In today’s globalised world, the line between national defence and private enterprise has blurred, particularly in the Air, Space and Cyber domains. And, reliance on private contractors poses potential significant risks for Australia.

As the world returns to great power competition, smaller powers like Australia and Canada will need to work together on advancing their shared security interests; particularly with a changing U.S. outlook.

Instincts are shaped by human evolution. They offer fast, evolved decision-making support—balancing logic with emotional insight and helping individuals perform better under pressure or uncertainty. Balanced instinct and logic drive personal success.

The Taliban captured Kabul on 15 August, 2021. Just days later, thirteen US service members and about 170 Afghans were killed in a suicide bomb attack at Hamid Karzai International Airport’s Abbey Gate.

Developed by Gilmour Space Technologies, Gold Coast, a last-minute issue halted the launch from a purpose-built pad in Bowen, north Queensland —highlighting the challenges of emerging space capability and the need for careful systems testing.

This milestone makes Australia the first international F-35 customer to implement this advanced training capability, lowering costs and significantly bolstering the global readiness and interoperability of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter fleet.

Lasting success in complex environments demands practical teamwork—shared planning, mutual respect, and software-driven solutions that unite land and sea operations at every level. Collaboration must begin early, remain constant and relationships influence career progression.

The US Marine Corps are close to having a complete, modern fighter jet fleet. The problem is the jets are still equipped with 1980s-era weapons technology—AI will play a crucial role in fixing that.

Finland maintains national stockpiles of critical supplies. A culture of preparedness—based on shared responsibility and long-term planning—offers practical insights for how Australia, both public and private, might handle crises with more resilience and foresight.

Because we can’t predict the future, our best bet is to prepare for it—sharpen internal resources within our control that will help us make the best of it. Enter mindset, agility, and creativity.