The Albanese government is overhauling Australia’s Defence Force mission for the first time in 35 years.
The government on Monday released its Defense Strategic Review (DSR) — a culmination of more than six months of work by former Australian Defence Force chief Angus Houston and ex-defence minister Stephen Smith.
“My Government commissioned the Defence Strategic Review to assess whether Australia had the necessary defence capability, posture and preparedness to best defend Australia and its interests in the strategic environment we now face,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
The review was seen as a necessary measure given the current circumstances faced by the nation, with the government concluding its existing defence posture was “no longer fit for purpose”.
As part of the DSR, the government outlined six initial priorities, beginning with the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines through AUKUS to improve its deterrence capabilities.
It’s hardly surprising to hear about the nuclear-powered submarines discussion given the government outlined such plans last month.
Next, the focus will be on developing the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) ability to precisely strike targets at longer ranges and also manufacture munitions in Australia.
Thirdly, the government will improve the Defence Force’s ability to operate from the nation’s northern bases.
The government also aims to put in place plans to improve the growth and retention of its highly-skilled Defence workforce.
Lastly, the government will be looking to incorporate new technologies into ADF capability, as well as deepen its partnerships with key partners in the Indo-Pacific.
The DSR also outlined that it was vital Australia maintained a continued naval shipbuilding capability, with the government accepting that recommendation and indicating its commitment to do so.
The cost of the DSR is expected to be around $19 billion, with much of this anticipated in the budget. However, the government announced it was repurposing $7.8 billion into programs to help the government to focus on its six priorities.
“The Defence Strategic Review, and the Government’s response, is about maintaining peace, security and prosperity in our region,” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles commented.
“There are a lot of tough decisions which need to be made, but in doing so, we are making them in the best interest of our Defence Force and our nation.”
The Government also accepted the Review’s recommendation for an inaugural National Defence Strategy in 2024, updated biennially.
The Albanese Government said it would work with industry, the community and stakeholders to implement the recommendations of the review.