Speech celebrating the 50th anniversary of Defence Science and Technology Group, Government House, Canberra

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Welcome to Government House. It’s a huge delight to host you this afternoon. 

To continue to celebrate with you DSTG’s 50th anniversary. 

And to reconnect with many of you who gathered in Canberra for ADSTAR in September.

As I reflected then, you work at the intersection of two of Australia’s proudest and most impressive fortes: science and defence. 

Both of which are perennial strengths for Australia. 

Both of which have enduring ties to Canberra. 

As the daughter of an Army officer, I have a lifelong connection to our defence forces. 

Now, in my new role as Commander-in-Chief, I’m getting to know the ADF from a fresh perspective. 

Spending time with my friend Professor Tanya Monro, your first female Chief Defence Scientist; with the Chief of Defence and the Service Chiefs, and on the ground at HQJOC, sea and air bases, parade grounds and barracks across the country. 

Just yesterday I was at Jervis Bay for the NEOC graduation. A couple of weeks ago I was at RAAF Base Pearce in Western Australia. Remembrance Day at the War Memorial was, as always, profoundly moving. 

These experiences have reinforced my belief in the critical role of the ADF, and my respect for the people who serve and steward these remarkable institutions.   

Australia is intensely proud of our rich military history. 

We’re also proud of our modern, evolving defence force – one of the world’s most advanced. 

Thanks to the brilliant work of DSTG, Australia’s military remains right at the cutting edge of new technology and science, and in touch with international partners and peers. 

Thanks to you, our defence forces operate with incredible capability, thoroughly equipped for new and emerging challenges. 

As we look back on the past 50 years of this outstanding organisation, it’s clear that while our challenges have changed, our people remain our greatest asset.   

I know you all know that. 

I know that at the heart of your hyperintelligent, virtuosic science, is deep and thoughtful care: care for the safety and durability of our defence force, and for the peace and security of all Australians.  

Thank you for what you do, and congratulations again on a magnificent 50 years.