Speeches

Saturday, 07 June 2025

Australian Cadets King’s Birthday Parade

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It has been a pleasure to inspect this parade - the first combined parade to mark the King’s Birthday.

I too share your desire for this to become an annual event particularly as His Majesty has demonstrated a life-time commitment to advancing youth opportunity.

In its wider sense, this parade is one of many affirmations of the enduring relationship that exists between the Australian Defence Force and the Crown.

Rod and I have been impressed by the level of professionalism demonstrated by the you, the cadets, this afternoon. Well done!

Whether you have been wearing the uniform for a short time, or a longer time, the cadet program encourages you to be confident, resilient and demonstrate leadership.

By coming together in the lead up to today’s parade, you will now be aware of the similarities between the arms of the ADF, but also the differences.

I congratulate you all for taking on the challenge of being cadets. I am sure that by doing so, you have discovered much about yourself and extended your horizons.

You have also gained friendships and a sense of belonging that comes from being part of a tight-knit team.

The values of the Australian Defence Force – service, courage, respect, integrity, and excellence – are good building blocks for informed, active citizenship and good careers.

I thank Lieutenant Colonel Mark Lee, Acting Commander Headquarters, Australian Army Cadets for hosting this parade, as well as the senior cadets alongside Warrant Officer Class One Steven Langdon.

I also thank Major Tamara Barrow for her vision and work to bring this parade to fruition alongside the Army cadet and Airforce cadet staff.

I also thank the volunteers, parents and schools for your support throughout the year. Such commitment is invaluable in ensuring the success of the cadet program.

Congratulations to everyone, and especially the cadets, for honouring the King’s Birthday in this special parade today.