John Faulkner (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Cabinet Secretary) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the shadow minister for defence for asking the first defence question from the opposition in this chamber since the Rudd government was elected—in excess of a year.

The issue in relation to the Navy program and Christmas stand-down is an important issue. As I hope senators would understand, our Navy will improve recruitment and retention by changing Navy culture and improving workplace balance. This recognises that significant change is required to prepare Navy for the future with respect to new ships and equipment, current and future work practices and expectation, and, I might say, the drive for efficiencies. The initiative is a three-pronged program involving leadership and values, structural reform and cultural change and will be in place by early 2009.

I am asked the important question by Senator Johnston of whether the stand-down period will affect capability. I can assure Senator Johnston that the reduced activity period is one example of how Navy will be enabled to continue delivering capability while also looking after its people. Operational requirements will still be met throughout this period, and of course, as senators would appreciate, Australia’s national security remains our No. 1 priority. (Time expired)