The Australian Army will facilitate a national conversation about its role in Australia's future at the Chief of Army Symposium 2025 in Canberra.
The theme of the two-day event is 'Army in Society' - exploring Army's relationship with the nation - bringing together Defence, academics, think tanks, industry and media to discuss the future-focused and rapidly evolving service.
Australia is facing its most challenging strategic circumstances since the Second World War. To meet these challenges Army is rapidly adapting to be prepared to fight in littoral environments and deploy long-range strike capabilities as part of the joint force.
Success in this evolution requires the support of the nation Army serves, so it has never been more important to examine Army's place in Australia's national identity, our society's trust in Army, and national resilience in the face of crisis.
Panel discussions will explore the future relationship between the Army and the nation, considering factors such as Army's place in Australia's national identity, the importance of trust, and the imperative of national resilience.
Panel members across the two days include General Sir Peter Cosgrove (ret), Lieutenant General Peter Leahy (ret), Professor Sir Hew Strachan, Professor Risa Brooks, Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman, Tony Jones and speakers from across Defence.
Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart said now was the time to assess Army's role in society.
"The Australian Army is an Army for the nation, and part of the community it serves," Lieutenant General Stuart said.
"Our nation once again lives in an era of great power competition, where our defence and security are a national effort.
"We must ensure the nation's expectations and demands are met, and that the Army is fit for purpose to support the National Defence Strategy."
The Chief of Army Symposium will be open to the public via livestream.
