Assistant Minister for Defence - Assistant Minister for Defence visit to New Zealand

Assistant Minister for Defence Stuart Robert today completed his visit to New Zealand where he met with the New Zealand Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Air Vice-Marshal Kevin Short and other senior military personnel and officials.

“New Zealand and Australia share a strong bond of friendship, and we have a long history of our sailors, soldiers, and airmen operating together in meeting our joint security challenges,” Mr Robert said.

“During my visit I was afforded the opportunity to exchange views and share perspectives on a range of issues affecting our two Defence organisations. These included personnel, defence science and technology, and other shared interests.”

Mr Robert said he was also privileged to visit the New Zealand Defence Technology Agency and receive briefings on New Zealand’s Limited Service Volunteer Program.

“New Zealand’s Limited Volunteer Program was impressive, and has been successful in improving outcomes for and developing the skills of young people,” he said.

“I was pleased to see New Zealand’s Defence Technology Agency (DTA) and our own Defence Science and Technology Organisation have developed a strong partnership. I welcomed the opportunity to discuss key organisational challenges and research priorities of the DTA with its Director, Dr Brian Young.

“I also appreciated the chance to discuss broader Defence personnel issues including workforce planning and the role of workforce diversity in enhancing Defence capability.”

Mr Robert said close cooperation in the fields of personnel, including joint training and exchanges, and defence science and technology will only serve to further strengthen the Australia-New Zealand defence relationship.

Media contacts:

Minister Robert's Office (02) 6277 7730

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999