Philip Spedding assumed the role of Defence Advocate in January 2023. He provides independent advice to the Western Australian Government and promotes the State’s Defence industry capability and capacity through effectively liaising with senior decision-makers in Canberra.
His position plays a critical role in achieving the Western Australian Government’s economic diversification agenda and ensuring that the State is awarded with all relevant naval shipbuilding, submarine sustainment and general defence support work.
With a highly distinguished career spanning over four decades in the Royal Australian Navy, Philip is the most suitable representative to achieve the Western Australian Government’s defence industry objectives.
His permanent naval service included overseas exchanges and multiple sea commands. His operational experience included fisheries and border protection, service in Northern Ireland, the former Yugoslavia and Fiji, and multiple deployments to the Middle East.
Promoted to the Navy senior leadership group as a Commodore in 2009, he held positions focused on operational planning, organisational risk, and preparedness. After transitioning from full time to reserve service in 2015, he undertook further appointments focusing on joint and combined training, capability planning and management, and infrastructure development.
Selected for promotion to Rear Admiral in 2020, Philip undertook specialist reviews into Australia’s future submarine capability requirements, and the optimal location for an East Coast submarine base.
His outstanding service and contribution to the nation and allied forces has been recognised through the award of the Medal of the Order of Australia, a Commendation for Distinguished Service, and the Distinguished Service Cross. In 2009, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his exceptional performance as a Coalition Task Group Commander during a Middle-East Region operation.
Philip formed his own consultancy business in 2020 and has since provided support to several clients across industry and academia. For three years, he also provided specialist advice on maritime sustainment infrastructure to the Defence Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group. He sits on the management and advisory boards of several defence focused companies.
In support of his clients, Philip draws upon a broad range of skills acquired during his 41 years of military service, and an extensive network across Defence, Government and industry. He is passionate about working to understand requirements, delivering innovative solutions to problems, and delivering results.
Philip and his wife Karen live in Canberra and have two adult daughters.
