Head Navy Engineering

Head Navy Engineering is responsible to Chief of Navy for Naval engineering and maintenance discipline upkeep, Navy safety management governance, Fleet Support Unit strategic management; and the design, implementation and upkeep of the Defence Seaworthiness Management System. The rank associated with the position is Rear Admiral (2-star).

As Head of Navy Engineering:

• set strategic direction, policies, standards and specifications that result in the delivery of seaworthy material
• articulate requirements for people, processes and organisation that support the delivery of seaworthy material
• define material certification requirements and policy
• oversee an independent function to assure the delivery of seaworthy materiel
• oversight the management and operations of the Fleet Support Unit (Australia)
• develop and promulgate guidance to ensure the wider Navy understands its role in the delivery and maintenance of seaworthy material.

As Naval Flag Administrator:

• set strategic direction, policies, standards and specifications for the Seaworthiness Management System on behalf of the Defence Seaworthiness Authority
• define requirements for people, processes and organisation that support the delivery of the outcomes of Seaworthiness Management
• define ship and submarine certification and licensing policy
• oversee an independent function to assure the effective and efficient operation of the Seaworthiness Management System
• represent Navy in the Defence Work Health & Safety Committee.

Rear Admiral Katherine Richards AM RAN was appointed Head Navy Engineering in February 2021.