A RAAF Association Foundation
The Foundation is named after Sir Richard Williams, who in World War I was the Australian Army's outstanding air combat commander; and who in 1921 became the first chief of the newly-formed Royal Australian Air Force. Williams is widely acknowledged as Australia's pre-eminent military airman.
About the Williams Foundation
The Williams Foundation is an independent research organisation whose purpose is to promote the development and effective implementation of National Security and Defence policies specific to Australia's unique geopolitical environment and values.
Objective
The Foundation aims to strengthen Australia's national security by advocating the need for forward-looking policies and promoting constructive debate regarding the implementation of such policies.
Operational Plan
It is the Foundation's intention to be a leading and influential voice in the Australian defence debate. It will do this by:
- emphasising the paramount importance of shaping Australia's strategic environment;
- contributing to the public debate regarding national security policy and the issues related to the effective, integrated, implementation of such policies in a complex and changing environment; and
- stimulating debate by commissioning research, publishing papers, hosting conferences, meeting with senior officials and industry representatives, and conducting select-invitation workshops.
Affiliations and Membership
The Williams Foundation conducts its operations independently and has no political or industry ties. It is affiliated with the RAAF Association, which has more than 8300 members nation-wide.
The Foundation's activities are directed by its Board. The Board welcomes participation from the broad cross-section of the Australian community. Individuals or groups wishing to comment on issues relevant to the Foundation's objectives are encouraged to contact the Board.
The Board comprises eminent aerospace leaders and security strategists, as follows:
- Air Marshal E.J. McCormack AO (Retd) (Chair)
- Dr Alan Stephens OAM (Deputy Chair)
- Air Marshal I.B. Gration AO AFC (Retd)
- Rear Admiral R. Gates AO CSM RAN (Retd)
- Air Vice-Marshal J. Blackburn AO (Retd)
- Air Vice-Marshal B. O'Loghlin AO (Retd)
- Air Vice-Marshal R.K. McLennan AO (Retd)
- Major General I. Gordon AO (Retd)
- Wing Commander L.J. Halvorson MBE (Retd) (Exec Off)
Funding and Sponsorship
The Foundation is an independently funded, not-for-profit institution. The Board invites sponsorship from organisations or individuals wishing to contribute constructively to a forward-looking Australian defence policy. Sponsors will be acknowledged in the Foundation's publications and media releases.
Management, Organisation, and Financial Arrangements
The Foundation is managed by the Board. No Board member will receive any remuneration from the Foundation's accounts. Consultants may be engaged on a commercial basis as required.
Administrative services are provided by the RAAF Association.