By Craig Thomas
•
March 5, 2025
PeopleIN is championing an initiative that would support the Australian Government in expanding ADF recruitment eligibility to Pacific Islanders - strengthening defence ties and workforce capability. Our proposal has been submitted and we are actively engaging in discussions across multiple levels of government to explore the feasibility of this initiative. We have provided a strategic blueprint and pathway case study that outlines how this expansion could be implemented effectively. Drawing on our expertise as Australia’s largest employment provider under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, we offer a sustainable recruitment model built on proven processes and sovereign capability. KEY COMPONENTS OF OUR STRATEGY - Co-designing recruitment pathways with Pacific governments to secure their support. - Benchmarking against 5-Eyes nations to implement best-practice solutions and mitigate risks. - Launching a Pilot Program with PNG, targeting long-term benefits for both countries. - Drawing on global military recruitment expertise, including British Gurkha and ADF remote testing models. How it works - Pacific Islanders would serve in combat and non-combat roles (engineering, logistics, mechanical trades, etc.). - Service terms could be four years, with an option to return home with new skills or continue serving with a pathway to citizenship. - After service, they would then return home with new skills and experience that contribute to local economic development. - Recruitment standards would be calibrated for optimal enlistment rates, ensuring readiness across all three ADF services. In developing this recruiting strategy, PeopleIN has also extensively considered and developed plans to mitigate risks, including: - Fast-tracking medical, psychological, and security screening to eliminate known ADF recruitment bottlenecks. - Maximising enrolment through targeted marketing and engagement. - Ensuring cultural support and preventing ‘brain drain’ for a sustainable pipeline. Next steps We’ve delivered our recommendations to the JSCFADT (Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trad) inquiry and Australian Government’s pre-budget submission, urging a 2025 business case and implementation plan in partnership with Defence and industry stakeholders. PeopleIN is not just advising - we’re building the framework to make this happen.
