Senator the Hon Marise Payne
26 Aug 18
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Senator the Hon Marise Payne
Minister for Defence
Media contact
- Henry Budd (Minister Payne’s office) 0429 531 143
- Defence Media (02) 6127 1999
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19 April 2017
Minister for Defence Senator the Hon Marise Payne today paid tribute to Secretary of Defence Dennis Richardson AO who will retire on 12 May.
Dennis has had a singular 48 year career in the public service. His record of service in national security, foreign affairs and defence is incomparable and speaks for itself.
Since I have become Minister, I have never been left in any doubt about Dennis' views. His judgement, insight and unparalleled experience ensured he has been an invaluable source of counsel to me. His depth of knowledge, experience, and his plain speaking will be missed.
Throughout his career Dennis has developed a close and respected network of friends and peers both at home and abroad. On my visits overseas as Defence Minister I have witnessed the high esteem in which he is held by officials, politicians and commentators around the world.
I wish Dennis and his wife Betty all the best for a retirement filled with family, pets, wine and travel.