SEAC urges personnel to keep speaking up

WOFF Ken Robertson completed his tenure as the first SEAC on July 9, handing over to WO Jason Robinson.

Since July 2023, WOFF Robertson has worked closely with the service WOs, and provided advice to the CDF on matters relating to enlisted personnel on ADF culture, development and sustainment of ethical leadership, and joint and professional military education.

WOFF Robertson enlisted in 1995 as a PCS. He has served in a number of personnel, instructional and command appointments, and deployed on numerous operations. He was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2017 for his service as the CWOFF in HQJTF 633.

WOFF Robertson said building the SEAC appointment from the ground up had been a privilege and a challenge.

“To the ADF workforce, this role exists because of you. Keep speaking up, keep leading and keep looking after one another,” WOFF Robertson said.

“What this role has become is a direct reflection of your trust, your candour and your willingness to be heard. Thank you for the openness of your conversations with me. Across bases, units and forums, across the globe, you spoke honestly about your experiences.”

In farewelling WOFF Robertson, CDF Adml David Johnston said WOFF Robertson had given sound advice and support as SEAC, contributing to a higher-performing ADF through his efforts to professionalise Defence’s cohort of NCOs.

“I have highly valued and appreciated his advocacy for our workforce,” Adml Johnston said.

“I thank him and his family for the significant contribution they have made to the ADF.”