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MAJOR MICHAEL THOMAS

Former Major in the Australian Army (Retd)

Dr. Michael Thomas is a non-resident Senior Fellow with the Washington-based Center for Climate & Security where he co-leads the Indo-Pacific Program. Dr. Thomas is also a council member with the International Military Council on Climate Change. A graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy, Dr. Thomas served for 20 years in the Australian Army. His PhD research examined the security risks of climate change, and how military forces have responded to the threats posed by climate change. He has published widely on climate security and is author of The Securitisation of Climate Change (2017). Dr. Thomas has been a leader on educating security leaders regarding climate change, including his work with the ADF Global Change Initiative, the Australian Defence College, and UNSW ADFA.

Watch “Climate implications are increasing daily”

Michael Thomas’ climate & security insights

Video

This critical review is a key step to fill the major strategic gap that currently exists in Australia. It is only through understanding the risks posed by climate change that we can then mitigate these clear and present dangers.

Major Michael Thomas (RETD)

Former Major in the Australian Army

As ex-Service members and experienced practitioners of national and international security, we recognise that climate change is a fundamental threat to all Australians.

Admiral Chris Barrie (RETD)

Former Chief of the Defence Force

The first duty of Government must be the safety and security of its citizens. Today, the Government is failing to address the growing impacts of climate change and therefore failing to protect its own people.

Air Vice-Marshal John Blackburn (RETD)

Former Deputy Chief of the Royal Australian Air Force

With some of our closest allies already acting on climate security risks, Australia is being left behind. We call on the Australian Government to urgently undertake a comprehensive Whole-of-Nation Climate and Security Risk Assessment.

Cheryl Durrant

Former Director of Preparedness and Mobilisation, Australian Department of Defence

It is only through fully understanding the degree of risks posed by climate change that we can form sound solutions to match the speed and scale of the crisis.

Ian Dunlop

Former Chair of the Australian Coal Association

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