Deakin Centre for Future Defence and National Security
Bolstering Australia’s national security through education and research
About the Centre
The Deakin Centre for Future Defence and National Security (the Centre) strengthens Australia’s national security capabilities through future-focused research and learning programs delivered by leading practitioners.
We align our work with national priorities to tackle the strategic challenges shaping Australia’s future and global relationships. Our studies span issues ranging from the character of war to economic statecraft in the Indo-Pacific.
Strengthening and supporting Australia’s defence through education and research
Through interdisciplinary collaboration with institutional partners in Australia and around the world, we produce high-impact insights that sharpen Australia’s intellectual edge and secure our common future.
Beyond research, we empower the sector’s leaders through innovative, evidence-backed learning programs delivered in partnership with established institutions.
Supporting a strategic, ethical and resilient defence force
An interview with Professor Michael Rainsborough and Associate Professor Michael Hatherell on the work of the Deakin Centre for Future Defence and National Security, covering research, education and strategic focus areas.
The Centre ensures that Australia has access to national security and defence experts who are at the leading edge of their respective fields.
Director, Deakin Centre for Future Defence and National Security
Our courses
Our courses include the Master of National Security and Strategy, and Master of Military and Defence Studies. Our aim is to strengthen and support Australia’s defence through education.
Our research areas
Our work informs defence education and policy on a national scale, allowing us to enhance Australia's preparedness in the face of evolving security risks. We conduct critical research of national significance through four research domains.
National and defence strategy
We examine the theory and practice of strategy and leadership, refining their application to ensure the effective use of national power.
Global and regional security
We analyse Chinese foreign policy, cyber conflict and peacekeeping in Asia, refining strategies to strengthen Australia’s position in a changing strategic environment.
The character of war and military history
We explore how warfare has evolved across technological, organisational, human and ethical dimensions.
Professional military education and wargaming
We transform military education to sharpen Australia’s intellectual edge and prepare for emerging security threats.
Our people
Our research and education programs are led by an interdisciplinary team with decades of combined expertise across a range of military, political and human rights issues. Our leaders are:
- Director, Michael Rainsborough, Professor of Strategic Theory
- Deputy Director, Michael Hatherell, Associate Professor of International Relations
- Head of Teaching and Learning, Michael Finch, Associate Professor, History of War and Strategy
- Centre Manager, Helen Andrew.
Our monthly publication
Signal is a monthly publication offering concise, timely analysis of contemporary strategic, national security and defence issues. It showcases insights from Centre staff and contributors across academia, policy and the public service.
Edited by Associate Professor Michael Clarke, Dr Claire Yorke and Associate Professor Michael Hatherell.
Contact us
Stay in touch to hear more about our news, research programs and more. Have a question? Get in touch with the team.
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