rifle Company Butterworth. Over this time, 25,000 Australian Army’s soldiers have served as part of Rifle Company Butterworth. Their presence is not only an enduring feature of our defence relationship with Malaysia, but also of our shared commitment to peac...e and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. I thank them all for their service. Rifle Company Butterworth supports #YourADF to develop key skills and undertake training in jungle warfare and cross-training with the Malaysian Army. Over the past 50 years we have learnt a great deal about each other’s cultures and capabilities. Rifle Company Butterworth is also an important element of Australia’s contribution to exercises and activities under the Five Power Defence Arrangements, a key piece of regional architecture which supports a secure and stable region. Defence Australia

15.01.2022 There are few Defence personnel more passionate about protecting our land and closing the gap than Australian Army’s Regional Force Surveillance Group (RFSG). The men and women from the 51st Battalion, The Far North Queensland Regiment; the North West Mobile Force - NORFORCE; and The Pilbara Regiment - Australian Army are responsible for patrolling and protecting our nation’s north. They patrol approximately 40% of Australia - from Geraldton in the West to Cairns in the Eas...t and all the way to our northern shores. The RFSG delivers critically important border surveillance capability including border protection and inland patrol. For Commander RFSG, COL John Papalitsas, and RFSG members, protecting our borders is an ongoing, real-time operation that contributes to our nation’s sovereignty. Almost 40 percent of the 1,358 members are Indigenous men and women who enlist not just from local communities but from across our nation. Thank you all for your invaluable service to your nation. #YourADF

15.01.2022 WA naval shipbuilding has gone from zero to boom in just seven years, thanks to investment by the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government to build up to 45 vessels at Henderson worth around $16 billion. Here’s a snapshot of shipbuilding underway today in WA: Austal is building 21 Guardian Class patrol boats and six Cape Class patrol boats, employing some 500 workers;... Luerssen Australia and Civmec are building 10 Arafura offshore patrol vessels, employing more than 200 workers, with 300 companies in the supply chain; The Warship Asset Management Alliance is sustaining and upgrading our ANZAC Class frigates, supporting more than 200 workers; and Intermediate and mid-cycle docking by ASC to maintain our regionally-superior Collins Class submarines. And there’s more to come, thanks to Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government’s $183 billion commitment which includes the build and sustainment of more than 70 naval vessels here in Australia. Now the State Government must deliver on its long-discussed master plan and upgrade facilities at Henderson to ensure WA is ready for more jobs, more work, and more investment. Read my editorial in The West Australian: Defence Australia Royal Australian Navy

14.01.2022 Today, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we paused to remember and honour those who fought for our freedoms. One year after the guns fell silent on the Western Front, allied countries first came together to honour the courage and sacrifice of their World War One fallen. Today I joined Scott Morrison (ScoMo), Governor-General of Australia, General Angus Campbell, Melissa Price MP and Darren Chester MP at the Remembrance Day National Ceremony at the Australian... War Memorial in Canberra to observe one minute’s silence in memory of the service and sacrifice of all men and women who have fought for our freedoms. As we honour their service, we also acknowledge and thank more than 3,000 servicemen and women who are currently deployed on #YourADF operations overseas, as well as those serving at home, supporting the Government’s response to #COVID19. Lest we forget. Royal Australian Navy Royal Australian Air Force Australian Army Defence Australia

14.01.2022 Want an insight into what it’s like to be Defence Minister and Senator for WA? The Reynolds Report is distributed regularly & gives an inside look at #YourADF, what’s happening nationally & also in my home state of Western Australia. Sign up here: https://www.lindareynolds.com.au/news/the-reynolds-report/

13.01.2022 There is nothing like returning home! Thank you to Kalamunda residents for joining me and Liam Staltari - Liberal for Kalamunda for afternoon tea and a wonderfully wide-ranging discussion. It was a great opportunity to hear from the local community about the issues that matter most to them and for me to outline how the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) government is responding to the #COVID19 pandemic. Liam is an energetic and passionate local voice, an outstanding community candidate... for Kalamunda. My heart remains in Gooseberry Hill and I couldn’t be more impressed with Liam’s vision for the future both for his local community and for our great state.

13.01.2022 This year has been a challenging one for us all. When the desire to be close to families has been so strong, thousands of personnel from #YourADF who have served on Operation #COVID19Assist have been separated from their families for many months. For more than 90 personnel from Brisbane’s 7th Combat Brigade, the separation from their loved ones is finally over. After a two-month deployment in Victoria and 14-days in hotel quarantine, personnel arrived home to their families ...this afternoon. Thank you for your dedication and service in supporting Australians through this challenging time. Thank you for demonstrating Defence’s adaptability by adopting new ways of working to stay #COVIDSafe. And thank you to our Defence families who make your service possible. Defence Families of Australia (DFA)

13.01.2022 Australia joins the people of Papua New Guinea in celebrating 45 years of independence this week. Australia is a close and longstanding partner to Papua New Guinea. We share an enduring partnership of warmth and affinity. It is a country that I have visited many times over the past decade and I have come to develop a great affection for its people. Earlier this year, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) deployed to Australia in support of Operation #BushfireAssist a h...istoric milestone for both our nations. Now #PNGDF and #YourADF are working together on the shared challenges that come from #COVID19. Our Defence forces will continue to work side-by-side as family to support each other and to strengthen and elevate our security partnership #AusPNGPartnership #wantoks

12.01.2022 The Indigenous men and women who join the Australian Army’s Regional Force Surveillance Group (RFSG) are of immeasurable value, not just as soldiers, but as soldiers with deep connections to the land. I visited Defence Establishment Berrimah in the Northern Territory with Dr Sam McMahon this month to see the new Army programs that are successfully setting these recruits up for success: The Army Indigenous Development Program: this five-month program seeks to assist potenti...al recruits with developing education, aptitude, fitness and resilience skills. The Indigenous Pre Recruit Program: this six-week program is for those who need to develop their confidence, resilience and fitness standards before joining as soldiers. RFSG Education and Development Course: The REDC is a modularised program designed to assist Indigenous members of the Regional Force Surveillance Group improve their trade and promotion prospects, and giving them skills for their civilian lives. This is another demonstration by Army of unity, support and a dedication to #ClosingtheGap. Even though some participants don’t choose to become soldiers, they develop crucial life skills in the programs at RFSG and can take them back to their communities as leaders.

12.01.2022 It’s that time of year again the defence blood challenge! The Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force, Australian Army and Defence Australia are competing to make the most number of donations by December 8. Now in its 12th year, the challenge is Australia’s largest annual blood donation event. The need for blood never stops. I encourage all Defence personnel to get involved and donate to this extremely worthy cause.... Have you donated yet? You can find all the information, here: https://www.donateblood.com.au/lifeblood-teams/defence Australian Red Cross #readysetgive

12.01.2022 Happy 25th anniversary! The Royal Australian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy have completed the bilateral Exercise SINGAROO in Southeast Asia. This year, the guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart with an embarked MH-60R helicopter, and auxiliary oiler HMAS Sirius joined four Singaporean warships, a submarine and aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Air Force to train together to enhance professional ties and interoperability. This three-day exercise underlines the importance of military-to-military cooperation and builds on our ability to work together. #YourADF #AusNavy

12.01.2022 Congratulations to my friend and colleague Ken Wyatt on his 10th anniversary as the Federal Member for Hasluck. The definition of a pathfinder is a leader who discovers new paths and shows others the new way. Ken is a pathfinder, as demonstrated through a lifetime of remarkable firsts. Ken and his wife Anna share a passion to make a difference in their community and to pave the way for the next generation. ... In Ken’s first speech, he passionately spoke about his own journey. Of very real and palpable intergenerational trauma and disadvantage. Of opportunities offered to him, which he readily embraced. Ken also spoke of his belief in the enduring Liberal values of equality, of opportunity and the importance of us all standing on our own worth. The community of Hasluck has a compassionate leader in Ken, who continues to serve with great respect and commitment. Ken, congratulations on your first ten years and your many firsts, may there be many more. It is a privilege to call you a friend and to have you as a fellow Liberal.

10.01.2022 There is no doubt that the aviation industry has been hit particularly hard this year by #COVID19. Today I met Ben and Colin, two former Jetstar technicians who lost their jobs with the recent closure of the airline’s maintenance facility near Newcastle NSW. Ben and Colin are two of 25 workers who have been recruited to start a new career in #defenceindustry as part of the global F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.... They have commenced training with BAE Systems Australia and will start their new roles in January where they will support ongoing maintenance of our Joint Strike Fighter fleet and Hawk Lead in Fighter aircraft. This is yet another example of the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government working with Australian #defenceindustry to help our economy recover from #COVID19 and get Australians back into work. Congratulations on your new careers in defence industry, Ben and Colin! Melissa Price MP Senator Hollie Hughes Defence Australia

09.01.2022 Operation #COVID19Assist in Victoria has just hit a milestone, with ADF personnel conducting 250,000 COVID tests in support of the State Government’s efforts to fight the pandemic. Throughout the pandemic, #YourADF has been on the frontline, including assisting with contract tracing, #COVID19 screening and even manufacturing face masks. This milestone shows the level of commitment and dedication #YourADF has in supporting Australia during this challenging time.... To all the ADF personnel involved, thank you for your service. Thank you for being some of the first in Australia to adapt your operations to be #COVIDSafe in order to continue to protect and defend our nation. And thank you to ADF families for your support of deployed personnel. Without your support, this momentous effort in the national interest would not be possible. #TYFYS Defence Families of Australia (DFA)

09.01.2022 A warm and productive first meeting with the US Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller today. We discussed our enduring partnership and deep military interoperability. We also reaffirmed our commitment to a secure, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Australia’s Alliance with the United States continues to be our most important defence relationship. We share over 100 years of mateship.... U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Defence Australia

09.01.2022 Defence is a strategic national asset. Just as we develop our Defence capabilities, our Defence enterprise must continue to adapt to our changing strategic environment. When I became Minister for Defence I set three key priorities for Defence Australia Strategy, Capability and Reform.... In July, Scott Morrison (ScoMo) and I announced the 2020 Defence Strategic Update which addresses strategy and outlines this Government’s response to the challenges facing our nation. We also announced the 2020 Force Structure Plan, which addresses capability through a $275 billion investment in defence capability over the next decade to upgrade the capability and potency of #YourADF. Today, I launched the third priority Reform. Lead the Way: Defence Transformation Strategy is a new framework to evolve Defence’s strategic purpose, performance and accountability. It will ensure that Defence is even more effective in responding to an uncertain strategic environment and rapid technological change. Continuous transformation will improve Defence’s ability to defend Australia and its national interests for the people of Australia. Find out more here: https://www1.defence.gov.au//Defence-Transformation-Strate #OneDefence #ShapeDeterRespond Australian Defence Force Academy

08.01.2022 I recently visited four of Australia’s Indo-Pacific partners in person to discuss further strengthening our defence partnerships and cooperation. Like Australia, our regional partners want an Indo-Pacific that is secure, prosperous and where sovereign interests of all states are respected. Because without security in our region there is no prosperity.... Japan Ministry of Defense Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF) Ministry of Defence, Brunei Darussalam Department of National Defense - Philippines Defence Australia

08.01.2022 We do have a belief in what the new team can deliver and certainly a lot of energy for it as well. Those words from Libby Mettam capture perfectly her appetite for hard work, and the energy and optimism for the future that she brings to the Liberals WA And now as the new Deputy Leader, Libby will use those personal traits to push hard for a better deal for all West Australians.... With just 104 days to go until the State Election, you will see and hear a lot more from this talented and energetic Liberal woman as she works alongside new leader Zak Kirkup to show that the great state of WA can be an even better place to live. We are behind you, Libby! Read her story in The Sunday Times here: https://thewest.com.au//deputy-leader-of-the-wa-liberal-pa

08.01.2022 Care from the air! In yet another example of Defence Australia’s proactive preparation for this year’s High Risk Weather Season, #YourADF personnel are developing a safer and more effective way to airdrop fodder to livestock that are stranded by floods or fires. Building on previous experience of delivering fodder both by land and by helicopters during the devastating Black Summer Bushfires, Defence is using its skills to help in times of need.... The trials include constructing a new box to ensure the fodder’s safe and smooth exit from the aircraft, limiting dust and debris, whilst also seamlessly dispersing feed when it hits the ground. What an outstanding demonstration of innovation and ingenuity by #YourADF. Royal Australian Air Force

07.01.2022 Touch down! U.S. Marine Corps personnel from the tenth Marine Rotational Force - Darwin (MRF-D) have landed in the NT. Personnel will undergo mandatory quarantine at a defence facility and #COVID19 testing before commencing training with #YourADF including humanitarian assistance and high-end live-fire exercises. During my trip to the NT in September last year I met with MRF-D personnel who were participating in the rotation, and observed a Battalion Live Fire Attack. ... They worked seamlessly together in a strong display of our #Alliance in action. More info: https://www.minister.defence.gov.au//arrival-2021-marine-r Defence Australia U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) U.S. Embassy Canberra

06.01.2022 Congratulations to Zak Kirkup MP and Libby Mettam on their new leadership roles in the WA Liberal Party. I look forward to working with you to secure a safe and prosperous future for all Western Australians.

06.01.2022 New milestone for the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government’s multi-billion dollar Infantry Fighting Vehicle program. Six prototype test and evaluation vehicles have now been delivered. The $18.1 - 27.1bn LAND 400 Phase 3 Program is equipping Australian Army with advanced, cutting-edge Infantry Fighting Vehicle capability. Defence Australia is acquiring up to 450 Infantry Fighting Vehicles and a Manoeuvre Support Vehicle capability comprising up to 17 vehicles.... The state-of-the-art armoured vehicles will provide #YourADF with increased protection, mobility and firepower. This program is part of the Morrison Government’s commitment to investing in Australia’s sovereign defence capability to protect Australia’s interests in a challenging environment.

05.01.2022 I was honoured to provide this important message on modern slavery. Today, tens of millions of vulnerable children around the world are trapped and exploited in the most insidious ways. Shockingly, many Australians are unwittingly contributing to this exploitation. Children are all too often victims of modern slavery, and, in the case of the appalling practice of orphanage tourism, they are often hidden in plain sight.... I first learned about orphanage tourism during a field visit to Cambodia with Save the Children in early 2016. It shocked and horrified me. How could I have not known? How could Australians be contributing to the trafficking of children? When I came home I was determined to alert my colleagues and community to this heinous practice. But big changes never come easily. It took time, advocacy and plain hard work. I wrote to schools, I pushed for government-led awareness raising campaigns, and I teamed up with NGOs in Australia and around the world. I tapped into an international community of remarkable people who care and who are committed to ending the trafficking and exploitation of children in ‘so called’ orphanages. As a Senator in the Australian Parliament, I proudly sponsored and participated in the Parliamentary Inquiry into Establishing a Modern Slavery Act in Australia. When it passed the Modern Slavery Act in 2018, the Australian Parliament became the first in the world to formally recognise orphanage tourism as trafficking and as a form of modern slavery. Facing and tackling this humanitarian injustice is a shared international responsibility. Australia’s legislation can only be truly effective if the world’s nations come together to insist on justice and freedom from slavery for millions of vulnerable children. All of us can and must do something to expose it and to end it. You can help just by watching and sharing this video. I salute the advocacy and achievements of CPA UK.

05.01.2022 The Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government is equipping #YourADF with game-changing capability through a new collaborative agreement with the US to develop and test a hypersonic cruise missile prototype. Another milestone for our Alliance. Under the Southern Cross Integrated Research Experiment with the US, our Government is delivering on our commitment made in the Defence Strategic Update to develop high-speed long-rage strike capabilities. We’re strengthening Australia’s so...vereign #defenceindustry and #defencecapability while creating more long-term high-tech Australian jobs as the economy recovers from #COVID19. The experiment will culminate in flight demonstrations to demonstrate how the weapon performs in operational conditions. Royal Australian Air Force Defence Australia

04.01.2022 The healthcare given to #YourADF whilst they’re on deployment serving our nation is a key priority of the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government. Our $370 million investment to acquire a modernised Deployable Health Capability will revolutionise the way we care and support our people. Ranging from basic primary healthcare through to specialist surgical services, we will have a Defence healthcare response that is self-reliant, scalable and flexible to support warfighting and humani...tarian assistance and disaster relief operations. Through our partner Saab Australia, we will become a regional hub for the design and development of deployable health solutions opening new opportunities for Australian businesses to benefit from this technology transfer to strengthen our position in the global market. #YourADF is proud of this innovation that will have a lasting effect on the healthcare of its people.

04.01.2022 Another milestone for the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government’s Hunter Class Frigate Program . Adelaide based, Indigenous Defence and Infrastructure Consortium and its partner TQCSI-Yaran is the first Indigenous supplier to be contracted to the project and will commence work during the prototyping phase for the #HunterClass Frigate Program. The #HunterClass Frigate Program will provide the Royal Australian Navy with a regionally superior anti-submarine warfare capability.... Today’s milestone demonstrates this Government’s commitment to maximise Australian Industry Content for the Hunter Class Frigate Program, while supporting Australian jobs. The prototyping phase of the program is on track to commence next month. #onschedule BAE Systems Australia Defence Australia Indigenous Defence and Infrastructure Consortium Chief Executive Adam Goodes, ASC Shipbuilding Managing Director Craig Lockhart and TQCSI-Yaran Chairman Rick Callaghan.

04.01.2022 The Royal Australian Navy is highly capable and regionally superior, and this Government’s investment in shipbuilding ensures this capability is sustained well into the future. We’re building more than 70 new vessels right here in Australia over the next 30 years under the Scott Morrison (ScoMo) Government’s $183 billion National Naval Shipbuilding Plan. From submarines and major warships through to patrol boats, riverine watercraft and survey boats, these vessels will equip ...#YourADF with the cutting-edge capability and regional superiority it needs. We’re delivering a strong, sustainable and innovative National Naval Shipbuilding Enterprise supporting thousands of jobs and Australia’s #defenceindustry. Defence Australia

03.01.2022 I feel the red dust has gotten into my blood stream and now the Pilbara is a part of me. When you talk to members of the Regional Force Surveillance Group as I was fortunate enough to do when I visited the Northern Territory recently you can’t help but be struck by their passion for and connection to the land. Responsible for border protection and community engagement patrols in our country’s north, the RFSG often operates in extremely remote areas and is tasked with kn...owing the land and protecting Australia’s interests in our North. Australian Army soldiers are mindful and respectful of country and of the importance of working with remote communities. #TYFYS

01.01.2022 Celebrating women in the Liberal Party This weekend I had the pleasure of joining many of our amazing Liberal women, including candidates for the upcoming State election, State and Federal representatives and Party office bearers to celebrate the contribution of women in the Liberal Party. They are all passionate about contributing to their communities and making a real difference. I thank Liza Harvey for leading our State team with passion, conviction and grace. It is wonderful she will continue as Member for Scarborough.

01.01.2022 An important virtual meeting this week with my Fijian counterpart, Inia Seruiratu for our second annual Australia-Fiji Defence Minister’s meeting. In the face of a very challenging year for both nations, the Australia-Fiji bilateral defence relationship has gone from strength to strength. We have worked side-by-side to support each other through Australia’s catastrophic bushfire season, Tropical Cyclone Harold and #COVID19. In recognition of the growing sophistication of our ...defence engagement, Minister Seruiratu and I were pleased to announce the commencement of negotiations for a reciprocal Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). This landmark bilateral agreement will facilitate the rapid deployment of Australian and Fijian defence personnel in each other’s jurisdictions. We also discussed new ways to progress maritime security cooperation in our region. Australia has been proud to partner with Fiji on the design for a new Maritime Essential Services Centre for Fiji. Today I was pleased to confirm that Australia will also partner with Fiji to fund their new centre, which will greatly facilitate maritime security coordination within Fiji and throughout the region. Our meeting this week delivered on a key commitment made by Scott Morrison (ScoMo) and Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama under the Australia-Fiji Vuvale Partnership to hold regular, high-level dialogues. Fiji NDMO Defence Australia