CDF, ADML Chris Barrie with his successor GEN Peter Cosgrove.

Today I hand over command of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to General Cosgrove, thus completing 41 years of service in the RAN, and four years as Chief of the Defence Force (CDF).

Throughout my term as CDF I have been reminded constantly of the professionalism and dedication of all those who serve our country in uniform. Our sailors, soldiers and airmen and women are counted as the world's best and no opportunity to demonstrate this fact has been passed over. I am very proud of your achievements - you have all done well.

As the CDF I have felt very well supported by my Service Chiefs and the Vice Chiefs. In turn we have been supported by a strong team of leaders in our Public Service, and in our Reserves. I want to pass on my special appreciation for all the support I have personally received from you, too.

In the last few weeks, I have met many people in various units, both overseas on active service, and at home. The ADF is in great shape - well supported by the Government, and our community. I would like you all to take time to celebrate your achievements, and reflect on the contribution you will make in the future.

Well done.

Chris Barrie
Admiral RAN
Chief of the Defence Force


CDF Order of the Day, July 4

To the men and women of the Australian Defence Force. On my first day in office as Chief, I send you my warmest greetings.

Wherever you are on operations, at sea, in the field or in the air, in ships, barracks and bases around Australia, you continue to perform a vital role in protecting and promoting Australia's security. From the newest sailor, soldier and airman and woman, to the most senior you are part of three most honourable and respected institutions, proud of their uniqueness, united in their service of the nation.

Not in over 50 years has the Australian Defence Force been under such diverse and sustained operational demands. Thousands of our colleagues stand watch overseas, working with allies, winning admiration, doing the job for which they joined. Similarly here at home, in training establishments, front line and support bases, in garrisons and depots large and small and in headquarters and office buildings dotted all around the country, our people get on with the job supporting those deployed and frequently getting ready to go themselves.

In our endeavours to serve the Australian people, we are joined by the marvellous efforts by thousands of dedicated and skilled men and women of the Australian Public Service who make with us the Defence team. We in uniform are most thankful for their quiet and ceaseless support. Without them behind and often alongside us, we cannot succeed.

As your new commander, I am very conscious of the impact of your service on your loved ones. I am always moved by their selflessness and cheerfulness. We in uniform are lucky indeed. We must do what we can to uplift them and ease their burden.

On your behalf, I salute and warmly congratulate my predecessor for his wise, tireless and effective leadership of the ADF during times of exceptional challenge. I inherit the leadership of a world class fighting force and I thank him most sincerely for his great stewardship.

Finally, there is no doubt that the operational challenges to the ADF will continue at a high tempo - this at a time when we are deeply involved in modernising the three services for our successors. We can and must succeed at these tasks. Australia has no doubt that we will.

I am privileged to be your new Chief at this time.

P.J. Cosgrove, AC, MC
General
Chief of the Defence Force