STATEMENTS BY SENATORS

Senator BLYTH (South Australia) (13:43): This week has seen the ADF parliamentary exchange program host 52 ADF personnel of all services, ranks and backgrounds in the halls of this building. It has been an opportunity for us to work together, in much the same way as I was fortunate to take part in the RIMPAC exercise earlier this year, where I spent some time onboard the HMAS Sydney.

The interactions we have had through this exchange further reinforce our understanding of the ADF not only as the protectors of Australian sovereignty but also as a key part of Australian society. Whether it is the presence of bases across the country, the provision of support during natural disasters or responding to other national emergencies, the ADF is an essential part of our community when we bring team Australia together.

As we face uncertainty in the international arena, it is time to see what is represented in the ADF further replicated in our broader society. That's things like teamwork, mateship, a sense of belonging and—relevantly—from this place, strong leadership. A team Australia mentality recognises the contribution of everyone.

If we have learnt anything from the global instability that has shaped the last decade, it's that a strong team Australia is needed to weather any potential incoming storms. All Australians have a role to play and should be proud to contribute to a team Australia. We stand in a privileged position to bring all of the contributors to Australian society together in the same way the ADF replicates the social fabric of Australia—teamwork, mateship and a sense of belonging.

We must shape Australia's future with leadership from this place, enhancing our national resilience and our ability to withstand any challenge. Thank you very much for joining me this week, Captain Michael Paes of the Royal Australian Navy— (Time expired)