Exercise Austral Shield 2024 concludes

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has concluded Exercise Austral Shield 2024, practising its ability to rapidly deploy to Australia’s north and respond to domestic security threats. 

Supported by local communities, state emergency services and law enforcement, the exercise was conducted from 12-26 July around Derby in Western Australia, Darwin in the Northern Territory, Cairns in Queensland, and Christmas Island.

This security and response force drew participants from around Australia, but was focused around reserve contributions from the Army’s 2nd Division, including Western Australia’s 13th Brigade and Queensland’s 11th Brigade. 

The Regional Force Surveillance Group, maritime and air task units also deployed as part of the integrated joint task force.

Exercise Director Brigadier Damian Hill said Austral Shield 2024 was a valuable opportunity to rehearse the rapid response of full-time and ADF reserve personnel to form Joint Task Force 629. 

“The personnel deployed on Austral Shield enjoyed working closely with local, state and territory agencies and communities to make a meaningful contribution to our collective security,” Brigadier Hill said.

“The ability for the ADF to rapidly deploy and employ forces is critical to our role supporting civil authorities in domestic security activities and maintaining an agile and ready force.” 

As Exercise Austral Shield concludes, military convoys will be returning from Derby to Perth and from Cairns to Brisbane. 

Defence requests the public remains aware and exercises caution around these convoys, but encourages the public to engage with military personnel they may encounter at rest stops. 

Media note

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/S20241266