As it works to bolster its military forces in response to what it claims are mounting regional threats, Australia has been grappling with a shortage of recruits.
Australian citizens of New Zealand who are permanent residents may apply to join starting in July. Beginning in the next year, applications will also be accepted from citizens of the UK, the US, and Canada.
The modifications to the eligibility conditions, according to Minister of Defense Richard Marles, are “essential to meet the nation’s security challenges through the next decade and beyond.”
Australia has been facing a recruit shortage as it attempts to increase the size of its armed forces in response to what it perceives as growing regional threats.
Beginning in July, Australian citizens who are permanent residents of New Zealand are eligible to apply. Applications from nationals of the US, Canada, and the UK will also be allowed starting in the following year.
Minister of Defense Richard Marles stated that the changes to the qualifying requirements are “essential to meet the nation’s security challenges through the next decade and beyond.”
