Many families in the Hawkesbury know what it’s like to watch a member of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) head off for their duties, whether it’s a disaster recovery operation, exercise, or military operation.

Last month I got the chance to take part as an observer of the Keris Woomera exercise that Australia does in partnership with Indonesia, our largest off-shore exercise.

This is not the first time I’ve taken part in the Australian Defence Force Parliamentary Program, but it is the first time with the Navy and an Army weapons unit.

The program provides insight into the complexities associated with defending Australia and its national interests, and helps us as members of Parliament understand the capabilities and activities of the ADF. As a member of the Joint Parliamentary Defence Committee, I think it’s even more important to gain insight into life serving in Defence.

What it showed me was the extraordinary skill, commitment and endurance of our sailors, soldiers and aviators, who worked in the heat and humidity as they fulfilled their duties during the exercise.

More and more Australians are choosing to join and stay in the Defence Force, with record $1 billion investment by the Albanese Government putting Defence recruitment and retention back on track.

Over the last year more people have signed up to be sailors, soldiers, aviators, and cyber and space operators in the Australian Defence Force than in the last 16 years.

During 2025-26, the ADF has grown to its largest size in a quarter of a century, with more than 8,100 new personnel expanding the full time and permanent workforce beyond 64,000.

Recruitment growth has been recorded across all three Services, with the Navy achieving its highest intake in 16 years, Army its highest intake in 12 years and Air Force its highest intake in 24 years.

Importantly, the separation rate – or number of people choosing to leave the ADF – was 7.4%, down even further from last year’s 7.9%, and the lowest it has been in 15 years.

The men and women who wear our nation’s uniform go to work every day to keep Australians safe. I thank them for their service.