I was saddened to learn of the death of Sir James "Jim" Killen. Sir James was a larger than life character, with a strong dedication to service. Sir James served in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II, as Minister for the Navy from 1969 to 1971 and as Minister for Defence from 1975 to 1982. Among his many achievements as one of Australia’s longest serving Defence Ministers was Sir James’ delivery of the 1976 Defence White Paper. This heralded the policy of self-reliance, which has since been a mainstay of Australian strategic policy.

The flexible and robust Australian Defence Force that we have today was created on this strategic basis and is one of Sir James’ most enduring legacies. Sir James also oversaw what was, at the time, the largest single Defence acquisition in Australian history – the decision to purchase three squadrons of F/A-18 Hornets. To this day these aircraft remain a critical component of our air combat capability.

On behalf of the Australian Defence community, I pay tribute to this great Australian and extend our deepest sympathies to his widow, Lady Benise Killen and his family.