The RSL Defence and National Security Committee is reviewing a paper submitted by independent consultant and former RAAF officer Peter Robinson, a specialist in military preparedness, mobilisation and risk. He argues that Australia's military capacity is now at a level where it's almost unable to sustain a commitment to any serious conflict.

Australia is unprepared for and lacking in appreciation of the risks of war, according to a senior experienced defence expert. This is a significant danger in the current deteriorating global strategic environment. The Australian Government must take urgent action to confront current strategic risks and ensure that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has the ability to address them.

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 RSL says Increasing international tensions and global instability mean that Australia must prioritise security and substantially boost Defence spending.