In an era of strategic uncertainty in the world and in Australia’s region, marked by changing power balances, North Korean nuclear and missile provocations, and violent extremism, new questions have arisen about the best ways to ensure stability and security.

In this public seminar, Admiral Scott Swift will discuss the forces that influence stability in the Indo-Pacific and the role of allied naval forces in navigating change and uncertainty. He will anchor long-held norms such as a rules-based global order, peaceful settlement of disputes and freedom of navigation in the emerging regional order.

Admiral Scott H Swift was promoted to Admiral and assumed command of the US Pacific Fleet on May 27, 2015. He is the 35th commander since the Fleet was established in February 1941 with headquarters at Pearl Harbour, Hawaii. Admiral Swift attended San Diego State University and received his commission in 1979 through the Aviation Reserve Officer Candidate program. He received his Master’s degree from the Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island.

Admiral Swift’s operational assignments include: Attack Squadron (VA) 94; VA-97; Carrier Air Wing 11 staff; Commander, Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 97; Commander, Carrier Air Wing 14; Deputy Commander, Naval Forces, U.S. Central Command; Commander, Carrier Strike Group 9; and Commander, US 7th Fleet. During those tours he participated in combat Operations Praying Mantis, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. His shore tour assignments include: VA-122; Naval War College; Commander of Strike Fighter Weapons School, Pacific; F/A-18 requirements officer, OPNAV; Commander, VFA-122; Officer of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics staff; and Director of Operations, US Pacific Command.
Prior to assuming command at US Pacific Fleet, he was assigned to the Pentagon as the Director, Navy Staff. Admiral Swift has been recognised as the Commander, Naval Air Forces, US Pacific Fleet Landing Signal Officer of the Year; was presented the Commander Michael G. Hoff Award as the U.S. Pacific Fleet Attack Aviator of the Year; and is entitled to wear the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, and Air Medal with Combat V, along with various other personal, unit and service awards.