I am deeply concerned about the precarious state of Australia's defense preparedness in a world that is becoming increasingly unpredictable. Our nation has never been so unprepared for potential global conflicts as it is today. Australia is currently navigating through a maze of dubious alliances without the necessary skills or capabilities to produce our own defense munitions at scale. This leaves us vulnerable and unable to effectively secure our nation's future.

Historically, Australia has relied on alliances for security, assuming that this would guarantee our safety. However, it's essential that we begin to prioritize our self-reliance to safeguard our future. In the face of potential conflicts, we must make the difficult decisions now to enhance our defense capabilities and ensure our ability to self-determine our future.

Thus, I urge the Australian government to dramatically increase defense spending and consider the mobilisation of a citizen militia. By doing so, we endow ourselves with the power to negotiate mutual and beneficial relationships from a position of strength. This strategic pivot would also bolster our capacity to protect our territorial integrity, support our allies more effectively, and maintain peace in our region.

Statistically speaking, Australia's defense budget as a percentage of GDP is among the lowest when compared to other developed nations with similar economic stature. According to reports, Australia's defense budget equates to around 2% of national GDP, a figure that does not reflect the increasing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. Many other countries facing similar security pressures allocate more towards ensuring their military readiness.

To support this, I propose a combined seating of both Houses of Parliament to debate a bill with the stated purpose of dramatically increasing our defense spending to as much as 10% of GDP over the next 3 years, to increase our defense manufacturing capacities while also emphasizing skills development to create a trained militia capable of defending our national interests. This includes investing in defense technologies, capabilities, and infrastructure to stimulate economic growth while securing our defense basics from local production.

We should focus first and foremost any conscripted militia on the support roles that form the vast majority of defense needs, with volunteers only sent into harms way if at all possible. The infrastructure to house at least a million troops in conveniently located crown land near all major cities (communal living but endurable buildings) will also go a long way to solving the housing crisis and youth unemployment. Give the citizens skills and experience in the many useful support roles (techs/medics/drone/logistics/admin/etc).

Empowering ourselves with such operational readiness would significantly contribute to our regional and global standing. Ultimately, for Australia to forge a future path of fairness and strength, we need an unassailable foundation of security. I urge you to lend your support by signing this petition. Together, let's call for the urgent need for increased defense spending and citizen engagement in strategic national defense."