Air Vice-Marshal (retd) Cath Roberts has been appointed to the Defence SA Advisory Board, joining with extensive experience and knowledge in space capability analysis, project management, governance, airworthiness and safety, contracting, and diplomatic postings across Defence, government, industry and academia.
She has had a career of more than 40 years in the Royal Australian Air Force as an Aerospace Engineer, with postings as Head Aerospace Systems Division, Head of Air Force Capability and as the inaugural Commander of Defence Space Command.
“Cath will bring real insight into the needs of the Defence Force and ensuring our defence and space industry has the capability to support those requirements,” said Reg Carruthers, Defence SA Acting Chief Executive.
“Her experience in aerospace capability, capability acquisition and recently in establishing space capability in Defence will be a real asset to our existing high calibre knowledge base on the Defence SA Advisory Board. With growth of the defence and space industry workforce our current highest priority, Cath’s passion for inspiring the next generation of women to consider a career in STEM is also strongly aligned to our strategic objectives for workforce development.”
She officially started with the Defence SA Advisory Board in March 2024, for an initial two-year term.
“I have strong ties to South Australia and look forward to seeing the State grow in its contribution to our nation’s security and prosperity,” said Roberts, commenting on her appointment.
“My time in Defence has provided me with a deep knowledge of space and aviation which will complement the skills of the Defence SA Advisory Board and enhance broader growth opportunities for South Australian industry. Workforce is at the heart of growing industry capability. Growing and skilling the workforce, particularly in STEM, is a passion I look forward to continuing in my work with the Defence SA Advisory Board.”