Senator The Hon. David Feeney MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney, congratulated participants of the five day Civil-Military Interaction Workshop run by the Asia Pacific Civil-Military Centre of Excellence.
The objective of the workshop was to equip participants with knowledge of the planning factors that are critical to the conduct of successful civil-military operations and to familiarise them with each other’s perspectives, operating procedures, methods, limitations and advantages.
Approximately 50 officials from Australia, the Asia–Pacific and Africa, representing government, police, military and non-government organisations who contribute to the conduct of civil-military operations overseas, met at the Australian Emergency Management Institute at Mt Macedon, Victoria from 6 to11 March.
It was an opportunity for all sectors to gain a better insight into civil-military affairs and emerging issues to enhance Civil-Military-Police effectiveness in conflict and disaster management.
“Workshop participants considered civil-military strategies, disaster management, peace and stabilisation operations and opportunities for civil-military-police interaction, with particular attention on the important role of the United Nations,” Senator Feeney said.
“Having just returned from the Solomon Islands and seen the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) first hand, I understand the importance to our region of effective civil-military collaboration.”
Participants heard from subject matter experts from organisations such as: the United Nations, specific countries agencies, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, AusAID, the Australian Defence Force, the Australian Federal Police and the Attorney-General’s Department. The expertise and participation of academic specialists and non-government organisations added to the success of the workshop.
At the key note dinner address, the Asia-Pacific Civil-Military Centre of Excellence Executive Director, Major General Michael G. Smith AO (rtd) explained the growing importance of civil-military relations in conflict and disaster management.
“The objectives of the workshop have not only been met, but our network of international practitioners has been enhanced through your lively participation,” Major General Smith said.
The Asia Pacific Civil-Military Centre of Excellence supports the development of national civil-military capabilities to prevent, prepare for, and respond more effectively to conflicts and disasters overseas. For more information visit: http://civmilcoe.gov.au/
Media Contact: Lorna Clarke – 0408 345 730
