Australia is opening up military recruitment to residents of the UK, US, Canada, and New Zealand. The move reflects the country’s struggle to fill gaps in fighting forces as it seeks to strengthen its military presence in the midst of growing regional threats. New Zealanders who are permanent residents of Australia can apply to enlist from July, while recruiting from the other countries will open in January.
“Essential to meet the nation’s security challenges through the next decade and beyond,” said Defence Minister Richard Marles, regarding the changing eligibility requirements. He further explained the “Anzac bond” between Australia and New Zealand, citing their history of fighting side-by-side in World War One. In recent years, Australia has also been forming closer ties with the UK and the US to address China’s military growth in the Indo-Pacific region, as Beijing’s actions and plans cause growing concern in Canberra.
The Australian government has aimed to increase the number of uniformed personnel by 30% within two decades, announcing A$38bn (£19.8bn; $25.4) of funding towards this goal in 2020. However, the country is currently short by around 5,000 troops and low levels of unemployment make it difficult to recruit more members. The eligibility rules for ADF recruitment will be expanded from July but potential recruits must still meet ADF entry standards and security requirements, and they must not have served in foreign militaries for two years. Additionally, these recruits must have been permanent residents of Australia for over a year and must be eligible for Australian citizenship.
The plan has yet to be met with a completely positive response. Opposition spokesman for foreign affairs, Simon Birmingham, says the government’s defence strategy could undermine confidence and morale in the defence force. He did say, however, that he is not in opposition to it. Australia, the UK, US, Canada, and New Zealand also work together in intelligence sharing through an alliance called Five Eyes, and this move could help strengthen the country’s stance against global security threats
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