EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
STATUTORY RULES 1982 NO 324
ISSUED BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
NAVAL FORCES 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 Naval Forces Regulations, made under the Naval Defence Act 1910, provide for various matters relating to the administration and discipline of the Navy.
Regulation 38 of the Regulations prescribes the reasons for which a sailor may be discharged from the Navy.
This Statutory Rule adds a new paragraph 38(1)(k) which provides that a sailor 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.