Appointment of Special Adviser

Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin (Rtd) will serve as Special Adviser to the Australian Government on Israel's response to the Israel Defense Forces strikes which killed Zomi Frankcom, and six of her World Central Kitchen colleagues.

Air Chief Marshal Binskin served as Chief of the Australian Defence Force from 2014 to 2018, and prior to that, as Vice Chief of the Defence Force, and Chief of Air Force. In 2020, he Chaired the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements and he is currently Chair of the Civil Aviation Authority and the Pacific Security College.

His experience and expertise mean ACM Binskin is eminently qualified to provide the Australian Government advice on the sufficiency and appropriateness of steps taken by the Israeli Government.

ACM Binskin will engage with Israel and the Israel Defense Forces on the response to the attack which killed Zomi and her colleagues. Australia has made clear to the Israeli Government our expectation and trust that this engagement will be facilitated.

This work will include examination of:

• Arrangements for the investigation of this incident.
• IDF policies and procedures for operational incidents.
• Measures taken to hold those responsible to account.
• If further investigation is warranted.
• Measures adopted to prevent such incidents happening again.

The Special Adviser will provide advice to the Australian Government regarding any further representations or actions that could be taken to ensure a full and transparent investigation and to hold those responsible to account.

The Australian Government has been clear that we expect full accountability for these deaths. The appointment of ACM Binskin will ensure the family of Zomi Frankcom, and the Australian people can have confidence in this process.