Richard Marles

ALP Federal

AI Summary

• Meghan Quinn appointed as Secretary of the Department of Defence.
• First woman to lead the Department of Defence.
• Previously served as Secretary of the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.
• Experience includes roles at Treasury and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
• Greg Moriarty thanked for his contributions and will become Australia’s next Ambassador to the US.

AI Summary

• Meghan Quinn appointed as first female Defence Secretary, chosen for her extensive experience.
• AUKUS agreement receives strong support despite UK inquiry concerns; milestones for submarine construction on track.
• Richard Marles welcomes new US Ambassador Dave Brat, confident in US-Australia relations regarding AUKUS.
• Condemnation of booing at Anzac Day events, with emphasis on the need for respect during ceremonies.

AI Summary

• Members raised concerns about the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East.
• The Australian government's stance and diplomatic efforts were questioned.
• There were calls for increased support for affected populations.

AI Summary

• Concerns raised about Australia's fuel security amidst rising global tensions.
• Questions directed at the Defence Minister regarding the Australian Defence Force's preparedness.
• Discussion on the potential impact of fuel shortages on national security and military operations.

A strong, capable Defence Force needs land that is fit-for-purpose so that it can train and operate effectively. The independent Defence Estate Audit found that a number of sites are no longer critical to Defence’s operations and financially unsustainable for us to keep. That doesn’t mean these sites don’t hold incredible heritage and cultural value, for Defence but also for their local communities. Consultations are now occurring for sites around the country. These meetings will give community leaders and the public the chance to learn more about the transition of these sites away from Defence, ask questions and give feedback. Find out more here: https://www.defence.gov.au/about/locations-property/delivering-future-estate/defence-estate-audit-community-information-sessions

The biggest order of Bushmasters since 1999. That’s what we've just announced. And it’ll mean the iconic Aussie Bushmaster will continue being built right here in Bendigo. Delivering the capability the Australian Army needs. Providing the certainty the local workforce needs. And backing the manufacturing capability Australia needs.

An honour to meet with Kiribati President Taneti Maamau in Tarawa today to talk about our deep connection with the Pacific and strengthening our relationship.

Another productive day of important discussions and bilateral meetings at the @MunSecConf with some of our partners from Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

Australia needs drone technology for our national security. Conflicts overseas have highlighted just how necessary drones are, and how rapidly these technologies advance. In Australia we already have world-leading, Australian-produced drone tech. This isn’t luck - we’ve invested heavily to make it happen. And our ongoing investment will help us to expand Defence’s fleet of autonomous and uncrewed systems, while also strengthening our sovereign defence industry.

Japan is one of our closest defence partners and friends. It was an honour to meet with my counterpart Minister Shinjirō Koizumi today in Tokyo as we continue working together to grow our already strong partnership, and respond to developments in the global and regional security environment.