Gavan Reynolds is the new ABF Commissioner. Photo: ADF.
The Australian Defence Force’s inaugural Chief of Defence Intelligence will be the next Australian Border Force (ABF) Commissioner.
The Federal Government has announced the appointment of Gavan Reynolds AO as the new commissioner, to be sworn in on Sunday, 10 November.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Tony Burke issued a statement on Monday (14 October) describing Mr Reynolds as “well equipped to lead ABF through the current complex operating environment” and to meet the challenges of the future.
“Mr Reynolds brings a wealth of experience from his over 40 years of service to the nation, most recently as the Australian Defence Force’s inaugural Chief of Defence Intelligence,” they said.
“Since its establishment in 2015, the ABF has played a leading role in protecting Australia’s border while enabling legitimate travel and trade.
“As part of the Home Affairs portfolio, the ABF works closely with other agencies to ensure the security of our maritime environment and the integrity of our border.
“Under Mr Reynolds’ leadership, the ABF will continue to be a global leader in border law enforcement and a trusted partner that helps build a safe, secure and prosperous Australia.”
Mr Reynolds’ career has included serving with distinction in a number of strategic and operational posts, including as Australian military representative to NATO and the European Union, heading military strategic commitments in the Department of Defence and deployment to Afghanistan as part of the International Security Assistance Force.
In the same statement, the incoming commissioner outlined what he hoped to achieve.
“It is a privilege to lead the Australian Border Force and the dedicated people protecting the national asset that is our border,” Mr Reynolds said.
“I look forward to working closely with the Department of Home Affairs and across government to deliver prosperity, security and unity for Australia.”
Mr Reynolds will take over from Michael Outram, who retires on Saturday, 9 November.
“The government thanks Mr Outram for his dedicated service and his outstanding leadership of the ABF,” the Prime Minister and Mr Burke said.
The Australian Border Force Commissioner is a statutory officer with control of the operations of Australian Border Force.
The ABF Commissioner is Australia’s most senior border law enforcement officer and reports to the Home Affairs and Immigration Minister.
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