DEFENCE Support and Reform Group was formed on October 22 with the amalgamation of Defence Support Group, Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication Division, and the Strategic Reform Management Office.

The Group is headed by the acting Deputy Secretary, Steve Grzeskowiak.

In an email to all staff, Steve said the Group was the second largest non-Service Group in Defence, with more than 4000 people undertaking a wide range of functions.

"We have an important role in supporting the ADF and other Defence Groups in meeting their capability and corporate objectives," Steve said.

With a budget of about $3.9 billion, the Group maintains environmental stewardship of over 3 million hectares of land with more than 700 leased or owned properties, containing more than 25,000 built assets. It also provides on-the-ground services and support to Defence personnel throughout Australia via the management of Defence bases, and is responsible for the efficient delivery of a range of shared services to Defence, including payroll and travel.

With the addition of Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication Division, and the Strategic Reform Management Office, the Group also oversees Defence's reform agenda and provides ministerial, communication and coordination services.