By Alisha Welch

THE Defence Executive Assistant Network (DEAN) was launched in Canberra on October 29, with more than 150 EAs attending.

The DEAN was initiated by the Secretary's EA, Esther Ray, and a small team of senior EAs who wanted to build a professional national network of EAs focused on information sharing, career development and inclusivity.

"The launch went really well," Esther said.

"The Network's aim is to raise the profile of EAs in Defence as professionals and experts in their field. By creating the Network, we hope to retain quality EAs and new starters who feel fully supported and part of a team, while providing more cost-effective and relevant training."

Another key part of the DEAN is the development of a structured training program specifically designed to progress EAs through APS levels.

"By standardising training across all levels, EAs will become more 'portable' between the Groups and Services, which will open up more opportunities for progression and development," Esther said.

"Future goals include raising the perception of EAs as a community in the eyes of the Senior Executive Service and our peers as a professional, intelligent and well presented group, and to educate senior leaders so they fully and effectively use their assistants.

"We will also run an EA course early next year for new and existing staff. Video conferencing will be set up with interstate EAs to better include them in meetings and courses."

Esther thanked Jane Righton-Stapley, Enid Tomes, Sharon Sparks, Melissa Wood, Marissa George, Michael Demasi and Alex Carter for their efforts in getting the DEAN up and running.

For more information visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/oscdfweb/sites/DEAN/ComWeb.asp?page=50920.