In a recent session of the Senate Committee on February 22nd, officials from the Defence Department elaborated on the proposed duration former defence personnel must wait post-retirement to gain clearance for employment with foreign entities under the military secrets legislation.

The bill, introduced in September 2023, aims to thwart efforts by hostile actors to pilfer Australian classified information. This initiative followed alarming reports indicating that the Chinese Communist Party had been recruiting former military personnel from Australia, Canada, the UK, and the United States to impart training to its armed forces.

The government’s objective is to establish a “reasonable” timeframe concerning the obsolescence of an individual’s expertise and competencies. This timeframe is crucial to ensuring that the knowledge and skills of retired defence personnel no longer pose a significant risk to national security.

The duration will be contingent upon the nature of the roles individuals held during their military tenure. Various job categories will have distinct timeframes, with some entirely exempted and others subject to shorter durations, typically around five years. For roles where knowledge retention is more enduring and integral to national security, the timeframe may extend up to 10 years.

However, it’s essential to note that exemptions do not extend to former defence personnel possessing insights into tactics, techniques, procedures, and sensitive data concerning export-controlled goods. Restrictions on such individuals remain lifelong to uphold the integrity of national security protocols.

THERE is no maritime equivalent of Sydney’s famed Parramatta Road Magic Mile of Motors, where on a whim you can buy a new or used car to suit your needs and budget.

No doubt there are mercenary Arthur Daleys about offering to move superannuated naval stock, “one careful owner, low wars, never mind the rust it’ll paint over”, but you get what you pay for.

Nor can you always requisition unneeded stock from a full inventory, especially when the need is pressing, and now.

The last time Britain “requisitioned” two almost completed ships, both paid for by and destined to serve Turkey’s navy caused such outrage Germany stepped in with a “gift” of two of its surplus-to-requirement vessels.

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There’s no fast track to acquiring vessels | Australian Defence History, Policy and Veterans Issues (targetsdown.blogspot.com)

Terry Wayne Fator is an American ventriloquist, impressionist, stand-up comedian, and singer. Born in Dallas, Texas, he developed an interest in ventriloquism from a young age, honing both this skill and his talent for singing. After initially performing with two bands, Terry Fator eventually conducted solo performances, combining ventriloquism and singing with comedy. His breakthrough came when he won the second season of America’s Got Talent, which significantly boosted his career. As a result of his success, he secured a five-year multi-million-dollar contract to headline shows in Las Vegas, Nevada. From 2009 to 2020, he headlined at the Mirage Las Vegas, and since 2021, he performs regularly at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino. Terry Fator has also used his performances and talent to contribute to charitable causes, and he consistently ranks among the world’s highest-paid comedians.

Hands up all those who thought judges were learned people who weigh evidence and make sensible, informed decisions …..

Work on Australia’s most expensive resources project has been halted because of the danger it poses to Spirit Whales. Woodside Energy Group has been ordered to halt work on a $16b gas project off the coast of Western Australia that, if completed, will power 8.5 million homes for the next 30 years. But the Federal Court ordered work to stop after hearing evidence the area was home to mythical whales. The Spirit Whales, according to Indigenous fables, tell the fish of the sea what to eat, when to mate and where to migrate. If the gas project was to go ahead, the Spirit Whales would be endangered. And if the Spirit Whales were killed, none of the creatures of the sea would know what to do.

Short of Aqua Man stepping in to save the day, the planet would be sunk. How did the Federal Court know all of this? Raelene Cooper!

Ms Cooper, or as her activist friends like to call her, the Custodian of Whale Dreaming, speaks to the Spirit Whales. And they speak to her.

Seriously.

This was in evidence presented to the Federal Court.

Apparently, the Spirit Whales aren’t thrilled about the Woodside Energy Group’s project which, coincidentally, puts the Spirit Whales and environmentalists on exactly the same page.

Whoever would have imagined?

The Environmental Defenders Office, a group that received $8m in public money to help it oppose projects benefiting the public, brought Cooper’s Spirit Whale baloney to the urgent attention of the Federal Court.

Even Nemo knows that the greenies at the EDO don’t buy the Spirit Whale crap. But that doesn’t mean they won’t manipulate Indigenous mythology and those who sprout it to stop major projects.

So, the case was put to the court of Australia. ” … but Your Honour, the Spirit Whales!”

And Judge Craig Colvin, whilst not confirming or denying that Spirit Whales existed, ruled that Woodside had a duty to consider “cultural harm” caused by their project.

Now what I think that means is that whilst absolutely no-one believes that Spirit Whales exist, it would be against the law to upset the wild fantasies of a woman who imagines she talks to whales.

Because the woman is Indigenous.

And evidently Indigenous fantasies must be indulged, as a mark of respect.

Woodside argued that they had invested significant time, energy and money liaising closely with Indigenous groups for more than a decade. And yet this was the first it had heard that Spirit Whales were blowing their lids over the project. Woodside had done all of the environmental checks and had been given clearance to begin the project.

Not so fast, ruled Judge Colvin.

He ordered Woodside to conduct a more thorough environmental assessment of the project.  In other words, work out terms with the Spirit Whales.

Oh, and Woodside were ordered to pay Ms Cooper’s costs.

1. I used to be an artist before I joined the army. Afterward, they told me I’d never be an army officer. Probably because I was always drawing fire.
2. My friend recently got promoted from captain to a higher military rank. It was a major day for him.
3. Last week, I sent my baby to the army. Weirdly, they put her in the infantry.
4. People who wear sleeveless shirts in the army are basically defending their right to bare arms.
5. If you feel like you’re not being thanked enough in the army, don’t worry about it. Cavalry officers never say tanks.
6. My instructor just told me that he never saw me at the camouflage training. I replied, “Thank you, sir!”
7. Writers should be comfortable joining the Navy. They are already familiar with magazines.
8. Brooms would make such great army officers. They can easily perform good sweeps.
9. I once heard a story about a Roman army that got famous for selling milk products. It was Legion Dairy.
10. The veteran is now a volleyball coach. He told his students that the most important skill is knowing how to serve.
11. An army general was known to retreat from a Navy fleet that was wearing sandals. He was scared of de-feet.
12. The first thing pigs learn when they join the army is ham-to-ham combat.
13. I had no idea that you can’t eat ice cream in the Air Force. Apparently, you get arrested for deserting.
14. When the commanding officer told the Emperor that they had 385 volunteers, the Lord told him to round them up. He just replied in return, “Okay. 400, my liege.”
15. During the American Civil War, on the first day of the third month of last year, both sides’ armies had to March first and then have breakfast.
16. I know a great joke based on the National Guard and Army Reserve. But it only works on one weekend of the month.
17. I served under the calmest commander of the US Navy. General Anaesthesia helped put all disputes between fellow soldiers to bed.
18. I was once in the Army, but when I came back home, I started working with animals. Now I’m a military vet.
19. My father used to work as a baker when he was serving. He used to go in all buns glazing.
20. I had a senior officer that didn’t like playing the minor scales. So I always had to tell him, “Play a flat major.”
21. A guy named Will decided that he never wanted to be a soldier. I found out it was because he once heard them say, “Fire at will!”
22. Old Macdonald’s son chose to join the army rather than do farm work. I guess now he is E.I. G.I. Joe.
23. There was once an army of drawing tools. Their commanding officer was the ruler.
24. My grandfather used to work as a mime in the Army during the world war. He doesn’t like talking about it.
25. Two PFCs were walking down the street when one of them suddenly said, “Oh! Is that a dead bird?” The second PFC got worried, looked up toward the sky, and said, “Where? I can’t see it!”
26. The soldiers had to get rid of some bugs. They did it with a raid.
27. There’s only one kind of plant that grows in a soldier’s garden. It’s called an ambush.
28. Why does the militaryhave a strict dress code for ceremonies and events? To minimize civilian casual tees.
29. How do army soldiers greet each other when they ride in helicopters? “Helo!”
30. How do the soldiers freshen their breath? With a tic attack.
31. What kind of sergeant usually carries a long stick along with them wherever they are going? The Staff Sergeant.
32. What would you call it if a soldier leaves to go to play games? A deplayment.
33. Why did the soldier bring a blanket to an active battle zone? He needed cover.
34. What would you call a soldier who makes you stay beside them at all times? The company commander.
35. What do the soldiers read whenever they get bored? Their magazines.
36. What is a soldier’s least favourite day of the year? March 4th.
37. What do you call it when two low-ranking officers are discussing? A Private conversation.
38. Which area of an army base usually needs the most cleaning up? The mess hall.
39. How do soldiers move when they want to get an orange slice? In a wedge.
40. What happened to the Air Force pilot who tried his stand-up act at a comedy club? It was the bomb!
41. What military branch is the favourite of the horses? The Neigh-vy.
42. Which officer in the army uses the bathroom the most? The lootenant.
43. What is the main similarity between the army and musical composition? They both have majors.
44. What do you call a baby that was born on an Air Force plane? Airborne.
45. What would you call an unknown army ranger who tries talking to you? Ranger Danger.
46. What would you call a soldier who’s good at caring for animals? A vet.
47. Where do soldiers get their shoes? At Boot Camp.
48. What did the man reply when his father told him, “You wanna join the navy? You can’t even swim!”? He said, “No one can fly in the Air Force either.”
49. What would you call a drill sergeant who’s polite? A Drill Sergeantlemen.
50. What would you call the Private if they get exposed? The Public.
51. How did Steve get his lungs injured when he was serving? He tried to blow up the tank.
52. What did the Colonel say when someone asked him the lowest rank in the Army? He replied, “It’s Private.”
53. Did you hear about the man that shared a rented property with another man in the army? He took the right half, and the soldier was the left tenant.
54. Have you heard that the American soldiers recently arrested a pigeon on suspicion of being a spy? It seems that it was staging a coo.
55. How do you play Air Force Bingo? A-10 … B-52 … F-16!

On his 80th birthday, former Prime Minister and Treasurer Paul Keating has used the occasion to call for a bold departure from what he perceives as Australia’s pervasive timidity across various domains. Keating’s remarks, made in an interview with The Australian Financial Review, underscore his belief that Australia must redefine itself intellectually, economically, constitutionally, and in its international relations.

Keating expresses disappointment in what he sees as a lack of self-assurance and innovation in Australia’s national psyche. He contends that the country’s reluctance to assert its own capabilities and chart its own course forward is hindering its progress. He laments the nation’s attachment to outdated structures, such as its constitutional ties with Britain and its dependence on the United States for security.

In the interview, Keating touches on a range of topics, including the evolution of Australia’s superannuation system and the need for greater representation of union-backed industry super funds on corporate boards. He criticizes high marginal tax rates as confiscatory and advocates for tax scale indexation. Keating also shares his perspective on international affairs, opining on the leadership of Joe Biden and the future relationship between Australia and Indonesia under Prabowo Subianto.

Furthermore, Keating discusses Indigenous issues, revealing his opposition to the proposed constitutional “Voice” to the Australian parliament. He suggests alternative approaches, such as a legislated representative Indigenous body, emphasizing the importance of empowering Indigenous communities to manage their own affairs.

Throughout the interview, Keating emphasizes the need for Australia to shed its timidity and embrace a more confident and proactive stance on both domestic and international fronts. He reflects on his extensive experience in public life to underscore his critique of the status quo and his vision for a more assertive and self-assured Keating Australia.

Welcome back to the Fluctus Channel. In this captivating episode, we embarked on an informative journey through the world of modern air defense technologies. We began by discussing the evolution of counter-drone strategies and delved into the sophisticated systems developed by companies like Rheinmetall, including the Skynex and Oerlikon Skyranger.

ED: I wholeheartedly support the notion of compulsory national service, having witnessed its benefits during and after the Vietnam era. Ensuring the security of our nation is paramount, yet we currently lack the necessary manpower for successful defense.

To address this gap, I propose implementing a comprehensive training system that encompasses all young 18-year-old Australians. While some may not meet the criteria for military service, they could still contribute meaningfully by engaging in voluntary roles within other essential services.

Your thoughts on this matter are valuable, and I welcome feedback via email at [email protected] Your insights could greatly assist in refining my submission.

Thank you for considering this important issue.

Ray Payne

Reinforcing Australia’s National Security: A Case for Universal National Service

By Ray Payne

In the face of escalating global uncertainties and threats to stability, the imperative to fortify Australia’s national security apparatus becomes increasingly urgent. Embracing a comprehensive approach, it is time to resurrect the concept of national service, enrolling all 18-year-old Australian citizens without exception. While this proposition may unsettle some politicians, its implementation is paramount for securing our nation’s future.

National service, however, need not be confined solely to military obligations. Recognizing diverse capabilities and inclinations, alternative avenues should be available for those who may not meet the physical criteria for military service. Among these alternatives are roles within the Bush Fire Brigade, State Emergency Service, St. John Ambulance, and Coast Guard, each serving critical functions in safeguarding communities.

Upon reaching the age of 18, following the completion of their final year of high school, all Australian citizens would be mandated to register for national service. Subsequently, they would undergo medical and fitness assessments to determine their suitability for various service branches. Those deemed fit for military duty would be integrated into Army Reserve units, committing to four years of part-time service with obligations akin to current reserve requirements, accompanied by appropriate remuneration.

Conversely, individuals ineligible for military service would be directed towards voluntary services, engaging in roles such as those aforementioned. Serving on a voluntary basis for a duration of four years, these individuals would contribute to essential emergency response and community support efforts.

Compliance with national service obligations is imperative, necessitating penalties for non-compliance. Australians who are abroad upon reaching the age of 18 would be mandated to fulfill their national service duties upon return, provided they are under 30 years of age. Those who willfully evade or fail to complete their obligations would incur a lifetime additional tax of 2% on all future tax commitments—a measure designed to uphold the integrity and fairness of the system.

The benefits of such a comprehensive national service program are manifold. For the Australian Defence Force (ADF), grappling with recruitment and retention challenges, the proliferation of reserve units would offer a surge of manpower and talent. Enhanced geographical proximity to training and deployment sites would foster stronger ties to local communities, bolstering retention rates across all ranks.

Simultaneously, volunteer services would benefit from an influx of dedicated individuals, augmenting their capacity to respond to crises and emergencies. By structuring training programs akin to reserve units, the government would ensure the competence and readiness of volunteers, facilitated by the employment of permanent training staff.

In conclusion, the reintroduction of universal national service stands as a pragmatic and indispensable measure to fortify Australia’s national security. By harnessing the collective capabilities and commitment of its citizenry, Australia can navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape with confidence, safeguarding its interests and ensuring the resilience of its communities.

The cautionary assessment from the senior analyst underscores significant vulnerabilities within the Australian Defence Force (ADF) that could potentially jeopardize Australia’s ability to defend itself in the event of a major conflict. This warning highlights several critical aspects:

1. Capability Gap: The analyst’s warning suggests a significant capability gap within the ADF. This could pertain to inadequacies in military equipment, technology, training, or overall readiness. Without the necessary resources and preparedness, the ADF may struggle to effectively respond to a large-scale military threat.
2. Strategic Vulnerabilities: The mention of the mainland being threatened indicates that the concerns extend beyond regional conflicts and encompass the possibility of a direct threat to Australia’s territorial integrity. This implies vulnerabilities in Australia’s strategic defence posture, potentially leaving key areas exposed to hostile actions.
3. Resource Allocation: The warning may also point to issues related to resource allocation and prioritization within the defence budget. If critical areas such as modernization, force readiness, or personnel training are not adequately funded or prioritized, it could undermine the ADF’s ability to respond effectively to emerging threats.
4. Alliance Dependencies: Another aspect to consider is Australia’s reliance on international alliances, particularly with the United States, for defence support. If these alliances were strained or if allies were preoccupied with their own conflicts, Australia’s ability to rely on external assistance in a time of crisis could be compromised.
5. Adversarial Advances: The warning may reflect concerns about the evolving capabilities of potential adversaries. Advancements in military technology, cyber warfare, and other domains could pose significant challenges to Australia’s traditional defence strategies, necessitating a reassessment of the country’s defence posture.
6. Strategic Planning: Finally, the warning underscores the importance of strategic planning and risk assessment within Australia’s defence establishment. It may serve as a call to action for policymakers and defence leaders to address identified weaknesses, invest in critical capabilities, and develop robust contingency plans to safeguard the nation’s security interests.

Overall, the analyst’s warning highlights the need for a comprehensive and proactive approach to national defence to ensure Australia’s ability to effectively respond to potential threats and protect its sovereignty in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.