New CDG chief confirmed

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC has announced Major General John Caligari, AM, DSC will succeed Vice Admiral Peter Jones AO, DSC, RAN as the Chief of Capability Development Group.

“Major General Caligari will bring a wealth of experience to this role. He has worked in the Capability Development Group since 2012 and was responsible for developing the current Defence Capability Plan,” Air Chief Marshal Binskin said.

Prior to joining the Capability Development Group, Major General Caligari held a number of command positions including the Deputy Commander of Australian Forces in Afghanistan and Commander 3rd Brigade. He has also completed the Harvard Business School’s Strategic Leadership course and graduated from Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth in the USA.

Major General Caligari will be promoted to Lieutenant General and assume his appointment in October.

“Capability Development Group plays an important role in identifying, assessing and reviewing the options available to meet the ADF’s capability needs,” Air Chief Marshal Binskin said.

“Major General Caligari has the right mix of tactical and strategic knowledge for the job.”

The Chief of the Defence Force also thanked Vice Admiral Jones for his outstanding contribution to the ADF over four decades.

“As Chief of Capability Development Group since 2011, Vice Admiral Jones has instigated the Capability Development Improvement Program and has overseen a range of reforms to the capability development process,” Air Chief Marshal Binskin said.

During his sea-going career, Vice Admiral Jones commanded the frigate HMAS Melbourne, and was Commander of the Australian Surface Task Group.

He was also Coalition Maritime Inception Operations Screen Commander during the 2003 Iraq War. His service also included training with the Royal Navy and exchange service with the Royal Canadian Navy.

“Vice Admiral Jones is consummate professional who has demonstrated the wisdom and character every ADF officer should seek to emulate. Vice Admiral Jones is a good friend and I wish him all the best for his retirement,” Air Chief Marshal Binskin said.