In early August, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles MP, announced an independently-led review that will consider the Australian Defence’s Force capabilities to meet growing strategic challenges.
It is headed by former Defence Minister, Stephen Smith, and former Defence Chief, Angus Houston, who both have expertise in defence policy.
However, their knowledge of the impact of war, especially on women and children, is more limited. As we approach the United Nations International Day of Peace on 21 September, Australians must have their say on the Australian Defence Review.
They need to hear from people like you. They must understand that any preparations to build up Australia’s war machine must ensure that equal consideration is given to how military planning will affect Australia’s future security, health, climate, and well being.
Therefore WILPF urges Australians to make their voices heard by those men in power who will make far reaching decisions about our future. Submissions are being accepted until Sunday 30 October 2022.
Send your submissions to review.submissions@defence.gov.au.