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NATO’s chief, Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, urged Western entities to prepare for an unpredictable era, emphasizing the need for a warfighting transformation within the alliance. In a two-day meeting of defense chiefs in Brussels, he highlighted the shift from a time of abundance and predictability to an era where anything can happen, stressing the importance of focusing on effectiveness.

Bauer’s call for adaptation follows Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, prompting a shift in mindset towards expecting the unexpected and prioritizing effectiveness. Amidst political disagreements in the United States and the European Union causing delays in military aid, Bauer assured NATO’s ongoing support for Ukraine, emphasizing the global significance of the conflict’s outcome.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed concerns about Western hesitation potentially prolonging the conflict, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized EU allies for insufficient support to Kyiv. Despite challenges, Scholz expressed confidence in the EU approving a 50 billion-euro aid package for Ukraine at an upcoming emergency summit on Feb. 1, following a previous setback in December due to opposition from Hungary.

Australia is conspicuously lagging in Defence recruitment, with the gap widening annually. The Australian Defence Force and defence industry grapple with substantial workforce challenges, as highlighted in the recent Defence Strategic Review (DSR). The DSR advocates for expediting recruitment processes, aiming for days rather than months, and proposes alterations to the recruitment framework. Additionally, it suggests a comprehensive review of ADF Reserves by 2025 and contemplates reintroducing a Ready Reserve Scheme.

Despite a federal target to increase armed forces to 80,000 personnel by 2040, doubts arise about the nation’s readiness to engage in an Indo-Pacific conflict. The prevailing “she’ll be right” attitude, reliance on colonial powers, and historical isolation from conflicts hinder preparedness. A survey reveals a lack of collective spirit, with 46% inclined to stay and fight, while 28% would leave in a crisis.

Moreover, Australia’s disinterest in defence is compounded by decades of political opposition to civilian defence policies, stringent firearms legislation, and restrictions on combat-style sports. This has resulted in a low rate of licensed gun owners (3.41 per 100 people), limiting the pool of individuals familiar with military skills.

Comparatively, other nations in the Indo-Pacific and Europe successfully implement compulsory military service. Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, and Finland have models ensuring citizens’ participation in defence. In contrast, China and Russia utilize state-run education programs and conscription to boost military recruitment significantly.

Recent developments in China and Russia highlight their commitment to patriotic education, blending ideology, history, culture, and military training in schools and universities. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility and respect for weapons, contributing to a society more amenable to military service.

In conclusion, Australia faces a widening gap in Defence recruitment, hindered by cultural attitudes, legislative restrictions, and a lack of compulsory service. Addressing these issues is crucial to building a robust defence network in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.

See the ENTIRE collection inside The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum in this walking tour!

2 Skyrail Drive, Cairns, Smithfield Queensland 4878