SUBMARINE PLAN IN NATIONAL INTEREST

The Minister for Defence, Science and Personnel, the Hon Warren Snowdon MP, today welcomed Navy’s plan to better attract, nurture, lead and retain the special Australians who serve our nation in its submarine force.

The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Russ Crane, AM, CSM, RAN, has released a plan to stabilise and improve Australia’s submarine fleet, by taking steps to address a shortage of trained personnel.

“I congratulate Vice Admiral Crane on immediately beginning work to safeguard Australia’s national security,” Mr Snowdon said.

The Submarine Workforce Sustainability Review was completed late last year. It made 29 recommendations. Vice Admiral Crane is implementing them all.

 “The Review pulls no punches and I am pleased to see Navy has taken its findings so seriously”.

“While Australia’s submarine fleet remains capable, its long term sustainability depends on the wellbeing of Navy’s submariners. The Government looks forward to positive outcomes from Navy’s new recruitment and retention measures.”

Navy’s Submarine Sustainability Program will follow a five phase strategy designed to develop a sustainable submarine workforce over the next five years.

An unclassified version of the Submarine Workforce Sustainability Review will be available from 8 April 2009 at: www.Navy.gov.au.

Media contacts:

Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):           02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689

Defence Media Liaison:                         02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664