- Experiences Working in the National Security Environment

THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
The Centre for Muslim States and Societies and Women in International Security (Australia) - WIISA

Luncheon Meeting with Ms Myra Rowling
Principal, Centre for Defence and Strategic Studies,
Australian Defence College

12 December 2005 from 1-2.30pm, at the Private Dining Room,
the University Club, UWA


Experiences Working in the National Security Environment

Working for the Australian Defence Organisation (ADO) with its 70,000 full time employees is a challenging and fascinating career. Myra Rowling draws on her many years in the ADO in international relations, intelligence and training and development to talk about the many interesting opportunities available. These opportunities are expanding rapidly, not only in the ADO but also in the whole-of-government national security apparatus in Canberra, around Australia and overseas. Myra is a founding member of Women in International Security Affairs Australia, Canberra chapter.


Brief Biography:

Myra Rowling joined the Department of Defence in 1971, after graduating from the University of Queensland with an Asian Studies degree. She worked in the Defence Intelligence Organisation until 1979 when she joined Strategic and International Policy Division, working in each of the geographic branches (Pacific, Asia and North America/Joint Facilities). In 1982 she attended the Joint Services College, and in 1986/87 participated in the Public Service Interchange Scheme working with local government in Brisbane.

In 1987, Myra was appointed Assistant Secretary, Asia Branch, International Policy Division, where she was responsible for the development of Australian defence policy on Asia, for the conduct of the
defence relationship with each of the Asian countries, and for the Defence Co-operation Program with the ASEAN countries.

From 1991 to 1993 Myra was Counsellor Defence Policy in the Australian Embassy in Washington. She returned to the position of Assistant Secretary North America and Intelligence, where she was responsible for providing policy advice to Government on the defence relationship with the US. From 1994-1997 Myra ran the Defence Training and Development Branch.

During her time in the Defence Signals Directorate Myra occupied the Assistant Secretary Executive Branch position and in April 1999 was promoted to the position of Deputy Director.

In November 2000 Myra became Deputy Head, Defence Personnel Executive, and in July 2001 transferred to the First Assistant Secretary position, Strategic & International Policy Division. In January 2005, she became Principal, Centre for Defence and Strategic Studies, Australian Defence College.