Statement of Intent 1 July 2007 - 30 June 2010
Preface
This Statement of Intent lays out the Ministry of Defence's diverse roles in supporting the Government's defence policy over 2007-10: policy advice, acquisition of major items of equipment, and audit and assessment. The Ministry operates in partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force and other key central government agencies to undertake these roles that are essential to the achievement of the Government's defence policy objectives.
The Secretary of Defence is the Government's principal civilian adviser on defence policy and the issues that influence our policy. In this role, the Ministry monitors developments in the strategic environment that are of relevance to New Zealand, and advises me on the implications for defence policy. The Ministry also advises the Government on military deployment options, and on opportunities for diplomatic and practical engagement with the defence forces of allied and partner nations.
In the period covered by this Statement of Intent, the Ministry and the New Zealand Defence Force will continue to work closely together, and exploit opportunities to improve their joint effectiveness, including focusing their governance and resource management efforts on those military capabilities the Government has determined are most relevant to New Zealand's needs.
In 2007-08, the Ministry's policy staff will be closely involved in implementing the changes initiated under the Defence Sustainability Initiative. This Initiative represents a major financial commitment by the Government to strengthen New Zealand's defence capability. Priorities for the new funding are building personnel levels, bringing new and upgraded equipment into service, and strengthening defence planning and management systems, especially strategic governance.
The Ministry will also remain heavily involved in procuring the major items of equipment required by the New Zealand Defence Force, as set out in the Defence Long-Term Development Plan. Major projects that will occupy the Ministry in 2007-08 include replacement helicopters, new ships for the Navy (Project Protector), and upgrading the Royal New Zealand Air Force's transport and maritime patrol aircraft.
In 2007-08, the Ministry's Evaluation Division will continue to audit both the Ministry and the New Zealand Defence Force to ensure that they are performing to the Government's expectations.
The Ministry of Defence is a key enabler of the Government's defence policy objectives. I expect the Ministry of Defence to continue to contribute significantly to defence outcomes for the benefit of all New Zealanders.
The information in the Ministry of Defence's Statement of Intent is consistent with the policy and performance expectations of the Government.
Hon Phil Goff
Minister of Defence
