I have always appreciated the presence of a uniformed Christian Chaplain in the various contexts within which I have served. These include on Operations, on major exercises, on courses and in barracks. A good Chaplain is able to listen well and then “speak into” the many parts of our life in an encouraging and thoughtful way. Sometimes we just need a good listener who can sit with us and other times we need people that can spur us into action. For me, the Chaplains that have been part of my journey in the military over 25 plus years have done just that, reminding me of the privilege of serving our nation and digging me out of deep holes. I would not have it any other way.

I like the way Chaplains have specialised in the pastoral and spiritual care of ADF members, helping people when events they experience challenge their understanding of how the world functions. Such challenges can severely undermine a person's confidence at many levels and the uncertainty that results can be debilitating. Chaplains help people explore their belief systems and find that confidence again. They can walk with ADF members as they navigate life. Chaplains assist at both individual and collective levels, through - weddings, christenings/dedications, funerals and memorials - that provide opportunities for life's moments to be marked and processed in ways that are culturally meaningful and helpful like no other members of the defence.