Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester attended the event in Victoria and said he was impressed by both the Australians and visitors.

“I had the privilege to observe an impressive demonstration of Army expertise in a challenging, rigorous and hard fought competition, and witness some of the best combat marksmen in the world," Minister Chester said.

“Puckapunyal provides an outstanding facility and the event helps to improve our defence force capability and international relationships. This event is an exceptional demonstration of combat shooting techniques, understanding of weapon training and small arms practices."

This year’s AASAM built on 2017 range practices, focusing on combat shooting in a contemporary operational environment, including night shooting.

During the visit, Mr Chester toured the AASAM ranges and met with competitors from both Australia and abroad.

"The international competitors from many armies across the world make an invaluable contribution to the standard of competition and professionalism of AASAM," the minister said.

"AASAM provides armies the opportunity to build new friendships among some of the finest military marksmen around the world."