MINISTER CONGRATULATES THE ADFA'S NEW OFFICERS

Representing the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel Warren Snowdon today, Gai Brodtmann, Member for Canberra, congratulated 350 midshipmen and officer cadets who were officially welcomed into the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) during the annual Chief of the Defence Force Parade.

Ms Brodtmann said the parade is a significant milestone for the cadets as it signifies the completion of their Year One Familiarisation Training.

“Over the last five weeks they have been forced out of their comfort zones, and they have had to adapt to working and living in a military environment, but their steadfast determination has allowed them to complete the first phase of their military training.

“Today they stand before their families, friends and members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) community, as junior officers who are about to embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career,” Ms Brodtmann said.

Minister Warren Snowdon said: “Over the next three to four years the cadets will develop the leadership skills and attributes required of junior officers in the ADF. These skills, in addition to the academic knowledge they will acquire from their undergraduate degrees from the University of New South Wales at ADFA, will enable them to become effective officers in the Navy, Army and Air Force.”

During his speech the Reviewing Officer, the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, also recognised the hard work and commitment of ADFA’s new officers.

“Be proud of this moment, and the things that you have accomplished. Also, acknowledge those who have supported you - your family, friends, colleagues and the ADFA staff,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“Life in the ADF has its challenges but it is also a great privilege – for not only are you serving the nation, but you will have the opportunity to work alongside, and inevitability lead, some of the finest men and women in Australia.”

Air Chief Marshal Houston also welcomed 12 new midshipmen and officer cadets from Cambodia, Jordan, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

“It is also important to acknowledge the significant contribution that the international midshipmen and officer cadets make to ADFA. I know that the experience you will bring, the knowledge that you will acquire, and the friendships you will make, will further strengthen the close relationships between our countries,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

Ms Brodtmann said that the midshipmen and officer cadets should feel proud of their achievements and the services that they have joined.

“Today the new officers are formally welcomed into a proud military force which is steeped in history and traditions, and on behalf of the Government I would like to congratulate you on your accomplishments, and wish you success with your military training and academic studies,” Ms Brodtmann said.