The Albanese government has opted for continuity over change and safety over boldness in its choice of a new Defence Force chief.
Presented with an opportunity to reshape the nation’s military leadership, the Albanese government has opted for continuity over change and safety over boldness.
“The strategic risks we face require the implementation of a new approach to planning, force posture, force structure, capability development and acquisition,” the review stated. He replaces Angus Campbell, a polarising figure in his almost six-year tenure who clashed with former defence minister Peter Dutton over “politically correct” morning teas to celebrate diversity and whether to remove meritorious unit citations from special forces soldiers who served in Afghanistan.
“This appointment represents steady-as-she-goes and continuity at a time when we require urgent change,” he argues.Johnston’s ascension comes on top of Labor’s decision to appoint Greg Moriarty, who has led the Department of Defence since 2017, to a second five-year term when it came to power last year.The government states that Johnston, now in his early 60s, will only serve a two-year term.
That was the road not taken by the government. Having been overlooked in favour of Johnston, Bilton will now leave the ADF in what insiders say is a major loss for the military. Another frontrunner for the job, Mark Hammond, is staying in his current role as Chief of Navy.Credit:As well as driving AUKUS forward and revamping the naval surface fleet, Johnston faces other major challenges.
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