Commander of Defence's contribution to the Victorian Bushfire Clean Up

Deakin University PhD student, Brigadier Michael Arnold, combines his study with working as a Commander with the Australian Defence Force. Brigadier Arnold is currently tasked as the Commander of the Victorian-based Joint Task Force (JTF) with the bushfire crisis response. 

The ADF established the JTF to assist government agencies with the bushfire crisis response.

One of the primary tasks of the JTF is to work with Victoria Police to provide extra personnel for the search of people still reported as missing in the wake of the bushfires.  In addition, the JTF has helped the affected communities with emergency accommodation and catering, clearing roads and building fire containment lines, and bring medical including trauma counselling assistance and essential services to those affected by the crisis.

The Australian Defence Force continues to play major roles in the Victorian bushfire relief efforts following the greatest natural disaster in Australia’s history. Task was completed on 31 Mar 09.

Brigadier Arnold commenced his military career in 1978. Prior to his current appointment as Commander of the JTF, he was posted in Baghdad from October 2007 to April 2008. His previous Army Reserve appointment was as Director Army Personnel Agency, Melbourne from January 2005 to September 2007.

Brigadier Arnold’s education pathway is impressive. He is a graduate of the Australian Army Command and Staff College (Reserves), had a Bachelor of Arts in Military Studies and a Graduate Diploma in Telecommunications.  In 2003 he completed a Master of International Security Studies at Deakin University and at present he undertaking a Doctorate of Philosophy at Deakin University; his thesis relates to Australian defence policy.

Michael has also worked as a lecturer at Deakin University in the field of strategy, security and international relations.

Michael and his wife Sara have one son. His leisure interests include running and gym, golf, skiing and following cricket, soccer and AFL football.