Zali Steggall (Warringah, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

Our Navy is essential to Australia's national security and defence sovereign capability and industrial strength. Last week, I had the privilege of visiting HMAS Waterhen and HMAS Penguin, both based in Warringah. It was an incredible opportunity to see firsthand the Royal Australian Navy's vital contribution to our national defence, our sovereign capability and to the science and technology that underpin it. As an island nation, Australia's prosperity and security rely heavily on open and secure sea lanes. A strong, agile and well-resourced navy is essential to protecting our national interests and ensuring our sovereignty. At Waterhen and Penguin, the teams of the Mine Warfare, Clearance Diving and Geospatial Force demonstrate extraordinary professionalism, skill and dedication. From mine countermeasures and clearance diving to hydrographic surveying and disaster response, their work safeguards not just defence operations but the very lifelines of our economy and our regional partnerships.

I also want to acknowledge the Navy Clearance Diver Trust, a not-for-profit organisation that supports current and former clearance divers and their families. These men and women perform some of the most demanding roles in the Navy and too many face injury and mental health challenges after service. It's essential that as a nation we better support our veterans to ensure they receive the care, respect and support they deserve.

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