Media Release

CHIEF OF THE DEFENCE FORCE STATEMENT

“I am very concerned that there have been media reports today about discussions between myself and the Prime Minister yesterday,” the Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral Chris Barrie said.

“Some of these reports are untrue because they imply a knowledge of those discussions. I have not spoken to any other person about those discussions and do not intend to do so.

“As far as the Australian Defence Force is concerned, it is our duty to serve the Government of the day, and our duly elected representatives, and continue to perform our duties in the highly professional way that the Australian community expects.

“Our Defence Force has not and will not engage in the political process in any of the ways that have been suggested,” Admiral Barrie said.

“Furthermore, I will not talk to the media about political matters.”

Issued by the Defence Public Affairs Organisation, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT, 2600

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