The RSL Supports Minister’s Call for More Defence SpendinG
Media Release:
The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has commended comments by Defence Minister Richard Marles expressing his desire to substantially increase the lethality and strategic strike power of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) within the next five to seven years.
The RSL says Australia’s defence spending should immediately rise from the 2.11 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) projected this financial year, to at least 2.5 percent or more.
RSL National President Greg Melick said with current international instability and particularly increased tensions in the Asia Pacific region, Australia should not lose sight of the fact that the nation’s defence capabilities are grossly inadequate.
“The increase in defence spending should be just the first step in a major upgrading program,” Greg Melick said.
“Australia needs to upgrade its nuclear industry and capabilities to support and enhance the AUKUS submarine program and urgently redevelop local industries to provide the ADF with the necessary logistic reserves including ammunition and spare parts to overcome the supply chain issues clearly demonstrated by the war in Ukraine.
“Australia must also acquire more strategic reserves of fuel, ammunition, and other strategic supplies to provide an adequate safeguard in the event of a defence emergency. It is concerning that such reserves have been allowed to remain at such dangerously low levels. We also encourage the Commonwealth to further work with Australian businesses and industry on supply chain diversification and contingency planning for our key sovereign capabilities.
“Australia must recognise the significantly changing and increasingly unstable international environment and review its defence commitment accordingly.
“Minister Marles has highlighted this. The RSL fully supports his comments and intentions, and urges the Government to act without delay.”
The RSL has also called on the Government to end the ADF purchase of uniforms and other apparel from China. Defence spends up to $14m a year buying service uniforms and ceremonial clothing from China for the Australian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
“It is a time to support local manufacturing, so our service men and women can continue to wear their uniform with pride”, Greg Melick said.
The RSL stands as an apolitical patriotic organisation who is looking forward to working with the Government on policies to improve and maintain the security of our proud nation. ENDS National
Media contact:
Tony Harrison
Mobile: 0417 318 178
Email: tony@wearebright.com.au