Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Rennick for that question. Last week I was very privileged to return to the Sea Power Conference conducted by Navy. Last week, it was the 11th such conference they've held, and it was in Sydney. And it was a huge success. Over 3,000 registered participants attended from the military to industry and also academia from over 50 nations. We all gathered to discuss the significance of sea power and also their contribution to Australia's military capability. In the keynote speech, I highlighted the vital role that our Navy plays in supporting Australia's interests in regional and also global security and stability. As I explained there, we are acquiring new naval capabilities because we must. Our nation needs these capabilities. But our Navy is also working in new ways with friends and allies to support the changing realities. In short, the Navy is busier than it has ever been before.