I speak today to update the Parliament and the Australian people about Australia’s missions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Since my last statement on 11 December 2013, there have been significant developments in Australia’s mission in Afghanistan, and this year has seen the commencement of the ADF mission in Iraq.
The first priority of the Abbott Government is to ensure the safety and security of our country. Right now, the Abbott Government is considering options for the Navy’s future submarines that will replace the Collins Class.
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA, SENATOR DAVID JOHNSTON & GENERAL FAN CHANGLONG, VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE CENTRAL MILITARY COMMISSION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
I refer to two documents that have been tabled in this house this morning.
Statement by the Minister for Defence Senator the Hon David Johnston at Opening Senate Budget Estimates on 2 June 2014
Paper presented by the Minister for Defence Senator the Hon David Johnston on Afghanistan Tabled in conjunction with a Ministerial Statement on 11 December 2013
I have seen reports that the State Mine fire near Lithgow may have been caused by live ordnance exercises on Marangaroo Defence Range on Wednesday 16 October 2013. Last night I spoke to the Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin, about the matter.
