PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY KELLY BRIEFS PERSONNEL FROM ANGLESEA AND DERWENT BARRACKS ON THE DEFENCE WHITE PAPER

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM MP, today visited Anglesea Barracks and Derwent Barracks in Tasmania to brief personnel on the new White Paper.

“I’m very pleased to be able to brief personnel from both Anglesea and Derwent Barracks about the Government’s commitment to the Australian Defence Force.” said Dr Kelly. 

The 2009 Defence White Paper provides for significant funding to deliver an Australian Defence Force for the 21^st century.  This funding will be used to improve and enhance a number of elements of the Australian Defence Force including:

·        Enhancements to the weapons systems of the three new Air Warfare Destroyers, with consideration of acquiring a fourth vessel in the future;

·        Continuation of acquisition of two new Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) ships that will invigorate the Australian Defence Force’s amphibious capability;

·        A new Combat Vehicle System which will provide around 1100 vehicles with greatly improved firepower, protection and mobility.  The System will be equipped with the Army’s integrated battle management systems from inception; 

·        Improved mobility through the acquisition of seven new CH47F (Chinook) medium lift helicopters; 

·        Around 100 fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter aircraft and associated weapons systems; 

·        Half of Australia’s F/A-18F Block II Super Hornet fleet will be configured on the production line to enable them to be converted to the EA-18G ‘Growler’ electronic attack variant should later strategic circumstances dictate.

Dr Kelly today also discussed the better integration and management of Reserve forces.

“The Government recognises the invaluable contribution of Reserves.  Reforms will focus on better utilising the skills and experiences Reserves bring to Defence, and developing better ways to integrate part time and full time service in the Defence Force,” said Dr Kelly.

The 2009 Defence White Paper represents the most comprehensive statement on Defence ever produced.  It affirms the Government’s commitment to the defence of Australia, the protection of our sovereign interests and the security and stability of our region.

Media contacts:

Mark Sjolander (Dr Mike Kelly):     02 6277 4840 or 0407 102 220

Defence Media Liaison:                  02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664