Do people know?
The Defence Teaming Centre's Defence Leaders Breakfast did as promised, exploring the evolving paradigms outlined in the Defence Strategic Review (DSR) and the National Defence Strategy (NDS).
It was insightful to hear about the responsibility and experiences of defence policy makers, while exploring the gaps in our current defence strategies and the possible solutions.
Discussions around Australian society's general awareness and understanding of our geopolitical situation, was a panel topic that got me thinking. If we surveyed the average Aussie, how many do you think would be able to convey even a basic analysis? 2 in 10, 9 in 10 people?
In fairness, most people right now are more concerned about the cost of living, seeking economic stability, and parents are hoping their children will have fulfilling careers and financial security – maybe get to buy a house one day! It’s something we’re all feeling, it affects us.
A foreign threat is not something the average Aussie could describe as something they can ‘feel’ right now, as it’s not directly affecting them today (indirectly yes, as wars impact the global economy).
Without the defence capacity to deter threats, or act swiftly if these threats become realised on our shores, we will surely ‘feel’ the impact of war then.
As a marketing professional, I can’t help but think about communication solutions, raising awareness and supporting the strategies that engage this generation to think about contributing their skills to building Australia’s defence capability – whether that be in the ADF, or in the defence industry - and without using scare tactics.
A strong line of defence is crucial in protecting individual liberty, political freedom, and our democratic political system. Deterring threats in the first place is a key strategy as described in the NDS as a Strategy of Denial.
Investment into the Strategy of Denial will be far less expensive or consequential than fighting a war.
A war can impact our livelihood, and reframe our future prospects. The more devastating cost though, would be the loss of lives.