The Australian Defence Force has been struggling to meet its recruitment targets for years.

The problem is so bad that an Australian warship has been stranded at a Perth dock for years because there aren’t enough sailors to crew it.

Low unemployment, a growing awareness of the effects of war, such as PTSD, and the lack of a clear threat are all contributing factors.

So in the face of it all, how can the ADF turn things around? What happens if they don’t? And as extreme as it sounds, is there a case for compulsory national service?

Featuring:

Andrew Greene, ABC Defence Correspondent

Ben Parkinson, army veteran and engagement officer at the Australian Student Veterans Association

John Blaxland, former Australian Army Officer, Professor in Intelligence Studies, ANU