CIAO DATE: 05/2012
March 2012
Lowy Institute for International Policy
In this Policy Brief, Professor Alan Dupont argues that the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is at an inflection point and requires re-evaluation of its goals, strategy, structure, and resources as it transitions from the Afghanistan conflict. Dupont warns against repeating the mistakes of the post-Vietnam era when Australia was left with a poorly equipped defence force. He argues for a vigorous public debate about the priorities of the ADF as Australia begins to formulate a new Defence White Paper. Dupont concludes that 'Australia’s responsibilities and interests in the Melanesian world suggest that boots on the ground are likely to remain an enduring feature of ADF deployments. The next White Paper should include a clearly articulated defence strategy and give greater emphasis to working more closely with our Asian neighbours.'
Resource link: Inflection point: the Australian Defence Force after Afghanistan [PDF] - 256K