In a bid to address recruitment shortages, Australia has announced plans to allow non-citizen residents, including those from Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States, to join its armed forces. Defence Minister Richard Marles stated that the looser eligibility criteria, effective from July, will permit permanent residents who have lived in Australia for 12 months to enlist.
With a sparse population of 26 million and a vast coastline, Australia aims to bolster its military capabilities amid mounting regional tensions. However, concerns persist regarding the adequacy of current personnel numbers to support the nation’s defense needs, prompting the move to expand recruitment eligibility.