Duchess appointed as Military Police Chief

Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall, was appointed the inaugural Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Australian Corps of Military Police during a parade held at Sydney’s historic Victoria Barracks in Paddington. 

More than 110 Military Police personnel formed a Royal Guard in honour of The Duchess of Cornwall’s appointment, which further builds on the traditional link between the Australian Army and the Royal Family. 

The Army’s Provost Marshal, Lieutenant Colonel Murray Heron, said today’s Royal appointment was an historic and memorable moment for the Corps. 

“It’s an honour and privilege for the Royal Australian Corps of Military Police to have Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall as the Corps’ Colonel-in-Chief,” Lieutenant Colonel Heron said. 

“This is a significant milestone and a proud moment in the 96-year history of our Corps.” 

Following today’s parade, Her Royal Highness was invited to meet with some of the men and women who serve as Military Police, along with their families. 

The Royal Australian Corps of Military Police is a small, highly trained and professional Corps providing command support and police support to the Army and the Australian Defence Force in peace, crisis and conflict on any operation, anywhere in the world. 

The Military Police law enforcement role is a critical component of the Military Justice System, the purpose of which is to maintain military effectiveness and to maintain the reputation of the Australian Army.  

The Royal Australian Corps of Military Police was initially formed on 3 April 1916 as the ANZAC Provost Corps.

The Corps was reformed during World War II and was granted the 'Royal' prefix in 1948, adopting its current name on 4 September 1974.  

Media Note:  

When available, images will be at http://images.defence.gov.au/12131728