The Governments Administrative Arrangements Orders (AAOs) formally allocate executive responsibility among Ministers. Where applicable, Defence Ministers or authorised Defence personnel, may exercise decision-making powers under the Legislation as prescribed in the AAOs Part 4 - Department of Defence.

The Defence Ministerial portfolio contains the following positions:

  • Minister for Defence
  • Minister for Defence Industry
  • Minister for Defence Personnel
  • Minister for Veteran's Affairs

There is also a Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and Northern Australia, a non-Ministerial appointment assisting with priority deliverables.

For details about current and previous Defence Ministers and their media releases and statements visit the Defence Ministers website.