Reception to mark the Centenary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands on which this House stands – the Wurundjeri and Bunurong people – and pay my respects to their Elders, past and present.

As we mark a centenary since the formation of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, it’s fitting we meet on the exact day, 77 years ago, that the Corps was conferred the title ‘Royal’ by King George VI.

Your Royal Highness – it is a privilege to host you here tonight as you continue this longstanding Royal connection, begun by your grandfather, and carried on by you as Colonel-in-Chief.

Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of visiting Simpson Barracks – as Her Royal Highness did today – to tour the 138 Signal Squadron headquarters and the Defence School of Signals.

It is striking to reflect on the incredible transformation of the Corps since its formal establishment 100 years ago.

No sector is immune from the impact of advancements in technology, but few have been in the forefront of such change in the way that signallers have.

The Corps has adapted to drastic shifts in its operations that have occurred rapidly within mere decades.

Until very recently, Jim Easton was the oldest living signaller, having fought in World War II in the 8^th Division Signals – including spending three years as a prisoner of war.

He served at a time when the Australian Pigeon Section was in operation and lived to see an age where the Corps is reckoning with the challenges of cyberspace, drones and satellites.

Jim passed away in September at the age of 108, and his story of service is one of many that have defined the Corps.

Owing to its sophistication, the work of the Corps is less often, or indeed able to be, captured in the popular telling of our military history.

It is perhaps less formed in the public’s conception of what it means to serve in the defence force – and the major changes we are experiencing in modern warfare.

While few are familiar with intricacies of the Corps’ operations, you can be assured the population relies on the critical importance of your roles.

And understandably the current conflict in Ukraine is building a better understanding of the changes in warfare.

People are aware that communications technology is ever-evolving, as is the challenge of managing it.

And they are aware that those profound responsibilities are being met with expertise and diligence.

With that knowledge comes peace of mind that the future security of our nation is in trusted hands.

All of you should be just as proud of your contribution to peace and security as you are of this significant milestone.

On this occasion, we reflect on the service of all those signallers who came before you, and acknowledge that carrying forward their legacy of precision and excellence is the most powerful way to honour their memory.

That remains true, no matter how much the world changes around us.

So, as you follow in the footsteps of those before you, I wish you all a swift and sure journey as you meet the challenges of the future.

Thank you.