A strong and capable Australian Defence Force

The Government is committed to ensuring that the ADF has the resources and frameworks to deliver a strong, capable and credible ADF.

2013 Defence White Paper

The 2013 Defence White Paper (DWP) builds on the National Security Strategy and the Australia in the Asian Century White Paper and responds to changes in Australia's strategic environment since the 2009 DWP.

The DWP provides that Defence will manage its resources with the annually updated four-year Forward Estimates funding model and a subsequent six year general guidance for Defence planning purposes.

This will ensure Defence funding remains consistent with the broader economic and fiscal position.

The Government has also committed to increase Defence funding to 2 per cent of GDP when fiscal circumstances allow. This is a long term objective.

Defence Funding

This Budget provides a rising funding trajectory for Defence and more funding than was provided in the 2012‑13 Budget; $113 billion over four years, compared to $103 billion over four years provided last year.

This Budget strengthens Australia's air combat capabilities by providing $3 billion over nine years to acquire 12 new-build EA-18G Growler

electronic warfare aircraft. This will manage the gap before the Joint Strike Fighters enter operation.

Overseas Operations

The ADF's mentoring role in Afghanistan will come to an end in 2013. The Government has confirmed Australia's continuing commitment to Afghanistan.

The ADF's military role in Solomon Islands and Timor Leste will conclude in 2013. Australia will continue to support capacity building in the region.