ADF grows to largest size in 25 years
The Australian Defence Force has reached its largest strength in 25 years, with more than 8100 new recruits joining in the 2025–26 financial year. Recruitment increased across Navy, Army, and Air Force, while the separation rate fell to its lowest level in 15 years.
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| Typical Graduation Parade |
As at 1 July 2026, the ADF’s full‑time workforce exceeds 64,000 personnel, including permanent members, Gap Year participants and full‑time Reservists . Public interest remains strong, with almost 74,000 applications received this year.
The ADF is on track to meet the government’s target of 69,000 permanent personnel by the early 2030s, as outlined in the 2026 National Defence Strategy.
Compare this with the 300,000 troops the Israeli Defence Force was able to field shortly after 7 October 2023 and I wonder whether we should be talking about bringing in compulsory National Service of say one year for all youths leaving high school. It would be unpopular, but it would be an excellent way to find out how many residents would support Australia in time of war.
ADF is a Sound Employment Opportunity
Given the cost of attending university, rent, or the need to live with one's parents, a stint in the ADF is a sound opportunity for young people finding it difficult to survive in today's crazy Australia.
Apart from socialising with people one's own age, getting free accommodation, food, dental and medical care, uniforms, sports, and a salary, there is also the opportunity to travel at the ADF's expense.
Military service provides personal and technical skills that stand one in good stead forever. Also, it gives veterans a sense of having contributed to our Commonwealth, a very worthy endeavour.
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