Abstract Hazing, or bastardisation, has been the subject of repeated scandal in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for at least 40 years. At its most serious, as documented in the 2011 Piper Report, hazing is clearly criminal behaviour. This article uses the techniques of criminology to explore hazing as a group social practice in the ADF, and considers whether the response of the ADF to hazing can be characterised as collective denial. It is important to treat hazing patients as victims of violent crime. …

Abstract This article explores the impact of military identity and culture on the retirement and reintegration of members of Special Operations Forces (SF) into civilian life. The experience of retirement is explored through interviews with five former members of the SF. These interviews were analysed to identify the shared experience of retirement including the causes, context and consequences. The data indicated that personal attachment to the unit was heightened by key aspects of SF culture …

Abstract A diverse workforce has been identified as a critical component of Army’s future capability. However, strategies to increase the proportion of under-represented groups have only been developed for a few discrete and highly visible demographics. This article introduces the topic of religious diversity in Army by outlining the current representation, comparing this against historic and national trends and listing compelling reasons for its consideration by strategic workforce planners in the future. …

Abstract How might mixing the sexes affect the capability of small combat teams? As Australia integrates women into its combat arms, the policy challenges that sexuality presents may prove more enduring than those of gender. Objections to integration based on women’s capabilities are expected to quickly become redundant, although the masculine culture of combat units demands careful management. Hyper-masculinity can undoubtedly be hostile to women, but is a long-established way to meet the profoundly …

Abstract The role of women in the Australian Army has undergone enormous change since the 1980s, resulting in a significant increase in employment opportunities for women. This article describes the changing nature of female employment in the Australian Army and the Australian government policy reforms that have guided this change. It argues that the employment of women in the Army has been progressively shaped by strategic policy and the nature of both domestic and overseas operations and that the …

Abstract Sex, gender and sexuality have always been the subject of lively debates within and around the military — from the age-old problem of the on and off-duty sexual behaviour of servicemen to the more recent process of creating a place for women as front-line fighters. In recent years a spate of scandals has challenged the reputation and operation of the armed services. But there is another side that needs to be taken into account — increasingly, very public action is being taken in support of …

Abstract Throughout the history of the Australian Army, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women have served with distinction. During the first half of the twentieth century they served despite regulations prohibiting the enlistment of persons ‘not substantially of European origin or descent’. When they managed to skirt the rules and enlist however, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women often found military service an egalitarian experience providing education and employment …

Lost in Translation – Plight of the Embed Author known only as ‘Airman Skippy Zed’ So I take a call one Friday from a panicked guy up in HQ ‘Can you go somewhere Monday? Our Plan A bod’s just fallen through! You’ve got everything we need …’ ‘Ok, where’ve I gotta be?’ Of course the last thing Jackman said was ‘and the unit’s all ARMY.’   I am an Air Force member — yes a part of the ‘TEAM RAAF’ So while I’m working here with you expect me to make a gaffe. Maybe that’s optimistic. Unrealistic too?! But I’m …

The oath to serve your country did not include a contract for the normal luxuries and comforts enjoyed within our society. On the contrary it implied hardship, loyalty and devotion to duty regardless of rank. - Brigadier George Mansford (Retd) As Regimental Sergeant Major – Army (RSM-A), I have a unique leadership responsibility, one which I take very seriously. I am providing this article to the Australian Army Journal because I believe that there is a fundamental area of Army service that is often …

  … Chauvel Essay Prize …