Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed Meghan Quinn as the first female secretary of the Department of Defence, describing her as a 'stand-out candidate'. Quinn, currently secretary of the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, will replace Greg Moriarty, who is leaving to become US ambassador.
The appointment has surprised some in defence circles, as Quinn's background focuses on economic policy, financial markets, and corporate governance rather than defence. She steps into the role at a time of major reform, with the department set to be overhauled and a new independent agency established to deliver major projects.
Shadow Defence Minister James Paterson congratulated Quinn, calling her a highly competent senior public servant. Meanwhile, Paterson called on the government to double Australia's minimum fuel reserves and suggested acquiring B-21 stealth bombers from the US to bridge the gap until AUKUS submarines arrive, despite the 2023 Defence Strategic Review recommending against it.
Paterson also addressed the nomination of David Brat as US ambassador to Australia, welcoming the announcement, and declined to speculate on Australia's role in a Taiwan Strait conflict, stating participation in any conflict is a sovereign choice.
