eWise Blog – contributor

The recent circumnavigation of the Australian continent by foreign warships raises concerns about the nation’s ability to maintain effective surveillance. While their locations were tracked, the precise nature of their activities remained uncertain. This situation calls for a reassessment of intelligence and surveillance capabilities to ensure comprehensive monitoring and response readiness.

Second, changing geopolitical dynamics necessitate a greater degree of defence self-sufficiency. While alliances remain critical, Australia must enhance its capability to manage military contingencies independently. This requires investment in longer-range weapons and advanced intelligence, surveillance, and tracking systems.

Australia must acknowledge that its longstanding assumptions about military threats no longer hold. The belief that conflicts will remain distant has led to incremental rather than transformative increases in defence spending. Given the evolving strategic landscape, a fundamental shift in defence investment is necessary to ensure that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) can meet new, short-notice contingencies and sustain operations if circumstances deteriorate further.

The changing global landscape necessitates an urgent review of Australia’s defence planning. Traditional assumptions about extended deterrence and allied commitments are being tested. While strategic partnerships remain essential, Australia must ensure its security by developing robust self-reliance capabilities.

The ADF must reassess its priorities, particularly in relation to anti-ship missiles, drones, sea mines, uncrewed submarines, air-to-air missiles, and strike capabilities. These technologies are critical for ensuring that Australia can deter and, if necessary, respond effectively to emerging threats. Defence spending should focus on capabilities that enhance strategic deterrence rather than relying solely on large, expensive platforms.

Defence spending as a percentage of GDP has been a contentious issue. Some experts suggest increasing it from the current level of approximately 2% to 3–4%. This would require an additional $28–55 billion annually. However, rather than arbitrarily setting a target, Australia must adopt a detailed, needs-based approach, ensuring that spending directly enhances defence capabilities.

A more cost-effective approach would involve prioritising investments in advanced surveillance, targeting, and uncrewed systems. These measures would enhance defence capabilities more rapidly and affordably than purchasing additional major platforms.

The current ADF structure has limited capacity for sustained operations beyond low-intensity conflicts. Previous assumptions about force expansion no longer align with contemporary threats. A key initiative in addressing this challenge is the 2024 Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) plan, which aims to establish domestic production of advanced munitions. This initiative will enhance Australia’s ability to sustain high-technology operations and build a credible deterrent force.

Geography remains a crucial factor in Australia’s defence strategy. With vast maritime borders and critical northern approaches, the nation must be prepared to defend against potential adversaries projecting power close to its territory. The current investment in long-range strike capabilities is a step in the right direction, but more is needed to ensure comprehensive defence preparedness.

Australia must also consider alternative workforce solutions to address recruitment and retention challenges within the ADF. Options such as increased reliance on the Reserves or even some form of national service may need to be explored.

Increased defence funding must be justified through strategic assessments rather than arbitrary GDP-based targets. A well-defined conceptual framework for defence spending, aligned with national security objectives, would be more effective in securing public and governmental support for necessary investments.

Ultimately, Australia’s defence decision-making processes must be improved to ensure effectiveness in both peacetime governance and crisis scenarios. Strengthening these processes will be essential in addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving strategic environment. The time to act is now, before circumstances demand a response for which the nation is unprepared.

ED: Arrian’s book Stay Loose is due for release on 2nd April 2025 – Order your copy now.

‘Adrian candidly presents the ‘equation of service’: the challenges overcome that create feelings of personal achievement, the mateships that hold people together, and the lows that can shake your belief in self.’ – General David Hurley AC CVO DSC (Retd)

“Your past doesn’t define you—it teaches you. Every experience is a lesson, not a life sentence.”
In Stay Loose, Adrian Hodges delivers a candid reflection on three decades of service in the Australian Army, from navigating the dangers of war to the challenges beyond the battlefield.
Adrian chronicles both the highs and lows. From his battalion’s deployment to Somalia’s famine-stricken chaos—Australia’s first major overseas operation since the Vietnam War—to participating in the nation’s first lethal firefight in decades, he offers harrowing frontline insights. His memoir covers a military exchange in Malaysia, as well as service in Afghanistan and Iraq, providing an intimate view of the physical and psychological tolls faced by soldiers.
But this memoir isn’t just about combat. Adrian reflects on his struggles after leaving the Army, battling uncertainty and searching for direction. His post-military career led him to work as a court recorder on several high-profile legal cases, including the investigation into the Black Hawk helicopter crash that claimed 18 military lives. He also recounts backpacking through North Africa and the Middle East, contrasting his military service with personal discovery.
Eventually re-enlisting, Adrian’s return to operations and military exchanges weaves themes of brotherhood, resilience, and the strength found in family. Now a private military contractor in the UAE, he explores how his past shaped his future.
Stay Loose is a deeply personal journey of finding humour and catharsis in extraordinary circumstances, proving that past experiences offer lessons, not life sentences.

‘The motto of The Royal Australian Regiment is “Duty First” Adrian’s story puts life and understanding into that motto.’- General David Hurley AC CVO DSC (Retd)

In this clip from our interview, Geoff talks about the ingenuity of the Australian forces in Vietnam.

Summary of pension rates, limits and allowances

Last updated:

19 March 2025

You can find the current rates for pensions and allowances.

The rates on this page are effective from 20 March 2025.

On this page

1. Service Pension and Social Security Age Pension
2. Veteran Payment
3. Income Support Supplement
4. Veterans Supplement
5. Disability Compensation Payment rates
6. Additional Disability Compensation Payment for Specific Disabilities
7. War Widow(er)’s Pension
8. Orphan’s Pension
9. Rent Assistance
10. Remote Area Allowance
11. Family Tax Benefit
12. Recreation Transport Allowance
13. Vehicle Assistance Scheme
14. Attendant Allowance
15. Clothing Allowance
16. Veterans’ Children Education Scheme (VCES)
17. Decoration Allowance
18. Victoria Cross Allowance
19. Income limit before Service Pension and Social Security Age Pension reduces
20. Work Bonus
21. Assets limit before Service Pension and Social Security Age Pension reduces
22. Service Pension and Social Security Age Pension income cut-off limit
23. Service Pension & Social Security Age Pension assets cut-off limit
24. Income and assets cut-off limit for the Veteran Gold Card for Service pensioners
25. Income limit before ISS reduces
26. Assets limit before ISS reduces
27. Income cut-off limit for ISS pensioners
28. Assets cut-off limit for ISS pensioners
29. Income limit before Veteran Payment reduces
30. Assets limit before Veteran Payment reduces
31. Veteran Payment income cut-off limit
32. Veteran Payment assets cut-off limit
33. Income limits for student children / earnings limits for employed children
34. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card income limit
35. Deeming
36. Funeral benefits

You will find the current rates and limits for:

• Service Pension
• Social Security Age Pension
• Veteran Payment
• Income Support Supplement (ISS)
• Disability Compensation Payment
• War Widow(er)’s Pension
• all associated allowances under the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986 (VEA).

For information about payments under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA), refer to Compensation Payment Rates.

The rates quoted are fortnightly amounts unless otherwise indicated. These rates are current from 20 March 2025 to 30 June 2025. Where relevant, the rates quoted include the energy supplement.

If your pension is still assessed under the pre-20 September 2009 rules, please refer to the rates labelled as “Transition” rates and limits.

Service Pension and Social Security Age Pension

ED: Thanks to Bob Buick for today’s smile

eWise Blog – Contributor

The media is focusing on radical agitators being expelled from campuses. While this is a necessary step, the real issue runs far deeper than a handful of individuals.

The true danger lies in the indoctrination occurring in Australia’s universities, shaping the minds of future leaders, policymakers, and influencers.

What exactly is being taught in these institutions?

First, under the banner of “social justice,” students are indoctrinated with an oppressor/oppressed ideology—a Marxist framework that portrays Western civilization as the enemy.

Second, once primed to resent Australia, Israel, and the West, students are exposed to radical ideologies that glorify violent “resistance” rather than peaceful discourse. This is happening openly in universities across the country.

Some university faculty members push the narrative that the “Australian settler state” must be dismantled. They promote the idea that “resistance” justifies violence, particularly against Israel, which they claim is an extension of “Western colonialism.” While they may try to limit this rhetoric to Israel, their real aim is broader: an ideological war against Australia itself.

This is not merely about activism or academic debate. This is a national security issue. Those who incite violence and radicalize students must be removed from Australian universities immediately.

If they are foreign nationals, they must be deported. If they are Australian citizens, they should face legal consequences for inciting violence and supporting extremist groups.

The problem won’t be solved simply by removing individual agitators. The ideological foundation that allows this to spread must be dismantled. University departments that promote these radical views must be defunded. Professors who indoctrinate students into hating their own country should be permanently barred from teaching.

Australians must take back control of the education system—from primary school to university—to prevent the next generation from being radicalized against their own nation.

Discover the Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne, the U.S. Army’s first dedicated attack helicopter designed to redefine military aviation. Developed under the Advanced Aerial Fire Support System (AAFSS) program, this high-speed marvel escorted Bell UH-1 Iroquois transports with unmatched firepower. But despite stunning test flights, its complexity and costs led to cancellation. Explore the rise and fall of this iconic prototype in the dawn of attack helicopter history.

eWise blog – Contributor

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is facing a significant recruitment crisis. Currently, only 80 per cent of the 69,000 personnel needed to meet future challenges have enlisted. In response, the government has proposed allowing some foreign citizens to join to fill the shortfall.

There are two primary reasons for the current recruitment difficulties. One is economic—low unemployment and the perception of better opportunities, work conditions, and long-term prospects in the private sector. The other is cultural: a declining sense of national identity and willingness among Generation Z to serve their country, particularly within certain demographic groups.

The Need for a New Approach

Recruitment efforts must address the motivations of today’s young Australians, the primary pool of potential enlistees. Research into Generation Z, those born between 1997 and 2008, has highlighted significant differences from previous generations. Raised in a digital world dominated by social media, many in this cohort exhibit higher levels of anxiety and depression, which can be barriers to military service.

Furthermore, military careers are often perceived as detrimental to mental well-being, particularly in light of findings from the Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide. Stricter mental health entry standards may have reinforced this perception, deterring potential recruits.

Additionally, financial considerations play a crucial role in recruitment. Many younger Australians are highly aware of pay and conditions, comparing ADF salaries and benefits against those offered by private sector employers.

Waning National Pride and Its Impact

A more troubling factor in the recruitment crisis is the declining level of national pride among young Australians. Studies show a steady drop in those who identify as “very proud” of their nationality. In 1981, 70.3 per cent of Australians expressed strong national pride. By 2018, this had declined to 60.8 per cent, with only 41.6 per cent of twentysomethings feeling the same way.

Similarly, willingness to fight for Australia has dropped. In 1981, 69 per cent of Australians in their twenties said they would defend the nation, compared to 65 per cent of those over 70. By 2018, these numbers had reversed, with only 44 per cent of young Australians willing to fight, while 59 per cent of older Australians remained committed.

This shift is partially due to changing cultural narratives. Traditional patriotism and a sense of duty have been weakened, replaced by a more globalist perspective in schools and universities. The once-common belief in “my country, right or wrong” has been diluted, with historical scrutiny of military actions further eroding confidence in service.

The Moral Imperative and Gen Z Recruitment

While traditional nationalism may be on the decline, many young people are drawn to causes they perceive as morally important. The ADF’s evolving role in humanitarian efforts, disaster relief, and peacekeeping missions could serve as a strong recruitment motivator. Generation Z is deeply invested in social values such as environmental protection, diversity, and equity.

Rather than solely appealing to duty and patriotism, recruitment campaigns must also highlight opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and career advancement. Gen Z values work that aligns with their ideals and provides intrinsic rewards beyond financial incentives.

The Path Forward: Returning to Dedicated Recruiting Centres

To reverse the recruitment crisis, Defence must overhaul its approach. The recent National Defence Strategy acknowledged the need for “a fundamental transformation of Defence’s recruitment and retention system.”

Proposed reforms have included raising pay and bonuses, easing recruitment processes, reducing medical requirements, increasing the maximum recruitment age, and modernising military culture to be more appealing to younger Australians. However, one of the most crucial steps is returning to a system of dedicated Defence Recruiting Centres.

For decades, recruiting centres played a crucial role in engaging potential enlistees, offering a direct, personalised pathway to enlistment. Their closure and the outsourcing of recruitment have led to inefficiencies and reduced engagement. Reinstating these centres would allow for better targeted outreach, hands-on mentorship, and stronger connections with local communities. Face-to-face engagement is particularly important for overcoming misconceptions about military life and reinforcing the value of service.

A reinvigorated recruitment strategy must focus on a combination of patriotism, personal development, and career opportunity, reinforced by a dedicated recruitment infrastructure. By doing so, the ADF can once again become an attractive and viable career choice for young Australians, ensuring the nation remains well-defended into the future.

ED: From my inbox – Thanks to Ralph Wollmer, David Wright, Ron Norman & Ivor Scholtz

In 2025, Australia’s cities are grappling with the overwhelming effects of mass immigration, and it’s raising critical questions about the future of these urban centres.

In this video, we’ll explore 10 Australian cities that are feeling the strain of population growth and its consequences. Is the influx of immigrants making these cities unliveable, or is there hope for a better future?