Call for Defence Spending Boost to 3% of GDP and a ‘Balanced Force’
MEDIA RELEASE
The incoming Australian Government must immediately increase Defence spending to 2.5 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and lift it to three percent in 12 months’ time.
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) says Increasing international tensions and global instability mean that Australia must prioritise security and substantially boost Defence spending.
It must build a balanced Australian Defence Force (ADF) rather than the narrow ‘focused force’ and encourage the development of a larger Australian owned defence industry.
As one of its five key election asks, the RSL wants the Government to commit additional funding to enhancing recruitment, retention, and Defence equipment, ensuring Australia’s Defence capability can meet evolving national security needs and secure the wellbeing of those who serve.
RSL National President Greg Melick said rising instability in our region and around the world, called for an increase in Defence spending to a least 2.5 per cent of GDP now, with a view to achieving 3% of GDP within 12 months. This is in line with moves by NATO and other Allied nations.
“The ADF must be equipped, prepared and postured as a balanced and versatile force to address a range of security challenges and unforeseen threats, rather than the current approach that may leave gaps in capability,” Greg Melick said.
“The RSL also wants the incoming government to promote the development of larger Australian owned defence companies to ensure sovereign capabilities and reduce international reliance.
“It should commit to a ‘clear-eyed’ review of Australia’s Defence relationships. This should encompass the ANZUS alliance, the AUKUS security framework, the Five Eyes intelligence sharing arrangements, as well as equipment purchases”.
Greg Melick said the RSL believed a next Government should look at strengthening Australia’s traditional national security links with Five Eyes Commonwealth countries – the UK, Canada and New Zealand who share Australia’s values on the rules based order, together with placing a greater emphasis on security arrangements with our Pacific neighbours.
“The RSL calls on the Government to take a ‘people first’ approach and prioritise the health, wellbeing, and support of Defence personnel, ensuring a strong, capable, and resilient force that can meet both current and future security challenges.
“It must fully implement the Royal Commission’s recommendations to address cultural and systemic issues within the ADF, crucial for improving recruitment, retention, and the overall effectiveness of our Defence force. There must be a comprehensive approach to Defence personnel’s health including mental health and social support, to ensure they are ready for service and resilient throughout their careers, including the transition back to civilian life.”
Greg Melick says by focusing on these priorities, Australia has the opportunity to create a Defence force for today and the future, and an environment where our current and former service people are supported, healthy, and thriving—ultimately benefiting all of society.
2025 Federal Election Asks
Investing in our veterans - RSL’s Five Priority requests to candidates
As Australians prepare to go to the polls on 3 May 2025, the RSL is calling on all candidates and parties to demonstrate a shared commitment to the health and wellbeing of our veterans.
This document has been sent to political parties asking them to commit their support to these five key priority areas that will make a difference in the lives of our current and former serving ADF personnel and their families.
