ED: As we navigate the journey into our senior years, ensuring that we have the right support systems in place is crucial. Our voices, as veterans and carers, carry unique perspectives that can shape the future of aged care.
I encourage all veterans and their carers to take a few moments to complete this important aged care survey. Your insights and experiences are invaluable in highlighting the needs and preferences of our community.
Let’s make sure that the services we’ll depend on in the future reflect the dignity, respect, and support that we deserve.
Together, we can help build a better future for ourselves and those who come after us.

DVA Survey

Veterans and their families are encouraged to complete a short survey to share their experiences accessing aged care services and supports, and provide suggestions for further improvement.

Navigating aged care services can be challenging and confusing for veterans and their families. The survey aims to better understand the needs of aging veterans and help to tailor and improve our service offerings.

DVA offers a range of care services that can help you stay in your home or support your return home after a hospital stay. These services also help your carer, or can guide your move into residential aged care.

The survey can be completed on the DVA website. It should only take around 10 minutes to complete, depending on your answers.

Participation in this survey is entirely voluntary, and responses will be anonymous.

To participate in the survey, visit www.dva.gov.au/aac-survey

Defence Today

“Adding new features to existing capabilities will be like upgrading software in your smartphone. This will reduce cost to the Commonwealth and help to keep our systems up to date,” said Commodore Mann, emphasising the Navy’s forward-looking strategy for fleet development and integration.

The delivery of the final Hobart Class destroyer, NUSHIP Sydney, marked a significant milestone in Navy’s journey toward creating a Fifth-Generation integrated maritime force. Yet, this achievement is not just about advanced platforms; it reflects a broader commitment to innovation and the retention of highly skilled personnel essential to operating and evolving these capabilities.

Commodore Mann highlighted the ongoing evolution of the Hobart Class as a precursor to future programs like the Hunter Class frigates. By integrating cutting-edge combat management systems across various platforms including the Arafura Class Offshore Patrol Vessels, Supply Class ships, and Canberra Class amphibious vessels, Navy is fostering seamless communication and interoperability.

This strategy extends beyond hardware. The integrated maritime force will combine multiple sensors, platforms, and weapons systems into a cohesive network, enhancing situational awareness and combat effectiveness. Importantly, this approach aligns with the Air Force’s Fifth-Generation aspirations, leveraging shared data and aligned sensor and weapon procurements to extend joint surveillance and strike capabilities.

While technological advancements are critical, the Navy recognises that its people are the cornerstone of capability. Maintaining a well-trained, motivated, and resilient workforce has become a top priority for senior leadership.

Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Michael Noonan has driven this focus through Plan Mercator 2036, a strategic framework to guide the transition to the Future Navy. Central to this vision are Navy’s core values, honour, honesty, courage, integrity, and loyalty, anchoring the service’s identity in principles that resonate with new recruits and experienced sailors alike.

Efforts to modernise the fleet are matched by initiatives to retain and grow the workforce. Programs supporting personal and professional development, improved work-life balance, and flexible career paths are designed to meet the expectations of today’s sailors while maintaining operational effectiveness.

The Navy’s integrated force concept isn’t limited to ships and submarines. Platforms like the P-8A Poseidon, MQ-4C Triton, and future unmanned aerial vehicles will complement the Romeo combat helicopters and space-based systems, creating a truly joint force. These capabilities, when connected via tactical data links, will deliver unparalleled surveillance and strike potential, ensuring Australia remains ready to face future threats.

Recognising the challenges of retaining skilled personnel, Navy has prioritised efforts to foster a sense of belonging and purpose within its ranks. Initiatives such as mentoring, leadership training, and streamlined pathways for career progression have already begun to yield results.

As Commodore Phil Spedding (Retd) noted, “Cultural change is required to prioritise integrated force outcomes.” This cultural evolution is just as important as technological advances in achieving Navy’s long-term goals.

With the Hobart Class as a model of innovation and adaptability, and the Hunter Class on the horizon, Navy is not just building ships, it is building a future. A future where cutting-edge technology, integrated operations, and a dedicated workforce come together to ensure Australia’s maritime security for decades to come.

The Krakow Post

In a significant escalation of its counteroffensive, Ukraine deployed British-provided Storm Shadow missiles for the first time to strike Russian military sites, including a location linked to President Vladimir Putin. The attack targeted areas in Russia’s Kursk region, with reports suggesting the focus may have been a command post associated with Russian and North Korean military leadership.

The strike occurred near the Baryatinsky estate, a resort managed by the Russian President’s Affairs Administration. Unverified reports suggest the attack may have targeted a military communications hub or command facility within the estate’s eastern sector. The site is believed to play a role in coordinating Russian military operations.

The UK supplied Ukraine with long-range Storm Shadow missiles in 2023, which have been adapted for use with Ukrainian Su-24M aircraft. Initially, Ukraine was restricted from using these missiles to strike targets within Russia. However, recent policy shifts by the UK, France, and the United States have granted Ukraine permission to deploy them deeper into Russian territory.

The strike in Kursk signals a new phase in Ukraine’s military campaign, showcasing its ability to hit strategic targets well inside Russia. By employing advanced Western weapons like the Storm Shadow, Ukraine appears to be broadening the scope and intensity of its operations, potentially disrupting Russian military command and control structures.

This attack carries significant ramifications for the ongoing conflict. It underscores Ukraine’s growing capabilities and willingness to strike far beyond its borders, which could compel Russia to enhance its air defence systems and bolster security around key sites. The use of sophisticated Western weaponry highlights the deepening international support for Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts.

The UK has remained tight-lipped about the operation, with Downing Street, the Ministry of Defence, and the Foreign Office declining to comment, citing operational reasons.

Amid the heightened tensions, the US embassy in Kyiv temporarily closed due to potential Russian air attacks. The embassy suspended operations on Wednesday as a precaution but reopened on Thursday. Several other embassies, including those of Italy, Spain, and Greece, also closed temporarily.

This latest strike demonstrates Ukraine’s resolve and capacity to take the fight deep into Russian territory. As Western-supplied weapons become more integral to Ukraine’s strategy, the conflict’s dynamics may shift further, with both sides recalibrating their approaches in response to the evolving battlefield.

ED: Worth Watching

Watch the inimitable Professor Ian Plimer launch the Institute of Public Affairs’ Climate Change: The Facts 2025. Climate policy remains the single biggest policy obsession of Western governments and institutions such as the United Nations, NGOs and universities. It impacts trade flows, the geopolitical balance, economic growth, and public opinion in the West. Climate Change: The Facts 2025 is the fifth edition of a series of books that has spanned 15 years. It is a truly scientific work and was edited by Dr Jennifer Marohasy and Dr John Abbot. The research contained within, from highly credentialed contributors, provides a more complete answer and awareness to how natural variation influences the view of the anthropogenic global warming hypothesis.

Breaking Defence

SYDNEY — The AUKUS nuclear submarine program risks consuming funds needed for other critical defence priorities unless Australia’s defence budget is significantly increased, warned Sir Angus Houston, former head of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Speaking at the US Studies Centre, Houston emphasized that the escalating global security threats necessitate a boost in defence spending to at least 3% of GDP. He underscored that without this increase, the high costs of the AUKUS program — Australia’s collaboration with the US and UK to acquire nuclear-powered attack submarines — could erode other essential military capabilities.

Houston, who co-led the 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR), noted that the review’s projections, while ambitious, did not fully anticipate the rapidly evolving geopolitical challenges. These include the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, heightened tensions in the Middle East, China’s growing military assertiveness, and the strengthening alliance between China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran.

“When the strategy was published, I described Australia’s strategic circumstances as the most perilous since World War II. The situation has only intensified since then,” Houston stated.

Houston argued that to avoid compromising Australia’s broader defence readiness, the AUKUS submarines must represent a net addition to the country’s military capability. Achieving this, he insisted, is only possible with increased defence funding.

“The only way these submarines can be a net addition to Australian military capability is by increasing our defence spending to 3% or more of GDP as we move into and through the 2030s,” Houston said. “If not, the subs will come at the expense of other vital programs.”

Houston criticized the political establishment for failing to fully grasp the fiscal challenge posed by AUKUS. He warned that without bipartisan acknowledgment of the need for increased spending, Australia risks undermining its overall defence strategy.

The AUKUS program is set to become the most expensive defence endeavour in Australian history. Although officials have expressed confidence in the country’s ability to balance priorities, cracks are starting to show.

For example, earlier this month, Australia cancelled a $5.3 billion AUD satellite contract with Lockheed Martin. Analysts suggest this could be a precursor to further budget cuts as the true costs of the AUKUS program come to light.

Meanwhile, other defence leaders, like Richard Vagg, head of Land Capability for the ADF, have remained optimistic. Vagg recently told Breaking Defence that the ADF is “comfortable” with its investment plans, despite AUKUS concerns.

At the same event, US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell emphasized the importance of close cooperation between the US, Australia, and New Zealand to counter China’s growing influence. He urged the next US administration to prioritize strong regional partnerships.

As Australia grapples with the financial demands of AUKUS, Houston’s warning underscores the delicate balance required to bolster national security without sacrificing the broader needs of the defence force.

Without a clear path to increased funding, the challenge of maintaining a robust, balanced military may prove insurmountable.

Australian Army and Indonesian Armed Forces soldiers disembark an LLC during an amphibious assault serial on Exercise Keris Woomera at Banongan Beach, Indonesia. ADF Photo

Australia and Indonesia have achieved a significant milestone in their defence collaboration, executing the largest joint amphibious assault ever conducted between the two nations. This high-profile operation took place last week as part of Exercise Keris Woomera 2024, showcasing a powerful display of military coordination and operational capability.

Under the protection of Australian Army Tiger attack helicopters and Indonesian Air Force F-16 fighter jets, a formidable combined force of troops, tanks, and military vehicles stormed Banongan Beach, East Java. The landing marked the climax of the month-long exercise, which began with the departure of HMAS Adelaide (L01) from Darwin. The Canberra-class landing helicopter dock, serving as the primary amphibious platform, played a central role in ferrying forces to the shore.

The exercise involved over 2,000 personnel conducting drills in both Australian and Indonesian waters. Indonesian Marines were embedded with their Australian counterparts from the outset, training together aboard Adelaide. This included a joint landing in Queensland before the concluding operation in East Java. HMAS Stuart (FFH 113), an Anzac-class frigate, joined Adelaide in the exercise, contributing to live-fire drills and maritime security operations.

Aside from the large-scale amphibious landing, the exercise incorporated a range of scenarios, including a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) evacuation. These diverse activities highlighted the adaptability and interoperability of the two nations’ armed forces.

Keris Woomera is a cornerstone of Indo-Pacific Engagement 2024, Australia’s annual series of defence and security activities designed to strengthen partnerships across the region. This year’s engagements span from August to December and include participation from Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Maldives, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.

The joint assault on Banongan Beach follows the 2023 amphibious landing conducted during Exercise Alon in the Philippines, underscoring Australia’s growing focus on regional amphibious capabilities.

The increasing complexity and scale of joint exercises reflect the deepening ties between Canberra and Jakarta. The recent Australia-Indonesia Defence Cooperation Agreement underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance military-to-military engagements and explore new avenues for collaboration.

Fauzan Malufti, an Indonesian defence analyst, emphasized the significance of Keris Woomera. “This exercise highlights the substantial and rapid increase in defence engagements between the two countries,” Malufti noted. However, he also pointed out untapped opportunities in defence industry cooperation, such as joint procurement, technology transfer, and development initiatives.

Keris Woomera 2024 serves as a testament to the shared commitment of Australia and Indonesia to regional stability and mutual security. As both nations continue to expand their defence collaboration, their partnership stands as a model for cooperative security in the Indo-Pacific.

Defence Today

The Simpson Trophy, the oldest shooting competition in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the oldest globally, marked its 134th year with an event held in October at the Murray Bridge Training Area in South Australia. This historic occasion brought together soldiers, sailors, and artillery personnel to compete in a tradition steeped in history and camaraderie.

Organized by the 10th/27th Battalion, the Royal South Australia Regiment (10/27RSAR), the competition saw participation from across the 9th Brigade, Adelaide Universities Regiment, 6th/13th Light Battery, Royal Australian Artillery, and sailors from HMAS Encounter. The event continues to highlight the enduring importance of marksmanship in Australia’s defence capabilities.

A Proud Heritage

Lieutenant Colonel Aaron Jackson, Commanding Officer of 10/27RSAR, expressed immense pride in his unit’s role in upholding this historic event.

“Standards were very high, and the competition fiercely contested,” he said. “The first competition, held in 1890, was sponsored by The Honourable Alfred Muller Simpson MLC to strengthen South Australia’s colonial defences.

“More than a century later, the Simpson family remains involved, generously donating the prizes each year. This competition not only showcases exceptional marksmanship but also reflects the enduring connection between the military and the South Australian community.”

Lieutenant Colonel Jackson emphasized the dual significance of the event, blending skill and tradition. “Each competitor demonstrated a commitment to maintaining and executing critical combat capabilities while honouring the spirit of this competition in its 134th year,” he added.

Honours and Achievements

The 10/27RSAR team claimed the coveted title of overall team champions, reaffirming their reputation for excellence. Among individual competitors, Trooper Matthew Beelitz, from the 3rd/9th Light Horse (South Australian Mounted Rifles), 1st Armoured Regiment, earned the award for best individual shot, a prestigious recognition of his outstanding marksmanship.

Private Kain McKenzie, a member of the winning 10/27RSAR team, reflected on the significance of participating in such an iconic event.

“It’s an honour and privilege. Knowing this competition dates back to 1890 makes it even more meaningful. Not many people can say they’ve been part of something so historic,” he said.

Private McKenzie acknowledged the intensity of the competition. “Everyone was competing at a high standard, which put pressure on us as an infantry team to deliver. Regular training has been key, and it’s rewarding to see that dedication translate into success,” he said.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Simpson Trophy stands as a remarkable tradition, uniting generations of service personnel in a celebration of skill, history, and community. Its continued success, with the involvement of the Simpson family and the dedication of participating units, highlights the enduring value of marksmanship as a cornerstone of military capability.

As it continues into its 135th year, the Simpson Trophy remains a shining example of how history and tradition can inspire modern excellence, bridging past and present in the service of national defence.

The Krakow Post

Moscow has disclosed that President Vladimir Putin is willing to engage in discussions with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump regarding a potential ceasefire agreement in Ukraine and the conditions necessary to bring an end to the protracted and bloody conflict. According to five sources cited by Reuters, the Russian leader is reportedly open to dialogue with Trump but has drawn firm red lines, including rejecting any significant territorial concessions and demanding that Kyiv abandon its aspirations to join NATO.

This marks the first detailed account of what Putin might consider acceptable terms in a deal brokered by the incoming U.S. administration. The unnamed current and former Russian officials indicated that the Kremlin could agree to freeze the conflict along the existing front lines, effectively cementing the status quo on the ground. Such an arrangement would fall short of a full peace treaty but could halt active hostilities while entrenching Russian control over occupied territories in eastern Ukraine.

These revelations highlight the delicate nature of any potential negotiations, as they would involve addressing fundamental disagreements between Moscow, Kyiv, and Western allies. Ukraine’s leadership has consistently emphasized its sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejecting any compromises that would legitimize Russian territorial gains. Meanwhile, NATO has reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s right to choose its alliances, a stance that clashes directly with Russia’s insistence on a neutral Ukraine.

Putin’s apparent willingness to engage with Trump could signal a strategic calculation to explore a diplomatic off-ramp amid mounting international pressure and the costly toll of the conflict. However, any proposed ceasefire deal would likely face intense scrutiny and resistance from Kyiv and its Western backers, particularly if it is perceived as rewarding Russian aggression or undermining Ukraine’s long-term security.