THE HON. WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Wednesday, 9 July 2008
091/2008
ADF INDIGENOUS RECRUITMENT STRATEGY AND DEFENCE
DIRECTORATE OF INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS
ARE OPERATIONAL
The Australian Defence Force Indigenous Recruitment Strategy and a new Defence
Directorate of Indigenous Affairs were launched today by the Minister for Defence
Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon MP.
“The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has much to offer Indigenous Australians in
areas such as education, training, skills development, employment and health care,”
Mr Snowdon said.
“And Indigenous Australians bring incredible community and country connections that
support military capability throughout the nation.
“But more needs to be done to encourage Indigenous Australians to serve and
remain serving in the ADF.
“The Indigenous Recruitment Strategy coupled with the Directorate of Indigenous
Affairs seeks to bring the best possible policies and programs to bear on changing
perceptions, creating specialised pathways, and providing ongoing support to
Indigenous ADF members.
“Initiatives include tailored preparation programs, improved recognition of Indigenous
culture across Defence, and mentor support all designed to ensure that Indigenous
recruits are well-prepared to join the ADF and succeed in military training and
employment.”
Mr Snowdon said the Directorate of Indigenous Affairs will manage and coordinate
Indigenous employment policies and programs in the ADF and the Department of
Defence. The directorate will draw on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff
network and Indigenous Liaison Officers to help develop other initiatives under the
Recruitment Strategy.
“The ADF now has policies in place and programs underway to boost recruitment
opportunities for Indigenous Australians,” Mr Snowdon said.
“The challenges of health, education, culture and isolation are not insignificant, but
they are also not insurmountable.
“And we must do all we can to enhance the capability of the ADF; and that includes
increasing Indigenous participation.”
Media contacts:
Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):
02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
