Visit our Covid-19 microsite for the latest coronavirus news, analysis and updates


Follow the latest updates of the outbreak on our timeline.


The Australian Defence Force (ADF) will deploy approximately 1,000 personnel to Victoria to help it contain the outbreak of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

The deployment was announced following a request from the Victorian government after the recent resurfacing of Covid-19 cases.

Expected to be deployed in the following days, around 850 ADF members will monitor and extend support to hotel quarantining measures.

Nearly 200 personnel will provide logistical and medical support for public testing initiatives.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Under Operation COVID-19 ASSIST, the ADF is extending customised support to authorities, to reinforce and continue the fight against the pandemic.

The additional assistance deployed to the Victorian Government will supplement existing planning support to Emergency Management Victoria and the Department of Health and Human Services.

Till date, the ADF has successfully deployed approximately 2000 personnel as part of the operation.

Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said: “Defence has been providing support to Victoria since April and I’m pleased we’re able to rapidly increase our assistance to help Victoria respond to its current Covid-19 circumstances.

“The Covid-19 pandemic requires a proactive national response and Defence is well postured to provide scalable support to states and territories.”

Led by Major General Paul Kenny, Operation COVID-19 ASSIST aims to coordinate and deliver the military aspects of ADF’s support to civilian agencies.

Recently, the Government of Australia awarded eight new contracts worth A$21m ($14m) to boost its defence industry and develop new technologies.

Under the A$640m ($444m) defence innovation programme, industry partners and research organisations can submit innovation proposals through the Defence Innovation Portal.