Australian Defence Force reaches largest size in 25 years

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has reached its largest size in approximately 25 years, with the total headcount of full-time and permanent members exceeding 64,000. During the 2025-26 financial year, enlistments reached a 16-year high, with more than 8,100 new personnel joining the force. This includes the highest intakes for the Air Force in 24 years, the Navy in 16 years, and the Army in 12 years.

Retention has also improved, with the rate of personnel leaving the force dropping to 7.4%, the lowest in 15 years. A key driver of this trend was a pilot program offering a Continuation Bonus, which provided eligible permanent members with payments of up to $40,000 in exchange for additional years of service. The program saw an 82% uptake rate among eligible personnel.

Defence Minister Richard Marles and Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh noted that the Albanese Government is investing $1 billion to boost military numbers and retention. This investment focuses on reforming recruitment processes, identifying skill gaps, and improving service conditions to address manpower needs amid regional geopolitical instability.