A statement from the Chief of the Defence Force

Contrary to media reporting today, the Chief of the Defence Force, General David Hurley has not provided advice or recommendations to Opposition Leader, Mr Tony Abbott with respect to Coalition policy on asylum seeker issues.

Defence understands that the Chief of the Defence Force would be consulted regarding any future policies affecting Defence to be implemented by a future government.

The Chief of the Defence Force's role is to implement the policies of the Government of the Day and the Australian Defence Force continues to contribute to the whole-of-government effort to protect Australia's borders and offshore maritime interests through Operation RESOLUTE.

Approximately 500 Defence personnel are assigned to support Operation RESOLUTE and up to seven Armidale Class Patrol Boats, one major Fleet Unit, three AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft and a Transit Security Element.

The work is difficult, dangerous and unrelenting. 

The men and women who are deployed on Operation RESOLUTE do an outstanding job under intense scrutiny.

 Media contact:

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999