10 Apr 2007
On the 10th of April Australia pledged to significantly increase its military contribution to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. The decision was well received by the Allies. The increase clearly illustrates the enduring Australian commitment to the security, prosperity and democratic development of Afghanistan.
Approximately 400 Australian Defence Force personnel are already contributing to a Reconstruction Task Force in Oruzgan Province, working closely with Dutch forces to deliver reconstruction and community-based projects. The total Australian contribution should peak at approximately 1000 in mid-2008.
A Special Operations Task Group of about 300 personnel will shortly deploy to Oruzgan province for at least two years. It will operate in direct support of ISAF elements in Oruzgan. Its role will be to enhance provincial security by disrupting Taliban extremists' command and control and supply routes. These forces will operate under an Australian commander working within the ISAF framework.
NATO welcomes the new contribution, which underlines Australia's continuing commitment to supporting the Afghan Government’s efforts to deliver a stable future for its people.
