The Hon Melissa Price MP
6 Apr 22
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Related ministers and contacts
The Hon Melissa Price MP
Minister for Defence Industry
Minister for Science and Technology
Media contacts
Ben Spencer (Minister Price’s office): +61 412 754 310
Steve Kuper (Minister Price’s office): +61 421 668 874
Defence Media: media@defence.gov.au
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31 March 2021
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price has today congratulated the Royal Australian Air Force on its centenary.
“In celebrating its centenary – from modest beginnings in 1921 – I am proud and honoured to join my fellow Australians to honour the 350,000 people whose courage, sacrifice and dedication helped build one of the finest air forces in the world,” Minister Price said.
“The occasion is being marked with multiple events, including a spectacular fly past involving 60 current and former aircraft.
“Over the past century, the Royal Australian Air Force has been at the forefront of Australia’s technological advances.
“The aviation industry was born only a few years before the foundation of the RAAF on 31 March 1921 at Point Cook, Victoria.
“Today, the Australian Defence Force employs the most superior technology to keep Australians safe.
“Air Force has done its part by investing in world-leading programs like the Loyal Wingman, Joint Strike Fighter, cyber security and space initiatives.
“Throughout its life Air Force has led from the front by partnering with Australian businesses to support its capabilities.
“In doing so, Air Force has directly contributed to Australian businesses, and there is no doubt will continue to do so with the support of the Australian Government long into the future.”
Minister Price thanked each and every member – past, present and future – for their contribution to Australia’s safety.
“Whether it is defending Australia’s national interests or providing humanitarian and disaster relief here at home or around the globe, Air Force is so often a beacon of hope and living its motto: Per Ardua, Ad Astra – through struggle, to the stars,” Minister Price said.
For more information about the Air Force Centenary program, visit: https://airforce2021.airforce.gov.au
Media can access imagery of Centenary activities at http://images.defence.gov.au/af2021, and vision will be available at https://innovatehub.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/mediahub/ElXlXEvcfyVOjKrgN7afdosBLrei_nT_uVQSDBMorUWC9Q?e=mWE0WQ