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AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE PARLIAMENTARY PROGRAM 2017
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE
PARLIAMENTARY PROGRAM2017
Message from the Minister for Defence Personnel
It gives me great pleasure to present the Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program for 2017.
This initiative was first introduced in 2001 and for the past fifteen years has provided more than 350 Members of Parliament with a unique insight into the day-to-day workings of the ADF, both at home and abroad.
Participation in the ADF Parliamentary Program is an opportunity to engage closely with members of the ADF and experience the challenges and rewards of Service life. The Program also provides an opportunity to see the diverse capabilities of our Defence Force in action.
Many Members and Senators have completed multiple Program attachments, returning each year to participate and explore the different areas of Defence. This is a true testament to this exceptional program and I encourage you to read some of their testimonies in the pages to follow.
I encourage all members to seriously consider participating in the Program – there are options to cater for every interest, ranging from training establishments, to major exercises and operational deployments overseas.
The Exchange element is also a key part of the Program, where approximately 15 ADF personnel are hosted by a parliamentarian during a sitting week. This program exposes ADF personnel to the work of both houses of parliament and provides a unique insight into the daily activities of a parliamentarian. As co-sponsor of the Program, I am very grateful to the Members and Senators who give up their time and energy to sponsor ADF participants on this valuable program.
I commend to you the Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program for 2017, and I invite and encourage all Members and Senators to participate in the wide-ranging activities that are on offer.
The Hon Dan Tehan, MPMinister for Defence Personnel
Welcome to the ADF Parliamentary ProgramWelcome to the 2017 Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program (ADFPP). It is an honour to be presenting this program again in conjunction with my co-sponsor the Honourable Dan Tehan, our Minister for Defence Personnel.
As noted by the Minister, the growing number of repeat participants over successive years highlights the popularity of this program amongst parliamentarians. Through the testimonies I’ve personally received from past participants and the positive feedback provided by the ADF personnel who help deliver the ADFPP, I’m confident that we have the right formula for an exciting and successful 2017 Program.
This year the program is offering 18 options which showcase the depth and complexity of the work we undertake in the ADF. Navy is looking for those interested in going to sea with the Navy’s mine warfare experts on HMAS Gascoyne or HMAS Diamantina out of Sydney Harbour; from Army there is the opportunity to participate in Exercise Sea Explorer focusing on the integrated Amphibious Ready Group in the Cowley Beach training area; and an option from Air Force will allow participants to experience first hand the capabilities of the F/A-18A/B Super Hornets, the C-17A Globemaster III and the KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport at RAAF Base Amberley. And for those of you who just can’t get enough of Canberra, there is also an opportunity to experience Army officer training at the Royal Military College Duntroon!
On the operational front, the program is again offering the opportunity to observe the ongoing activities in the Middle East Region. ADFPP participants will also have a chance to experience Exercise TALISMAN SABRE, the latest in the biennial series of exercises conducted by Australia and the United States in the Shoalwater Bay training area, North Queensland.
This diverse and flexible program means there is something for everyone and ADFPP staff are available to answer any of your queries.
On behalf of the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, the Service Chiefs and the wider Defence community, I would like to extend a warm invitation to all parliamentarians interested in the 2017 ADFPP and encourage you to participate and support this unique and innovative program.
Vice Admiral Ray Griggs AO, CSC, RAN Vice Chief of the Defence Force
As I watched the sun set through the window of the Bush Master while we weaved our way through peak hour traffic in Kabul, I knew it was one of those moments that would stay with me for life. In fact, that was one of many ‘pinch yourself’ moments I experienced when I had the privilege of participating in the ADFPP’s Middle East Region option in October 2016.
The program kicked off with training at Al Minhad Air Base, which provided great insight into the briefings and training delivered to our men and women who have been deployed to the Middle East Region.
One aspect of the training, the Care of the Battle Casualty first aid training, stood out in particular. Everyone was taught how to apply a tourniquet to themselves and to others, as well as other lifesaving first aid techniques. Our training culminated in exercises which saw us divided into groups to handle a multiple casualty scenario. We were required to find the casualties, assess their injuries, move them to a designated casualty collection point, apply first aid and perform a handover to medical staff. The hands-on nature of the training was terrific.
During the program we were fortunate enough to visit the Afghan National Army Officers Academy (ANAOA), where Australian and coalition forces mentor Afghan instructors who deliver training to local cadets. On the day of our visit over 300 cadets were practicing their marching in preparation for their graduation a few days later. Through interpreters we were able to speak to the cadets about their motivations for joining ANAOA and what they wanted to do after they graduated. Everyone we spoke to said they wanted to be part of the infantry or artillery and posted to where the fighting is the heaviest. I was left with no doubt that Australia’s presence at ANAOA is making a real and positive difference in the Afghan National Army’s capabilities.
Senator Skye Kakoschke-MooreSenator for South Australia
Above all, the interaction we had with ADF personnel in the Middle East Region was the highlight of the program for me. The sense of pride and purpose of the men and women we spoke with about their work couldn’t have been clearer.
I was also grateful to share a behind-the-scenes look of the Senate when I acted as a host for the ADFPP. The workings of the Senate can be a bit of a mystery (even to those of us who work here!) so it was fantastic to be given the opportunity to show a member of the ADF what a typical week in Parliament House is like. I strongly encourage all Senators and Members to join the ADFPP, not only as a participant but as a host. The insights that you can gain and share are invaluable.
Thank you to everyone who worked on the program in 2016.
Sharon Claydon MPMember for Newcastle, NSWThe Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program is a fantastic program offering a unique opportunity to experience an authentic slice of the lives of defence personnel in the field.
In July 2016, the program took me to Pearl Harbour in Hawaii where I spent seven days as the only Australian parliamentarian to take part in the world’s largest maritime exercise – RIMPAC, or Rim of the Pacific.
This year’s RIMPAC saw some of the world’s greatest military strategists and personnel converge on the region to take part in exercises and enact scenarios with partners from 26 other nations. With them, they brought some of their most important defence assets including planes, ships, submarines, helicopters – and even a hovercraft.
I was rotated through various different parts of the exercise and placed with personnel of all ranks and roles – from the junior sailors to the Commanding Officer in the Ops Room. As parliamentarians, we are often steered towards speaking to the most senior staff in an organisation, so it was refreshing to interact directly with so many different personnel as they went about their specialised duties.
It’s impossible to capture the breadth and diversity of my experiences on the program, but living and working on the HMAS Warramunga and HMAS Canberra and spending time in the field with 2 Royal Australian Regiment from Townsville were among the highlights.
In the second part of the exchange program, I had the privilege of hosting an ADF member during a parliamentary sitting week. It was a great opportunity to introduce her to my world and organise meetings to advance her personal interest in security and intelligence issues.
The program was very worthwhile and gave me a much deeper understanding not only of the work of our defence personnel, but Australia’s role in the global defence networks and the significance of our international partnerships.
It was a great privilege to take part in the Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program.
The program gave me a far greater understanding of the ADF’s important work. One thing which particularly struck me about the visit was the great responsibility we place in the hands of our often very young defence personnel. It is impressive to see how incredibly professional these young Australians are. Undoubtedly I left the program with a heightened sense of pride to be an Australian.
Senator James PatersonSenator for Victoria
As a parliamentarian it is important to see first-hand the meaningful contribution the country is making to the fight against terror in Iraq and Afghanistan.
We were incredibly lucky to partake in the ADFPP and be in the Middle East region during a vital time in the campaign against ISIS. We flew over northern Syria and Mosul on an air-to-air refuelling flight for coalition strike aircraft as the Iraqi Security Forces were preparing to launch their offensive to retake the city. We observed an impressive joint British and Australian mentoring program at an elite officer training school for the Afghan army in Kabul. You cannot gain these experiences from a book.
Personally, I was amazingly lucky to be able to coincide with one of my best friends from university, who is currently serving our country with distinction, adding even more meaning to the trip.
After the ADFPP program I returned to Australia more sure than ever of the importance of our military contribution to the region, and the strong moral basis for our continued participation in the coalition to defeat ISIS. I would certainly recommend Members and Senators to partake in an ADFPP option before you leave this place.
General Information The following provides general information about the ADF Parliamentary Program and a summary of attachment options for 2017. Specific dates are nominated where applicable; however, requirements may necessitate some date changes as the year unfolds.
Applications and Selection Process
Application forms are only available in an electronic format on the ADF Parliamentary Program website at www.defence.gov.au/adfpp. Applications should indicate your first preference and, in the event of oversubscription, a second and third preference.
In the event of an option being oversubscribed, a ballot will apply to establish a rank order and reserve list, if necessary. Ballots will be drawn at close of business on 17 February 2017. Applications received after this date will be placed on a waiting list and prioritised in order of receipt.
All applications will be initially acknowledged on receipt. Subsequent to any balloting requirements, you will be advised of the success of your application and formally passed to the appropriate host Service Headquarters who will liaise directly with you regarding uniform issue and administrative detail.
Working Routine
The attachment options on offer are designed to ensure you gain the maximum impact from the experience. Features include the opportunities to work and live wherever possible alongside service men and women at all rank levels. The situations you find yourself may not offer five star comforts and there will be very little protocol. Nor is it an endurance test, so the prospect of arduous physical activity and conditions should not deter you from
joining the Program. Defence can and will tailor the conditions to suit your level of comfort so that you may get the most out of the experience. To that end, we ask that, wherever possible, you plan to complete the full attachment period offered.
Uniforms
You will be issued, wherever possible, with the same uniforms, protective clothing or equipment used by the personnel at your destination unit. You will also be issued a distinctive ‘rank’ insignia to identify you as a parliamentarian attached to the ADF Parliamentary Program.
Administrative Arrangements
You will be required to meet basic medical standards in order to participate in some of the activities on offer. In addition you should note that transport to and from the option start location will be at the participant’s expense. These administrative requirements will be further clarified prior to the commencement of each option.
Parliamentary Exchange
An integral part of the ADF Parliamentary Program is the exchange element where ADF personnel are attached to the office of a parliamentarian at Parliament House, Canberra, for a period of one week during a sitting week. Exchange personnel gain an insight into the parliamentary and committee processes and develop an understanding of the departments that operate within Parliament House. ADF members also gain an appreciation of the scope of the extensive and varied activities undertaken by Senators or Members of Parliament.
The exchange to Parliament House is tentatively planned to occur in the later half of 2017. Expressions of interest from parliamentarians willing to host this year will be sought closer to the activity.
Option 1 Navy Fleet Hydrography Dates flexible
Option 2 Navy Aviation and Officer Training Dates flexible
Option 3 Navy Mine Warfare 5 – 9 June
Option 4 Navy Fleet Base West Submarines 13 – 17 March
Option 5 Navy Sydney Harbour Naval Assets Dates flexible
Option 6 Army Royal Military College Duntroon 3 – 5 October 24 – 26 October
Option 7 Army Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program 22 – 26 August
Option 8 Army Exercise HAMEL 17 12 – 17 July
Option 9 Army Exercise SEA EXPLORER 26 – 30 April
Option 10 Army Combined Arms Training Centre 3 – 7 April
Option 11 Air Force RAAF Base Amberley Dates flexible
Option 12 Air Force RAAF Base East Sale Dates flexible
Option 13 Air Force RAAF Base Edinburgh Dates flexible
Option 14 Air Force RAAF Base Williamtown Dates flexible
Option 15 Joint Operations Operation RESOLUTE 3 – 7 April 3 – 7 July 2 – 6 October
Option 16 Joint Operations Middle East Region
Option 17 Combined Exercise Exercise TALISMAN SABER 17 9 – 16 July
Option 18 Joint Exercise Exercise NORTHERN SHIELD 17 Mid September (TBA)
AttachmentOptions
Option 1NAVY - Fleet HydrographyOUTLINE
HMAS Cairns is the home port of the Navy’s Hydrographic Fleet as well as six Armidale Class Patrol Boats, one Cape Class Patrol Boat and the Laser Airborne Depth Sounding (LADS) unit.
HMAS Cairns provides maintenance, logistic and administrative support for a number of Naval units, as well as refit and training associated with Pacific Class Patrol Boats for neighbouring Pacific Island nations.
A visit to HMAS Cairns will be combined with a sea-ride on one or more of these vessels.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
While attached to HMAS Cairns you will be introduced to the work of Navy’s technical sailors at the Fleet Support Unit, and have the opportunity to:
• Spend some time with the trainers and trainees at the Maritime Warfare training cell, and view the range of weapons at the Armoury.
• Participate in an early morning Physical Training session before meeting the sailors of the Fleet Support Unit.
• Meet the members of the Navy’s Defence Indigenous Development Program, taking part in some of their activities which are designed to assist Indigenous people reach the required standards to permanently enlist into the ADF.
• Gain an insight into the Laser Airborne Depth Sounding team and the products they generate by joining the team on an air sortie mapping a section of the Great Barrier Reef.
• Spend a few days at sea on either a patrol boat that may be transiting from Cairns to Darwin or on a shorter trip with the Hydrographic Survey Fleet.
Dates: This is a five to nine day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of participants: Flexible, depending on the Naval asset supporting the activity.
Location: Cairns, QLD.
Note: You will be required to meet medical standards prior to sea-riding in a patrol boat or survey Ship.
Option 2NAVY - Aviation and Officer TrainingOUTLINE
South of Sydney in the Shoalhaven area is Jervis Bay, where there has been a Navy presence for over a hundred years, starting with the establishment of a training school for young officers just before the First World War. That establishment morphed into HMAS Creswell which is where all Navy officers commence their careers. Creswell also provides support to operations within Jervis Bay and the Eastern Australian Exercise Area.
HMAS Albatross on the outskirts of Nowra has long been the centre of naval aviation in Australia. Today it is the home of the Fleet Air Arm which operate the Navy’s combat training helicopters. The base is also home to the Tactical Electronic Warfare Support Section, the Naval Weather and Oceanographic Centre, and the Joint Acoustic Analysis Centre. The Army’s Parachute Training School and the popular Fleet Air Arm Museum are also based at HMAS Albatross.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
At HMAS Albatross you will have the opportunity to:
• Participate in a helicopter flight and experience the work of the sailors and Fleet Air Arm staff of the aviation Squadrons.
• Fly one of the Navy’s ‘state-of-the-art’ helicopter flight simulators.
• Participate in Helicopter Underwater Escape Training.
• Watch the trainees at the Army Parachute Training School go through their paces, tour the airfield, and visit the air traffic control facilities meeting the air traffic controllers.
At HMAS Creswell you will have the opportunity to:
• Visit the Navy School of Survivability and Ship Safety, where trainees are instructed on fire fighting, how to stop leaks and floods and protect themselves against Nuclear, Biological and Chemical attack.
• Explore one of the Navy’s most historic bases and join the Midshipmen in some of their classes and activities.
Dates: This is a three day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of participants: No limit.
Location: Nowra, NSW.
Option 3NAVY - Mine WarfareOUTLINE
HMAS Waterhen is located at Waverton on Sydney Harbour and is the home of Navy’s Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving capabilities.
Based at HMAS Waterhen is HMAS Yarra one of the Navy’s Mine Hunters which use variable depth sonar to search, detect and neutralise mines. HMAS Yarra will be undertaking her ‘work up’ from mid-May to mid-June 2017. HMAS Gascoyne and HMAS Diamantina will be assisting as her consorts from 5 to 15 June. This represents an excellent opportunity for a sea-ride for up to five days to watch Yarra and her crew be put through their paces.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
Join HMAS Gascoyne or Diamantina alongside HMAS Waterhen for your induction and safety briefs before heading under the Harbour Bridge and out through the Heads “in company”. While onboard you will have the opportunity to:
• Watch the ship’s company go about their normal jobs. That may include preparing a meal for the crew, tending to the engines or special equipment onboard, plotting courses on charts, or preparing for their engagement with HMAS Yarra.
• Observe and participate in officer of the watch manoeuvres, man overboard drills, deployment of the specialised mine hunting equipment, and launching and recovery of the sea-boat.
• Watch the clearance divers and bridge team in action and see how junior seaman officers are trained on the job. At night, you will bunk down with the Officers and sailors onboard.
Dates: 5 – 9 June
Number of Participants: Limited to two.
Location: Sydney, NSW.
Note: You will be required to meet medical standards prior to sea-riding on a Mine Hunter.
OUTLINE
Fleet Base West is located just south of Perth at HMAS Stirling on Garden Island in Rockingham, Western Australia. It is home to half of the Navy fleet, including five Anzac Class Frigates, the Fleet Oiler HMAS Sirius and five Collins Class Submarines.
HMAS Stirling is also the base for the Clearance Diving Team 4, and the Training Authority – Submarines. This five day visit includes two full days at sea onboard a submarine.
Option 4NAVY - Fleet Base West Submarines
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
Your program will start with a tour of the Base to orientate you to the facilities. You will then have the opportunity to:
• Visit the Weapons Simulation Training facility and observe or take part in weapons training.
• Meet the Navy combat specialists of Clearance Diving Team 4, and participate in a training demonstration at the RAN School of Survivability and Ship Safety Management, which includes fire fighting, dealing with fast and slow floods, and defence against nuclear, biological and chemical attack.
• Embark on a Collins Class submarine for two to three days at sea and more importantly under the sea.
• Watch some of the most highly skilled personnel in the Navy go about their daily duties during a period when the Navy is conducting Anti-Submarine Exercises with other RAN vessels and United States Navy units in the Western Australian Exercise Area.
Dates: 13 – 17 March
Number of participants: Limited to four.
Location: Rockingham, WA.
Note: You will be required to meet medical standards prior to sea-riding in a Submarine.
OUTLINE
The Navy has a large presence in Sydney, including four commissioned establishments alongside or overlooking the Harbour and its reaches. The largest of these is the Garden Island Defence Precinct, incorporating HMAS Kuttabul and Fleet Base East, which will have multiple warships alongside, including Navy’s brand new ships HMAS Canberra and Adelaide.
HMAS Watson, located at Sydney’s South Head, is part of Fleet Command and is the Navy’s premier maritime warfare training establishment.
HMAS Penguin is situated at Middle Head in Sydney Harbour and is the home of the RAN Diving School, the RAN Hydrographic School and the RAN Medical School.
HMAS Waterhen is the Navy’s lead establishment for Mine Warfare and is home to some of the most advanced Mine Countermeasure equipment and technology.
Option 5NAVY - Sydney Harbour Naval Assets
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
• Spend the day at HMAS Watson, including a briefing on how Warfare training is conducted in the RAN. A significant amount of training for Warfare officers and sailors is undertaken using simulators, and HMAS Watson is home to a Fast Frigate Helicopter simulator for the Anzac Class Ships; a Fast Frigate Guided Missile simulator for the Adelaide Class ships and the Bridge Simulator.
• At Garden Island you will visit HMAS Kuttabul and receive a series of briefs from Fleet Command and Thales (the major Defence contractor on Garden Island).
• Visit one of the modern warships or support ships and spend time onboard with the ship’s company.
• Visit the home of Navy’s Mine Warfare Faculty at HMAS Waterhen, where most of Mine Warfare personnel undergo their specialist training. Tour a Mine Hunter Coastal as well as the Live Landing Craft from HMAS Adelaide and Canberra; and receive a briefing from the Australian Clearance Diving Team 1.
• Travel by boat across to HMAS Penguin where you will visit the RAN Medical School to see the simulation facilities and meet the Navy’s newest medics, take part in a tour and receive a brief on the training they undertake.
Dates: This is a three day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of Participants: No limit.
Location: Sydney, NSW.
OUTLINE
The charter of the Royal Military College – Duntroon (RMC-D) is to prepare cadets and other selected candidates for careers as officers in the Australian Army by promoting learning, leadership and integrity; by inspiring high ideals and the pursuit of excellence; and by inculcating a sense of duty, loyalty and service to Australia.
Training at RMC-D is a rewarding challenge for Australians willing to serve their country and begin their careers in the profession of arms. Training is conducted over 18 months in three distinct stages. Training commences with basic training in Third Class and progressively advances in difficulty through Second Class into First Class.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
You will be immersed in the broad range of activities experienced in Third Class as part of Initial Cadet Training at Majura Training Area. After an initial briefing, you will have the opportunity to:
• Observe and participate in a drill lesson, weapons training, field craft and a variety of other theoretical and practical lessons.
• Handle assault rifles and light machine guns of the Australian soldier and participate in live fire weapon practices.
• Learn basic military communications skills, including operating service radios.
Option 6ARMY - Royal Military College Duntroon
• Be put through your paces with Army Physical Training Instructors by participating in an entry level fitness training activity.
• Experience the life of a soldier in the field, learning basic field craft skills, navigation, weapon handling, carriage of equipment and movement in the field environment.
Proposed Dates: 3 – 5 October 24 – 26 October
Number of participants: Limited to five.
Location: Canberra, ACT.
OUTLINE
The Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program (AACAP) is a collaborative partnership between the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Australian Army. AACAP aims to address community safety by improving environmental health and living conditions in remote indigenous communities.
One project is undertaken each calendar year, targeting improvements in housing and essential services such as water, power, sewerage and health. AACAP achieves this through the delivery of infrastructure, vocational skills training and complementary health care services.
In 2017, AACAP will be held at the Toomelah community 370km south-west of Brisbane. This will be the first time AACAP has taken place in New South Wales.
Option 7ARMY - Aboriginal Community Assistance Program
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
Experience life as a member of an Engineer Construction Squadron in the Australian Army and gain an understanding of the conditions experienced in remote aboriginal communities. On arrival, after an initial briefing, you will be immersed in a broad range of activities and have the opportunity to:
• Join in a simulated casualty drill to test the medical staff and camp procedures; and observe the medical and dental programs run by Army within the Toomelah community.
• Spend time with Army tradesmen and plant operators during dinner prepared by Army cooks in a field kitchen and discuss current issues and construction work progress.
• Visit the construction site and view the progress of vertical and horizontal construction tasks within the Toomelah community. Speak to Army personnel about the production of potable water for the camp.
• Observe the conduct of the training program, instructing community members in a range of practical workshop skills and IT based training.
Proposed Dates: 22 – 26 August
Number of participants: Limited to five.
Location: Tomoolah, NSW (370km south-west of Brisbane).
Option 8ARMY – Exercise HAMEL 17
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
You will be hosted by exercise planning and operations staff from Army’s Headquarters Forces Command. As part of Exercise HAMEL, you will have the opportunity to:
• View a maritime Combined Force Entry Operation in the vicinity of Stanage Bay.
• View elements of US Army Alaska as they conduct parachuting operations, including the air drop of both soldiers and materiel into Drop Zone Kapyong in Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
• View and participate in the coordinated firing of live ammunition and explosive ordnance from small arms and artillery.
• Undertake a helicopter tour of a number of the locations used during the exercise and meet participating soldiers from both the ADF and United States Forces.
Dates: 12 – 17 July
Number of participants: Limited to two.
Location: Rockhampton, QLD.
OUTLINE
The Army’s Exercise HAMEL 17 is the field training component of the larger joint Exercise TALISMAN SABER 17. The exercise is a major undertaking for Army which tests soldier’s combat skills to the highest level, and builds on the interoperability that has been developed between Australian and United States military forces.
The exercise will incorporate diverse activities by the Land Force, including amphibious landings, parachuting, urban fighting techniques and the complicated logistics that underpin Army’s operational success.
Option 9ARMY - Exercise SEA EXPLORER OUTLINE
Exercise SEA EXPLORER is a joint exercise between the Army and the Navy and provides an opportunity for the Amphibious Ready Group to conduct joint amphibious skills training at the individual to collective level to test operational capability.
Combined Navy and Army staff will undertake refresher training in amphibious planning. Pre-landing force elements will conduct familiarisation training focusing on flight operations involving the integration of Amphibious Ready Group vehicles, ship-to-shore connectors and joint fires.
The exercise will take place around Cowley Beach Training Area and Mourilyan Harbour in North Queensland.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
You will be hosted throughout your visit by exercise planning and operations staff from Headquarters Forces Command where you will have the opportunity to:
• Observe specialist amphibious training involving the pre-landing force.
• Participate in driver training using the range of vehicles operated by the pre-landing force.
• Observe and participate in aviation mission rehearsals, amphibious landings, landing craft mission rehearsals and medical response training.
• Gain insight into how the ADF tests and evaluates preparedness as the core capability within Australia’s Amphibious Task Force.
Dates: 26 – 30 April
Number of participants: Limited to two.
Location: Townsville, QLD.
Option 10ARMY – Combined Arms Training CentreOUTLINE
The Combined Arms Training Centre is the Army’s premier institute preparing officers and soldiers for employment as warfighting specialists. The training centre governs the corps schools of armour, artillery, engineers and infantry where recruits are provided the necessary knowledge and skills to function as a team member in their respective trade.
The Combined Arms Training Centre is also responsible for leadership and corps specialist training of Officers and Other Ranks at each Training Establishment.
The Combined Arms Training Centre is pivotal in Force Modernisation within Army and plays an active role in the introduction into service of emerging capabilities.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
On arrival, you will be received by the Combined Arms Training Centre and provided a brief on the key activities of the various combat arms schools. You will have the opportunity to:
• Observe and participate in soldier training, including drill, weapons, field craft and a variety of other theoretical lessons at the School of Artillery and the School of Armour in Puckapunyal.
• Meet new Army officers undergoing their initial employment training following their graduation from the Royal Military College of Australia.
• You will see the soldiers and officers newly allocated to the Corps of Artillery and Armour as they undergo their professional training. Experience a live fire exercise and view simulated and live fire forward observer training with the Army’s digitised battlefield.
Proposed Dates: 3 – 7 April
Number of participants: Limited to 10.
Locations: Puckapunyal, VIC.
Option 11AIR FORCE - RAAF Base AmberleyOUTLINE
RAAF Base Amberley is the largest operational base in the Air Force employing approximately 5,800 Service and civilian personnel. It is located near Ipswich, 50km southwest of Brisbane.
RAAF Base Amberley is home to three of the Air Force’s newest aircraft, including the F/A-18F Super Hornet, the KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport and C-17 Globemaster. Amberley also hosts the headquarters for the largest force element Group, Combat Support Group (CSG). The Group’s name reflects its current focus on combat capabilities and is responsible for airbase services, command, control and management during peace and conflict. The Base continues to grow and is now also home to Army elements making up the 9th Force Support Battalion and the 6th Engineer Support Regiment.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
• Tour RAAF Base Amberley’s airfield, Air Traffic Control and aircraft working areas to experience the operating aircraft up close.
• Participate in a C-17, F/A-18F or KC-30A simulator ride and, depending on squadron scheduling, take a familiarisation flight on a KC-30A or a C-17.
• Join CSG staff for an insight into the work that goes into keeping the Air Force operational, including a visit to the Health Services Wing to see how they set up an aero-medical evacuation facility on the C-17, before joining Number 382 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron in the field, where they will set up an Air Point of Departure and an Evacuation Handling Centre.
• Spend time with personnel at the RAAF School of Fire and Security and get a hands-on experience with fire fighting and the Panther Fire Fighting Truck, as well as the Military Working Dogs.
Dates: This is a five day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of participants: Limited to four.
Location: Ipswich, QLD.
Option 12AIR FORCE - RAAF Base East SaleOUTLINE
RAAF Base East Sale is located approximately 220km east of Melbourne in the Gippsland region of Victoria. Formed as an operational and training base in April 1943, it was home to Number 1 Operational Training Unit, flying Beaufort light bomber aircraft. With almost 2,500 personnel, the unit was responsible for training operational aircrew and patrolling the south-eastern corner of Australia.
Following World War II, the main function of RAAF Base East Sale has been the postgraduate training of Joint Battlefield Air Traffic Controllers (JBAC), Navigators and Pilots. It is now also responsible for the training of Air Combat Officers and Air Force Officers through the Initial Officer Course at Officers’ Training School (OTS). RAAF Base East Sale also hosts Headquarters Air Training Wing.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
• Tour RAAF Base East Sale’s airfield where you will see the aircraft and spend time with students from Central Flying School, School of Air Warfare, 32 Squadron, School of Air Traffic Control and Number 1 Flying Training School.
• Participate in a PC-9 or King Air familiarisation flight (depending on squadron scheduling); experience state of the art simulation in the JBAC tower simulator; and tour the construction site of the new AIR5428 facilities.
• Join the dedicated staff and students at the OTS to gain an insight into how modern Air Force Officers are trained and developed by participating in adventure training, leadership exercises and complex field activities.
• Visit the weapons range and use a suite of ADF service weapon systems under the guidance of Airfield Defence Guards from Number 1 Security Forces Squadron.
• Experience Air Force’s unique culture and customs by participating in a formal dining in night at the OTS Students’ Mess.
Dates: This is a three to five day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of participants: No limit.
Location: East Sale, VIC.
Option 13AIR FORCE - RAAF Base EdinburghOUTLINE
RAAF Base Edinburgh is the largest military base in South Australia, employing approximately 3,000 personnel. Located 25km north of Adelaide, the Base is the home of 19 units, the two largest being 92 Wing (92WG) and RAAF Air Warfare Centre (AWC).
92WG operate the AP-3C Orion surveillance aircraft and regularly undertake a range of operational border security missions. The AWC, established in January 2016, enables warfighting capability and encompasses the Information Warfare Directorate, the Test and Evaluation Directorate and the Air Force Ranges Directorate.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
• Help plan and brief a maritime surveillance mission where you will learn how to locate everything from submarines to illegal fishing boats in Australian waters.
• Learn about Number 1 Radar Surveillance Unit’s role in conducting wide area surveillance, which utilises Australia’s world leading high-frequency Over-The-Horizon-Radar capability.
• Take a flight in a Test and Evaluation Directorate PC-9A as one of the highly skilled test pilots demonstrate how they put the aircraft through its paces before its acceptance into ADF service.
• Tour the RAAF Institute of Aviation Medicine to learn how ADF aircrew are trained in the effects of flight at high altitude and high “g” forces and their impact on the body. Try out the Night Vision simulator.
• See how Information Warfare Directorate produces targeting intelligence for precision guided munitions delivery; and gain an understanding of cyber warfare vulnerability.
• Conduct a one day visit to RAAF Woomera and the Woomera Test Range where the RAAF conducts weapon system test and evaluation.
• Participate in a Protected Mobility Vehicle familiarisation drive and visit the Weapon Training Simulation System. Receive hands on experience with ADF weapons systems, culminating in a live fire shoot at the weapons range wearing full body armour.
Dates: This is a five day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of positions: No limit.
Location: Adelaide, SA.
Option 14AIR FORCE - RAAF Base Williamtown OUTLINE
RAAF Base Williamtown is located just north of Newcastle and is one of the Air Force’s busiest and most complex bases. The Base is home to 32 units and 20 organisations. A variety of aircraft permanently operate from Williamtown, including the F/A-18 Hornet, the Hawk 127 and E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft. Other major elements at the Base include Headquarters Air Combat Group, Headquarters Surveillance and Response Group, and the Eastern Region Operations Centre.
RAAF Base Williamtown is currently undergoing major New Aircraft Combat Capability works in the lead up to the introduction to service of the F-35 Lightning III advanced fighter in 2018.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
• Join an aircraft maintenance team as they prepare the Hawk 127 or F/A-18 Hornet aircraft for the daily flying program. Observe the planning and briefing for the mission and then witness a training mission being flown.
• Experience a familiarisation flight in a Hawk 127, F/A 18 Hornet or the E-7 Wedgetail surveillance aircraft, depending on squadron scheduling. Meet, work with and observe multiple ground and air based personnel in their daily work routines.
• Observe the thorough medical regime that aircrew are required to complete in order to conduct the flying missions.
• View the Operations Room where fighter control missions are conducted and observe a Mission Readiness Exercise for the Air Battle Managers in Afghanistan.
• View the operation of the Air Traffic Controllers in the Approach Room and Control Tower, which provides services for Hawk 127 F/A-18 Hornet and civilian passenger aircraft movements.
• Join the Number 1 Security Forces Squadron to experience how the Airfield Defence Guards and Military Working Dog Teams operate.
• Undertake a personal tour and briefing on the $1.5b New Aircraft Combat Capability works program for the base.
Dates: This is a five day program. The dates for this option are flexible within the parliamentary recess periods.
Number of participants: Limited to two.
Location: Newcastle, NSW.
Option 15JOINT OPERATION – Operation RESOLUTE
OUTLINE
Operation RESOLUTE is Defence’s contribution to the Whole-of-Government approach to protecting Australia’s offshore maritime interests from security threats, including illegal maritime arrivals; maritime terrorism; piracy, robbery and violence at sea; compromises to bio-security; illegal activity in protected areas; illegal exploitation of natural resources such as illegal fishing; marine pollution; and prohibited imports and exports.
The ADF contributes forces under Operation RESOLUTE to Maritime Border Command. At any one time, up to 800 ADF personnel are at sea, in the air and on the land, working to protect Australia’s borders and offshore maritime interests. They work alongside personnel from Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and other agencies.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
With increasing emphasis on inter-governmental agency interaction; this is an excellent opportunity to join the ADF and Australian Border Force in their combined role to protect Australia’s borders and maritime interests and:
• Spend a day in Headquarters Maritime Border Command in Canberra where you will be briefed on the strategic aspects of Maritime Border Protection activities and be kitted in uniform ready for your deployment.
• Travel to Darwin or Cairns – the destination will depend on operational tasking, conditions and activities.
• Undertake a patrol on board one of the Navy’s Armidale Class Patrol boats or one of the Customs and Border Protection vessels.
• Embark on an Air Force P3C aircraft or Customs aircraft as it conducts an aerial patrol of the northern approaches to Australia.
Dates: 3 – 7 April 3 – 7 July 2 – 6 October
Number of participants: Limited to two.
Location: Canberra, ACT and either Darwin, NT or Cairns, QLD.
Option 16JOINT OPERATION – Middle East Region OUTLINE
The ADF is working with a number of coalition partners in various operations on land, sea and air in the Middle East Region, including:
Operation OKRA –the ADF’s contribution to the international effort to combat the Daesh terrorist threat in Iraq and Syria.
Operation HIGHROAD – the ADF’s support to the NATO-led train, advise and assist mission in Afghanistan.
Operation MANITOU – the ADF’s contribution to the international effort to promote maritime security, stability and prosperity in the Middle East Region.
Operation ACCORDIAN – the ADF’s mission to support the sustainment of ADF operations, enable contingency planning and enhance regional relationships in the Middle East Region.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
You will board a Defence charter plane at Sydney International Airport and travel to Al Minhad Airbase in the United Arab Emirates to join Australian Joint Task Force 633. Here you will have the opportunity to:
• Orientate and prepare for the week ahead and be introduced to the complex, multi-faceted nature of ADF operations.
• Observe and interact with the ADF which may include land operations, including the training of national forces in Iraq or Afghanistan; air operations combating Daesh in Iraq and Syria; and maritime enforcement in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
• You will return to Australia on a Defence charter aircraft from Al Minhad Airbase.
• Please note: every endeavour will be made for you to observe all areas of operations; however the broad geographic spread of ADF activities, operational imperatives and the security situation may impact upon program delivery.
Number of participants: Limited to six.
Location: Middle East Region.
Option 17COMBINED EXERCISES – TALISMAN SABER 17 OUTLINE
Exercise TALISMAN SABER is a biennial series of exercises conducted by Australia and the United States. The aim of the TALISMAN SABER series is to practice combined and joint operations in high level mid-intensity war fighting environments, improve combat readiness and enhance interoperability.
Exercise TALISMAN SABER 17 will be the ADF’s major combined training activity for the year, with the field training component conducted in Queensland in the vicinity of Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
Starting at Rockhampton with the Deployable Joint Force Headquarters, you will be provided operational briefings on the exercise, experience the Headquarters functioning. You will be embedded with the troops experiencing the same living conditions and have the opportunity to:
• Observe how major operations and significant numbers of soldiers, sailors and airmen and women are commanded.
• Experience amphibious operations from the sea and potentially move ashore as part of the operation. You may also have the opportunity to visit and be briefed on the United States amphibious capabilities in the area.
• Witness land manoeuvre operations by the combined Australian and United States forces in the training area. Movement around the area could be on foot or in Bushmaster Protected Mobility and other armoured vehicles.
Dates: 9 – 16 July
Number of participants: Limited to two.
Location: Rockhampton, QLD.
Option 18JOINT EXERCISE - NORTHERN SHIELD 17OUTLINE
Exercise NORTHERN SHIELD tests the readiness of the ADF to deploy maritime, land and air components into an Area of Operations to respond to a credible and rapidly emerging threat within Australia in support of the Civil Authority (police and state government). It is described as a “rapid, short to no-notice activity”.
Exercise NORTHERN SHIELD 2017 will involve upwards of 1,500 ADF personnel from across Australia.
INDICATIVE PROGRAM
You will board a Navy Landing Helicopter Dock ship (either HMAS Canberra or Adelaide) and depart with the Amphibious Task Group to the Coral Sea. You will have the opportunity to:
• Engage in the vessel’s preparations and daily activities. Operational briefings on the exercise and the capabilities of the task group will be provided.
• Transit over a significant distance by helicopter from the ship to a land base. You will then travel by fixed wing aircraft to the Headquarters locations, and then by a final road move you will arrive at a location where you will be hosted by Headquarters Joint Task Force to experience preparatory training and command and control of forces.
• You will witness land manoeuvre operations as the ground forces operate within the training area. Movement around the area will likely be on foot or in Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles, observing soldiers interacting with both the local population and simulated hostile forces.
• Move to Exercise Control and have the opportunity to observe how major exercises are managed and controlled to deliver training outcomes.
• You will have the opportunity to attend an Open Day that provides the community with an insight into the capabilities they have seen in and around their communities during the exercise.
Dates: This is a seven day option to be conducted in mid September 2017 during the spring parliamentary recess period. As NORTHERN SHIELD is a “no-notice” activity, participants will be advised of specific details much closer to the event in order to preserve operational security.
Number of participants: Limited to two.
Location: A location in Northern Australia to be confirmed in the lead up to the activity.
Executive Officer ADF Parliamentary Program Major Lisa Collie 02 6265 6525 [email protected]
Contact Details
Alternate Contact – ADF Parliamentary Program Director Plans and Programs Mr Tony Bradford 02 6266 7077 [email protected]
Advisor Minister for Defence Personnel Mr Rob Curtin 02 6277 4029 [email protected]
ADF Parliamentary Program Website www.defence.gov.au/adfpp
ADFPP 2016 - Exchange Participants
For further information please visit our website at:www.defence.gov.au/adfpp
DPS: DEC016-16
