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Clear Direction: Minister for Defence Robert Hill addresses the Senior Leadership Summit, held at the Australian Defence College on February 4. Photo by Phil Vavasour, DPS-AV

Minister for Defence Robert Hill has praised the ADF's performance during the past 12 months during his keynote address at the Senior Leadership Group (SLG) summit on February 4.

The Senior Leadership Summit provides an important forum for the Secretary of Defence, Ric Smith, and CDF General Peter Cosgrove to discuss strategic issues facing Defence with their senior leaders.

Two hundred and thirty five SES leaders, both civilian and military attended a dinner on February 3, followed by a full program on February 4, at the Australian Defence College, Canberra.

In his speech, Senator Hill acknowledged Defence faced a complex and uncertain operational environment, but said he was confident that the department was well placed to adapt and meet any new commitments.

The Minister also highlighted the need for continuing improvements in Defence's administrative performance.

He said Defence had to accept that it operated in an environment of transparency that would become increasingly demanding. Improved project management performance, along with industry training and development initiatives, would be vital in making progress on some legacy projects.

In addition to Senator Hill's speech, presentations throughout the day focused on each element of Defence Priorities 2005.

Mr Smith introduced discussions on management excellence and Defence's policy context.

His key themes were accurate advice to Government and a disciplined and accountable approach to issues management.

CDF General Peter Cosgrove provided an overview of the ADF's operational commitments.

He also addressed off-battlefield management issues, saying he would accept no excuse for a lack of attention on "getting it right" with respect to financial management, asset and inventory management or leave records.

Having recently confirmed that he will retire in July, this year's meeting had special significance for General Cosgrove as his final leadership summit.

In reflecting on 40 years with Defence, the CDF said he was proud of the men and the women of the ADF and Defence.

"It's clear to me that the Government - and the Australian people - understand that we will never let them down," he said.

The summit will be followed by the SLG Recall Day, planned for early August.

- Harry Baxter

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