Defence Act 1903

The Defence Act 1903 (Cth) is an Act of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia, that acquired royal assent on 22 October 1903. It was created to allow for the naval and military defence of Australia. The Act was amended and expanded over time, to legislate for in 1911 and then repeal conscription in 1929, bring it back in 1939, and finally abolish it in 1972; to incorporate the Naval Defence Act 1910 and the Air Force Act 1923, and today governs how the Australian Defence Force operates.

Background

On 1 January 1901, the federation of the Australian Colonies to form the Commonwealth of Australia was proclaimed, with the newly in force Constitution of Australia requiring that the colonial military forces be combined under the Commonwealth.

Act

Original

The Act, as originally made, consisted of 11 parts, 124 sections, and 3 schedules.

Current

As of May 2024, the Act is divided into 25 parts, approximately 384 sections, and 1 schedule.

Administration

Part II and Part III's Division 1 covers the administrative aspects of the defence force. The rest of part III covers the requirements of service, including reservist service, and remuneration. Part IV deals with the citizenry's liability to serve within the defence forces, while part V covers the Australian Defence Force Cadets. Part VI charges the Governor–General with special powers. Part VII to IX deal with disputes and offences committed under the Act.

Amendments

See also

• Australian Army
• Military history of Australia

References