We're running out of soldiers

(c) Defence Department

The Defence Department says there won’t be enough soldiers available by the year 2030.

The aim is to have 100,000 ready at any time – which actually means having 140,000 people under arms. 

But it’s becoming unpopular. More and more are getting medical exemptions or choosing community service instead. 

Although there are more women choosing to join the army - at just over 1,700, it's not nearly enough to fill the gaps. 

The Federal Council is mulling the possibility of making service compulsory for women as well.

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