Ms GAMBARO —My question is addressed to the Minister for Defence Industry, Science and Personnel. Have there been any improvements in trends in Australian Defence Force recruiting over the last 12 months?

Mr Leo McLeay —Not since Bronnie became the minister.

Ms GAMBARO —And what are the major reasons behind this improvement and what are the trends for the future?

Mrs BISHOP —I do indeed thank the member for her question. Perhaps I can say I thank the member for Watson for his interjection because, to put it in a nutshell, since we did take over government from you lot recruitment rates are up. Recruiting trends are such that, with regard to ADFA, for instance, we have had the best result in years. For the first time over 400 new cadets were enlisted because we finally put to death that dreadful Price report which was so damaging to the way that people viewed their prospective careers.

Not only are the permanent forces seeing an improvement in their recruiting but I see that general entry targets for all the services are being met. We do still have some problems, I have to admit, with doctors, dentists and engineers for Air Force, and air defence officers and navigators, but we have policies in place to address those.

Mr Adams interjecting—

Mr SPEAKER —I warn the member for Lyons.

Mrs BISHOP —Also of importance is that our reserve enlistments are up. For the first time for this year we have seen an improvement in reserve recruiting where the army reserve, in particular, is now 5,270, which is an increase of 1,100 over last year's realised figures.

I said right at the beginning that it is important to note that the change in government has made a big difference, because the defence forces realise that this government does support them. The ministers support them and, more particularly, the Prime Minister supports them, and they recognise this as being a good career for them.

There is another effort on their own behalf which, I am sure, will boost recruiting as well, and that was the magnificent effort of the air force and the navy in the rescue in the Great Southern Ocean which must have an influence for the future. Those men and women were able to show that they are efficient and professional and that, indeed, a career in the ADF is an excellent one for those people who find satisfaction in giving service.