From SF strength to CT strength

Maj-Gen Duncan Lewis is already media savvy as a result of his distinguished military career. Photo provided by NIU-E

MAJ-Gen Duncan Lewis will extend his counter-terrorism role when he takes up a position with Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C) next month.

The appointment of First Assistant Secretary, National Security Division will be the next step in a notable career.

Currently Commander SOCOMD, Maj-Gen Lewis has undertaken a variety of roles during his career including Commander of the Western Sector of the UNTAET and Military Attache at the Australian Embassy in Jakarta. He has also studied at the British Army Staff College, the US Army War College and ADF School of Languages.

CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy speaks highly of Maj-Gen Lewis’ military career.

“Maj-Gen Lewis has led Australian Special Forces over periods of high operational tempo and has been key to their high-level of professionalism, which is respected and admired,” he said.

He will retire from the ARA to take up the position with PM&C.

CDF Gen Peter Cosgrove thanked and congratulated Maj-Gen Lewis for his distinguished service to the ADF and the significant contribution he would now be making on wider national security issues.

Deputy Commander SOCOMD Brig Mike Hindmarsh will take over as Commander SOCOMD.

As CO SASR Brig Hindmarsh commanded the Anzac Special Operations Force detachment in Kuwait, in 1998, and the SF Task Group on Op Falconer in the Middle East.

Brig Hindmarsh will be promoted into his new appointment.

Lt-Gen Leahy said that as the Deputy Special Operations Commander – Australia, Brig Hindmarsh had been involved in the raising of SOCOMD and had proven himself as a commander at all levels in special forces.