Australia’s New Defense Minister, Senator Marise Payne, made her first official visit to a Defense unit on September 25, embarking in HMAS Canberra in Far North Queensland.
Along with Chief of Defense, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, Defense Secretary Dennis Richardson and Service Chiefs, Senator Payne visited the Amphibious Ready Element and met with some of the sailors, airmen and airwomen training as part of the SEA SERIES of exercises.
Commenting on the official visit, Senator Payne said:
This is an important opportunity in my first week as Defense Minister to see all three services and the work they do, particularly with the development of our amphibious capability.
Air Chief Marshal Binskin said being onboard Canberra during a major exercise was a great experience for a new minister.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials, as well as other government agencies, are supporting the Australian Defense Force to develop this amphibious capability in preparation for future humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, as well as providing security within the region.
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Image: Australian Navy