THE HON JOEL FITZGIBBON MP
Minister for Defence
Thursday, 3 July 08
076/2008
NEW DEFENCE LEADERSHIP TEAM COMMENCES
A new senior military leadership team will take over command of the Australian
Defence Force tomorrow.
The Minister for Defence, the Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon MP, said the Prime Minister,
Kevin Rudd had announced changes to the leadership team earlier this year. These
changes involved new appointments to the positions of Vice Chief of the Defence
Force, Chief of Navy, Chief of Army and Chief of the Air Force.
“The Chiefs of Navy, Army and Air Force will retire today from the Australian Defence
Force having completed their terms in office.
“On behalf of all Australians I would like to thank Vice Admiral Russ Shalders,
Lieutenant General Peter Leahy and Air Marshal Geoff Shepherd for the valued
contribution they have made to the Navy, Army and Air Force.
“They have had distinguished careers in the military. I thank them for their
commitment and hard work in defending and protecting our nation and maintaining
our capability. I wish them all the best in their retirement from the Australian Defence
Force,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
The Australian Defence Force will retain an experienced leadership team. From
tomorrow Lieutenant General David Hurley, previously the Commander Joint
Operations, will be the new Vice Chief of the Defence Force.
New Service Chiefs will also take over command of the Navy, Army and Air Force:
Vice Admiral Russ Crane will become the Chief of Navy, Lieutenant General Ken
Gillespie will become the Chief of Army, and Air Marshal Mark Binskin will become
the Chief of Air Force.
The current Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, will
continue to command the Australian Defence Force. Each of these appointments to
the Defence leadership team is for a three-year term.
Mr Fitzgibbon said he was looking forward to working with the new Defence
leadership team.
“These senior military officers have considerable operational experience. I am
confident that they will provide strong and effective leadership to the Australian
Defence Force and continue the high standards of military professionalism the
Australian Defence Force is renowned for,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
Media contacts:
Christian Taubenschlag (Joel Fitzgibbon):
02 6277 7800 or 0438 595 567
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
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