Secretary of the Department of Defence, Australia
The Secretary of the Department of Defence is a pivotal role within the Australian Government, responsible for overseeing the Department of Defence, which is charged with supporting the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The Secretary works in tandem with the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) to ensure the effective command and control of the Australian Defence operations.
Role and Responsibilities
The role of the Secretary of Defence involves a combination of administrative leadership and strategic oversight. As the most senior public servant in the Defence Department, the Secretary ensures that military operations, policy formulation, and defence-related strategic planning align with the government's national security objectives. The Secretary also co-chairs the Defence Committee, alongside the Chief of the Defence Force, to steer the comprehensive defence strategy and budgetary allocations.
Current Secretary
As of 2017, Greg Moriarty has served as the Secretary of the Department of Defence. Moriarty's extensive background in both domestic and international security affairs has been instrumental in shaping Australia's defence policies. Before his current appointment, he served in various capacities, including as the Commonwealth Counter Terrorism Coordinator and held ambassadorial roles such as Ambassador to Indonesia and Ambassador to Iran.
Moriarty's educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Honours from the University of Western Australia and a Masters in Strategic and Defence Studies from the Australian National University.
Historical Context
The position of Secretary of the Department of Defence is embedded within the broader structure of the Ministry of Defence, which is tasked with overseeing Australia's national defence. The Secretary collaborates closely with the Minister for Defence, who is responsible for the political aspects of defence policy and military oversight.
Interconnected Roles
The Secretary of Defence works in coordination with other senior officials within the Australian Defence Organisation, including the Department of Veterans' Affairs, which provides support to former military personnel.