Defence Review 2009 Public Consultation Document
Introduction to the Defence Review
The last White Paper on Defence was published in 1997. Since then, the environment within which our Defence Force operates has changed considerably. The tempo of operations is greater than envisaged then. Resource pressures have also increased. This Review will form the blueprint for preparing the Defence Force for the challenges it faces now and in the future.
New Zealand has a range of response options available when its interests are challenged. These include diplomatic, legal, economic as well as military responses. If New Zealand does not have a credible Defence Force, our options are limited.
The Defence Review will take a wide but pragmatic view of the defence capabilities that currently exist and what will be needed to ensure that New Zealanders continue to be safe in a challenging world.
The Defence Act 1990 requires the Secretary of Defence to conduct an assessment of defence requirements. In undertaking this work the Secretary, John McKinnon, will have the assistance of the Chief of Defence Force as well as an Advisory Panel.
Advisory Panel
The Advisory Panel acts independently of the main review. It will provide a continuous audit and an independent viewpoint. Panel members have been selected for their expertise in foreign policy, military affairs, and management practices. The members are:
- Simon Murdoch – former Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade
- Martyn Dunne – former Commander Joint Forces New Zealand
- Robert McLeod – Managing Partner, Ernst & Young New Zealand.
Companion Studies
There will be three companion studies on specific subjects relating to the broader defence sphere. These will be led by the Associate Minister of Defence and will consider:
- Defence industry
- The role of the Defence Force in the conduct of youth programmes
- The potential for Voluntary National Service across the Whole-of-Government.
