14 December 2022
Transcript
As 2022 draws to a close it's time to pause and reflect for a moment. There's a lot to be proud of in all we've achieved throughout the year and importantly the impressive way in which we've gone about our mission and our tasks.
We have rebuilt readiness. We have partnered, innovated, modernized and served our communities and our nation in times of desperate need.
We welcomed more than 3,000 committed Australians to our Army. 31,000 of you participated in courses in our world-class training and education system. More than 10,000 of you deployed on operations. And many thousands of you maintained readiness to respond at a moment's notice.
This year we made important changes to continue transforming our Army to make sure we are a modern fighting force and future ready. Among these changes was the raising of four new health battalions and the transition of the 2nd Division to an independent functional command.
All of this was achieved because of your individual and collective commitment. Your professionalism and our ability to adapt.
2022 has not been without its challenges. The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has continued its important work. And while it is difficult for our Army and for our community, it is an important opportunity for our Defence Force to learn.
We must also continue to balance the demands of domestic emergencies, with building our operational readiness. And we can expect 2023 will continue to present real challenges, but also real opportunities.
The Defence Strategic Review is on track to be presented to Government in the new year. And Army is ready to respond. We will remain agile and do the very best we can with what we have, every day.
I have an overwhelming sense of admiration for our people. Pride in all that you are doing and the way in which you're doing it. Your actions have spoken louder than words, and this is not gone unnoticed.
I extend my sincerest thanks and appreciation to the service and sacrifices of our families. I wish you all a safe and happy Christmas. Enjoy your leave. Spend time with those who matter most to you. Take care of yourself and each other.
And together in 2023 we will continue to serve with purpose and with humility.
An Army for the nation.