Representing RUSI-Q, President Andrew Kirby outlined the Institute’s perspective on the broader implications of estate rationalisation, emphasising the importance of maintaining Defence’s social license.
In his opening remarks, Mr Kirby noted that the Defence Estate Review is both necessary and appropriate, reflecting the need to align infrastructure with future capability requirements. However, he cautioned that decisions regarding the estate carry broader second-order effects beyond efficiency and cost.
RUSI-Q’s evidence highlighted the concept of social licence—
the public trust and legitimacy required of an institution entrusted with the use of force. As Defence consolidates its estate and, in many cases, moves towards more remote and secure facilities, there is a risk that this everyday visibility may diminish.
“The ADF is the only instrument of government tasked to apply lethal force on behalf of the state. Doing so requires a clear, and reciprocal, social license”
Andrew Kirby, President RUSIQ
The Institute argued that the issue is not simply one of preserving buildings, but of sustaining an ongoing and meaningful connection between Defence and the society it serves.
Drawing on the Queensland context, RUSI-Q outlined its engagement with state government stakeholders, including discussions with the Deputy Premier and Economic Development Queensland. These discussions have focused on the future public utility of Defence sites, rather than heritage considerations alone.
RUSI Hall, located within Victoria Barracks Brisbane, was identified as an example of how such sites could be repurposed. The Institute envisages the Hall as a community-accessible space supporting public education, civic dialogue, and engagement on defence and national security issues.
In its evidence to the Committee, RUSI-Q proposed three key considerations:
- that Defence recognise the generation and maintenance of social licence as a core element of estate transition;
- that selected sites be considered as ongoing interfaces between Defence and the public, rather than solely as assets for disposal or preservation; and
- that government support structured transition models that enable public use while removing ongoing liability from Defence.
The Institute welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the inquiry and stands ready to support efforts that strengthen public understanding of defence and national security.
