Peter Nicholson is a recognised expert on defence and national security affairs. He was one of the founding Directors of the Kokoda Foundation and has served on its Board and that of its successor, the Institute for Regional Security, a not-for-profit strategic think tank providing policy research and advice to Government and industry. In this capacity he has established a wide personal network in the national security communities of Australia, the United States, Japan, Indonesia and Europe. In addition to his extensive Defence, Royal Australian Air Force and Joint Force operational experience, he has worked in government relations and has a deep understanding of the Federal and State governments at the parliamentary and official levels. He is an experienced company director and has served on a variety of not-for-profit and Government boards. He has a thorough knowledge of the Defence industry sector and of advanced systems, technologies and processes associated with this part of the Australian economy.