National Defence Statement 2023
There is no more important and consequential task for Government than protecting
the security, interests and livelihoods of its people.
Accordingly, the Albanese Government commissioned an independent Defence
Strategic Review (the Review) to assess whether Australia had the necessary defence
capability, posture and preparedness to best defend Australia and its interests in the
strategic environment we now face.
The Government is grateful to His Excellency, the Hon Stephen Smith, and Air Chief
Marshal Sir Angus Houston AK AFC (Ret’d) for leading this timely and consequential
work. It is the most ambitious review of Defence’s posture and structure since the
Second World War.
The Government supports the strategic direction and key findings set out in the
Review, which will inform all aspects of Australia’s defence policy, planning and
resourcing over the coming decades.
Report attached below.