(1) Can a non-citizen ever join the Australian Defence Force (ADF); if so: (a) under what circumstances; and (b) do the same considerations apply in relation to each of the services; if not, can a non-citizen apply to join the ADF and subsequently apply for citizenship, pending a successful application.

(2) Is there any basis in Australian immigration law or immigration or defence policy for recognising non-Australian applicants to the ADF, successful or otherwise, as being in a special category or subject to particular considerations when applying for Australian citizenship.

(3) Do any of the services receive or accept people who have served in the defence forces of other countries; that is, lateral recruits.

(4) What are the labour agreement and employer nomination schemes (or similarly-titled schemes) that relate to special entry into Australia of prospective or actual recruits to the ADF.

(1) Yes. (a) If a permanent resident. (b) Yes.

(2) No.

(3) Yes.

(4) Navy - Royal Australian Navy Permanent Entry Labour Agreement.

Army - Australian Army Permanent Entry Labour Agreement.

Air Force - Royal Australian Air Force Permanent Entry Labour Agreement.