EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
STATUTORY RULES 1982 NO 333
ISSUED BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
AIR FORCE REGULATIONS (AMENDMENT)
In 1981 the policy was adopted that persons would not normally be eligible for entry to the Defence Force unless they hold Australian citizenship. This policy replaced the broader criterion of British nationality.
The new policy envisages that a person who is not an Australian citizen, but who has applied for Australian citizenship, could be recruited if necessary. If citizenship were not granted to him or if he did not accept it when offered, his membership of the Defence Force would be terminated.
The Air Force Regulations, made under the Air Force Act 1923, provide for various matters relating to the administration and discipline of the Air Force.
Regulation 115 of the Regulations prescribes the reasons for which an airman may be discharged from the Air Force.
This Statutory Rule inserts a new paragraph 115(e) which provides that an airman may be discharged for the reason that he has not been granted, or has not accepted, Australian citizenship.
The Statutory Rule has effect from the date of gazettal.