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Aviation Security Project Builds Strong Relationships

“Since November 2005 the Australian Government has been working closely with the Indonesian Government to strengthen aviation security,” stated Mark Vaile, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services,  when he announced the concluding phase of the Joint Indonesia-Australia Aviation Security Project (IAAP) in February.

This $1.1 million project is Australia’s largest ever aviation security capacity building activity in Indonesia.  The fifth and final phase (5 February to 6 March) of IAAP involved the implementation of 12 training courses in Bali and Jakarta. These courses were attended by Indonesian aviation security auditors and inspectors as well as security managers, supervisors and screeners from Denpasar, Jakarta and Kupang airports. 

IAAP has successfully trained over 300 aviation security personnel to International Civil Aviation Organisation standards over the past 18 months.  Co-managed in Jakarta by David Barron, Second Secretary, Department of Transport and Regional Services’ (DOTARS) and Peter McLinton, HAI Project Coordinator, IAAP has been successful due to their cooperative relationship with key stakeholders.  “This project has laid a strong foundation for future cooperation between Australia and Indonesia in aviation security,” announced Mark Vaile.

More informal bilateral relationships have also been built through the IAAP.  HAI initiated a professional development program with its key locally engaged staff member, Dian Amelia.  Dian was employed as the IAAP Office Manager, Jakarta, and visited the HAI Head Office, Canberra, to undertake a training program in project management systems and processes.  This experience gave Dian the opportunity to strengthen her relationship with HAI staff in Australia.  

Antonia Kaucz akaucz@hassall.com.au