Just looking a recent history, clearly Australia has been able to operate in Iraq, has been able to operate in Afghanistan at the same time, and provide a peacekeeping force in East Timor and help solve some of the problems or other island nations,” the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said. “I think Australia has clearly demonstrated the ability to lead globally.”

The Australian military is involved in a number of operations around the world. Australian soldiers are with United Nations forces in Israel and Lebanon, Australian special operations forces in Afghanistan, and Australian military units in southern Iraq and on the Multinational Force Iraq staff, Australian military officials said speaking on background. Australian ships patrol with coalition forces in the Persian Gulf, and Australia has a very active engagement program with the island nations of the Pacific.

Australian forces operated in Muthanna and Dhi Qar provinces in the southern part Iraq, Pace said. Both provinces are under the control of the Iraqi government with coalition troops outside the provinces in an overwatch role. “Things are relatively stable in those provinces. Iraqi army and police are in the lead, and that could not have happened without your forces being there,” Pace said. “I think Australia should take great pride in the contributions you have made.”

Those who criticize the Australian troop commitment as being too small are wrong, Pace said. “The fight we’re in about terrorism is not about large armies fighting large armies,” the general said. “It’s about small numbers of well-trained troops and civilians … who are reaching out to assist those in need.”

Pace called Australian special operations forces “world-class” and said American special operators appreciate working with them.

There's plenty more, if you want to read the whole thing.