Former PM senior adviser Jimmy Kiploks the new General Manager of DefenceNT

A key senior adviser to former Prime Minister Scott Morrison will be tasked to strengthen the Territory’s role in Australia’s defence strategy.

Mr Jimmy Kiploks, the man former Prime Minister Morrison had lead development and delivery of the AUKUS trilateral security partnership, is the Finocchiaro government’s new General Manager of DefenceNT.

A key senior adviser to former Prime Minister Scott Morrison will be tasked to strengthen the Territory’s role in Australia’s defence strategy.

Mr Jimmy Kiploks, the man former Prime Minister Morrison had lead development and delivery of the AUKUS trilateral security partnership, is the Finocchiaro government’s new General Manager of DefenceNT.

As the Australian Prime Minister’s principal policy adviser across the Defence and Home Affairs portfolios he provided the Prime Minister with specialist policy, strategy and political advice across a range of areas, including defence strategy, the defence investment program, defence industry, capability acquisition and sustainment, the defence budget, naval capability and export controls.

Caption: US nuclear-powered submarine USS Minnesota pulled into Darwin Harbour, with a heavy civilian and military police presence keeping the high-value vessel under wraps from the public. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Apart from development and delivery of the AUKUS trilateral security partnership Mr Kiploks led delivery of Australia’s 2020 Defence Strategic Update and the 2020 Cyber Security Strategy.

Mr Kiploks most recently was Business Growth & Strategy Manager at Lockheed Martin Australia.

In his Territory Government role Mr Kiploks will lead DefenceNT’s work, grow local industry participation, and build strategic relationships with Defence, industry, and international partners.

Mr Kiploks led delivery of Australia’s 2020 Defence Strategic Update and the 2020 Cyber Security Strategy.

Chief Minister Finocchiaro said the CLP Government’s Rebuilding the Economy Strategy focuses on five key pillars – tourism, agriculture, mining, energy, and defence – the sectors with the greatest potential to drive jobs, attract investment, and grow the Territory’s economy.

“Today’s appointment will ensure we have the leadership and expertise to unlock new opportunities in these industries, strengthen local businesses, and secure long-term economic growth for the Territory,” Mrs Finocchiaro said.

“Our government is delivering a clear plan to rebuild the Territory economy and position the NT as a leader in these key sectors – because a stronger economy means more opportunities and a better lifestyle for every Territorian.”

Mr Kiploks said he looked forward to working with local industry and the community to maximise opportunities from the Territory’s strategic location.

“The Northern Territory is at the heart of the Indo-Pacific region and Australia’s defence and national security efforts. I’m excited to work with government, industry, and our partners to strengthen capability, create opportunities for Territorians, and contribute to the nation’s security.”

Mr Kiploks will commence in the role on September 8.

Originally published as Former PM senior adviser Jimmy Kiploks the new General Manager of DefenceNT