Defence Strategic Review Insights

Advance Cairns and James Cook University jointly hosted a Business Lunch to investigate the implications of the Federal Government’s 2023 Defence Strategic Review for Far North Queensland with one of the review’s co-authors.

Fantastic opportunity to do a deep dive with Defence Strategic Review Co-author Peter J. Dean into the announcement by Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles of the increase of $50 billion in defence spending.

The potential for Cairns and the Far North is evident, given our geographical advantage and robust maritime sustainment capabilities. Prof Dean also shed light on the planned upgradesfor RAAF Base Scherger and forthcoming investments in critical infrastructure such as road networks and fuel supply.

Moreover, the strengthened ties with Japan present further avenues for closer collaboration.

This event offered our members an exceptional chance to gain strategic insights from one of the foremost architects of defence strategy.

Guest speaker: Professor Peter J. Dean PhD SFHEA is the Director, Foreign Policy and Defence at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney.

Panellists: Commander Alfonso Santos, Commanding Officer HMAS Cairns and Olav Groot, CEO Norship, & Founding Director of Norsta

Event Date: 18 April 2024