Defence is merging the divisions of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and the Head of Knowledge Systems (HKS).
The purpose of the merger is to better coordinate the management of defence's information capability and meet the demands of a 21st century information-based organization.
Mr. Patrick Hannan will continue as the CIO with Rear Admiral Peter Clarke (formally Head of Knowledge Systems) as the Deputy to the CIO.
The CIO will act on behalf of the Service Chiefs and Mr. Ron Bonighton, Deputy Secretary Intelligence and Security for the coordination and strategic direction of warfighting and intelligence systems.
Responsibility for the detailed development of Defence Information Environment {DIE) related capital projects will transfer to the Head of Capability Systems.
"This approach to the management of information is the next stage of a long term approach to developing information as a true capability within Defence," Mr. Hannan said.
"We recognize that information management is not just about computers and hardware it is about being part of the shaping of the strategic policy direction of the organization."
As CIO, Mr. Hannan will be a member of the Defence Committee and accountable to the Chief of the Defence Force and the Secretary for the joint direction of the DIE.
The DIE encompasses intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, communications, information warfare, electronic warfare, command and headquarters systems, and management (logistics and business) systems.
Rear Admiral Clarke said the new leadership team in Defence was making it absolutely clear that information is at the heart of all Defence did.
"Information will no longer be seen as either administrative or operational. The Defence Information Environment will be a single entity."
"This is a ground breaking initiative, it draws together both military and civilian talent to tackle one of the largest tasks of its type in Australia," Rear Admiral Clarke said.
-ends- Merger Marks New Era In Defence Information Management
