Chris Barrie

Admiral Chris Barrie AC (Retd) is a leading advocate for climate security, emphasising its critical impact on national and global defense and promoting urgent climate action.

Admiral Chris Barrie AC (Retd) is a highly respected Australian naval officer whose distinguished career spans over four decades of service in the Royal Australian Navy. Beginning as a cadet midshipman in 1961, he served in key operational roles, including deployments during the Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation and the Vietnam War. Rising through the ranks, Barrie held numerous leadership positions such as Commanding Officer of HMAS Stuart, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, and Vice Chief of the Defence Force. In 1998, he was appointed Chief of the Defence Force, leading the Australian Defence Force through critical operations including the East Timor intervention and security preparations for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

Since retiring in 2002, Admiral Barrie has been an influential voice on climate security, emphasising the profound implications of climate change for national and global security. He has contributed to academic and defense institutions globally and co-authored influential reports highlighting the security risks posed by climate change. As chair of PTSD Australia New Zealand and a member of the Australian Security Leaders Climate Group, he advocates for both mental health support for veterans and urgent climate-related security initiatives. His exemplary service has earned him high honors, including Companion of the Order of Australia and international military awards, underscoring his lasting impact on Australia’s defense and security landscape.