Introduction

'Those of us who are concerned with Defence will agree that the process of command of the Services, of defence policy formulation and administration are dynamic areas of activity. Change is continuous and differences of views and judgement are to be expected.

This requires of those intimately connected with Defence, both Services and in the Department, the exchange of ideas, and the cultivation of reflectiveness and analysis as positive disciplines.

In its own particular way the Defence Force Journal should contribute directly to this aim of informed discussion. It should also provide a means whereby we may have a more constructive and more enlightened approach to the issues of Australian Defence.

I wholeheartedly support the Defence Force Journal, its aims and ambitions. I hope it will encourage and stimulate professional discussion of issues involved in the broad fields of military and defence matters.'

The Hon D. J. Killen, MP
Minister for Defence
Defence Force Journal No. 1, 1976

'The publication of the first edition of the Defence Force Journal marks a step in the evolution of defence organization, philosophy and professionalism.'

General Sir Francis Hassett, AC, KBE, CB, DSO, MVO
Chief of Defence Force Staff
Defence Force Journal No. 1, 1976

'Old ideas die hard, especially when valued tradition surrounds them, but new ideas are no better than perceptiveness, imagination and prudence of those who originate them. But ideas are what Australia needs in order to create a Defence Force and a defence policy truly reflecting the requirements of independent Australia in the decades ahead. Every profession shares experiences within itself. It is healthiest when it also exchanges innovative ideas. The Defence Force Journal will provide an opportunity for our Service members of the profession of arms.'

Sir Arthur Tange, CBE
Secretary, Department of Defence
Defence Force Journal No. 1, 1976

The Australian Defence Force Journal is the official journal of the Australian Profession of Arms. The aim of the Journal is to promote discussion and understanding within the profession of all facets of defence.

The Australian Defence Force Journal was first published as the Defence Force Journal in November 1976 with the word ‘Australia’ being added to the title in 1991.