Australia's first National Security College will begin activities in May after its official launch by the Prime Minister Kevin Rudd at The Australian National University on 24th April 2010.

In a major address on national security this afternoon, the Prime Minister said the National Security College at ANU will enhance collaborative leadership in the national security community and build trusted networks within and outside government.

ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Chubb welcomed the launch, saying that it was fitting that the national university be home to the nation's first college focused exclusively on national security issues.

Professor Chubb said that there are few areas in which this is more vital to our common good than our security as a nation.

The National Security College is an important demonstration of the partnership between ANU and the Commonwealth Government, and we're grateful to the Prime Minister for sparking this initiative. The College will build on the existing expertise in national security issues already in place at ANU, as well as strengthening links with other agencies and institutions, he said.

Professor Michael L'Estrange Founding Director of the College said: Our aim is to build up the analytic skills and collaborative leadership attitudes among the members of the national security community in government, and to provide a range of academic courses and research which will be accessible for people inside and outside government.

He said that the National Security College is in the process of establishing its postgraduate programs, including a Post Graduate Program in National Security Studies beginning in 2011.

We also aim to conduct and commission relevant research projects, as well as working with state and territory governments, the business community and with community organisations involved in issues related to national security.

jc

Australia Security