Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

(1)   The dinner was attended by the forty-five participants of the annual Australia – US Army to Army Staff Talks. Eighteen of the participants were Australian Army, including the Deputy Chief of Army and Commander Force Command. The other 27 participants are from the US Army with the delegation being led by the US Army Director Army Staff, who is the second-in-command of the US Army.

(2)   The cost of the function, including set menu food, beverages, compulsory service charges and tax was $154.82 per person.

(3)   Staff Talks occur with our major allies on an annual basis and host responsibilities rotate between Australia and the partner. The Staff Talks represent the premier bilateral strategic dialogue between the US and Australian Army. The talks serve as a platform and coordination measure to maintain and improve interoperability and monitor achievements and work in progress. This forum is also utilised to review and endorse priorities and target goals. The agreed bilateral Terms of Reference for the talks agree that the host nation will host a dinner, wherever possible during the conduct of the talks.

(4)   In accordance with standard approval procedures for Army hospitality, this expenditure was approved by Director General Army Operations.