The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is facing a significant recruitment crisis, with retired Lieutenant General Peter Leahy sounding the alarm over dwindling troop numbers, warning of potential risks to national security. Recruit numbers currently stand at about 5,000 annually, far below the estimated 9,000 needed to maintain adequate defense capabilities.
Leahy, speaking to 7NEWS, highlighted, “It is there if there is an emergency, but it has never been popular in Australia with the military and the public.” The government may need to reconsider conscription if it does not address this shortfall before any major conflict or invasion.
Conscription, or compulsory military service, was abolished back in 1972 during widespread anti-war protests related to Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War. Retired Army conscript Bruce Calder expressed skepticism about the feasibility of reintroducing mandatory service today, saying, “I don’t think they would appreciate it.” He underscored the necessity for the military to modernize, stating, “Automated war is going to happen to us, and this needs people in air-conditioned offices.”
With the current ADF strength hovering around 58,000, Leahy warned, “While the mechanics of recruiting are being improved, it is uncertain whether this will be enough to achieve the targets and guarantee our ability to field new capabilities.” He, along with the RSL Defence and National Security Committee, is urging leaders to adopt successful models from the United States, such as the GI Bill, which provides service members with educational benefits post-service. Leahy noted, “We’ve got to be very targeted and make sure we’re giving people what they want.”
The Ready Reserve Scheme, which offered young Australians the chance for military training before their transition to tertiary education, is also being touted as a potential solution. Through this program, recruits would serve part-time for four years, allowing them to pursue their civilian careers with military experience. “Both measures have proven very popular overseas,” Leahy remarked, advocating for their return.
The challenges the ADF faces are compounded by broader societal trends. Recent data from the Scanlon 2023 Social Cohesion Report reveal decreases in national pride and trust in government, factors contributing to fewer young Australians feeling inclined to join the military. Observers have noted cultural shifts in how generations view service; it appears there is less inclination among younger cohorts to engage with traditional concepts of patriotism and sacrifice.
Leahy's assessment suggests the promotional materials intended to recruit serve only to highlight benefits for the recruits—the focus should also showcase the larger contribution to society. “Military service is about purpose, values and loyalty. It is about service and sacrifice, and contributing to something bigger than yourself,” he explained, emphasizing the military's intrinsic values should resonate stronger with potential recruits.
Academics Robert Hoffmann and Maria Beamond pointed out two core reasons behind the recruitment difficulties: economic conditions and cultural attitudes. They noted, “One is economic – low unemployment and a perception of...better opportunities, work conditions and future prospects in the private sector.” This poses significant competition for the ADF as it struggles to sell military service against the backdrop of attractive job markets.
Other recommendations to address the recruitment crisis have included quicker and easier recruitment processes, enhancing pay and bonuses, and reducing medical requirements. There is also discourse around increasing the maximum recruitment age to widen the potential talent pool. Yet, researchers propose the most effective strategy is aligning military service aspirations with younger generations' values.
Despite efforts to raise awareness and improve recruitment strategies, military leaders understand they must also cultivate a sense of pride and connection to the national service and its responsibilities. Achieving this will demand nuanced efforts to reshape perceptions and values around service among Australians.
To safeguard its future and bolster defense capabilities, the ADF must navigate these complex societal shifts and rethink its recruitment approach to appeal to the next generation willing to serve and protect the nation.