Wellbeing of non- religious ADF personnel at risk by former recruiterIn today's rapidly evolving landscape, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is witnessing a changing demographic composition of its members. While the ADF becomes less religious, concerns are being raised about the adequacy of support for its non-religious personnel. Col Phillip Hoglin, a former top military recruiter and now a military researcher, emphasizes the need for recruiting secular alternatives to religious chaplains to safeguard the health and wellbeing of ADF personnel.
Amidst this evolving landscape, Col Phillip Hoglin, a former top military recruiter turned reservist and military researcher, has voiced his concerns regarding the wellbeing of non-religious ADF personnel. Hoglin contends that as the ADF's composition becomes less religious, there is a pressing need to augment the available support mechanisms. He notes that while religious chaplains have traditionally played a vital role in offering emotional and spiritual guidance to ADF members, there is a growing risk to the health and wellbeing of those who identify as non-religious or have different belief systems.
Currently, about two-thirds of the ADF force are not religious, representing a significant majority. However, the number of religious chaplains, particularly from pentecostal and evangelical backgrounds, has been on the rise. Ralph Estherby, a driving force behind this increase, has fought for years to establish Pentecostal chaplaincy within the ADF. He now oversees a substantial cohort of over 100 chaplains. However, the ratio of chaplains to ADF members they represent is rather lopsided. Figures released by the Department of Defence indicate that each Pentecostal chaplain serves just 15 religious ADF members on average, signaling a potential gap in available support.
The Australian Christian Churches (ACC), formerly known as Assemblies of God, has also contributed to the chaplaincy landscape. While the ACC has only 13 members, it employs 13 chaplains. The ACC is known for its beliefs in speaking in tongues, faith healing, miracles, and a traditional stance on marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Additionally, there are a small number of nondenominational Christian chaplains serving the ADF, while a significant portion of ADF members identify with this religious affiliation.
Ralph Estherby, a member of the ACC, has been instrumental in advocating for the inclusion of Pentecostal chaplains within the ADF. He views the presence of chaplains as an "amazing opportunity" to extend the church's outreach to individuals who might not otherwise have contact with a religious institution. He emphasizes the importance of chaplains in various settings, from local communities to the ADF itself.
Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential barriers non-religious ADF personnel may face when seeking help from chaplains whose beliefs and values differ from their own. Col Phillip Hoglin, who has served as a director of military recruitment, underscores the importance of providing a "secular wellbeing capability." He asserts that ignoring the changing demographic composition of the ADF and the increasing number of non-religious members could jeopardize the overall health and wellbeing of these individuals.
Meredith Doig, the president of the Rationalist Society of Australia, has raised concerns about some Christian chaplains expressing views that might be perceived as incompatible with offering nonjudgmental care. Doig highlights a 2020 defense force remuneration tribunal decision that acknowledges the need for secular officers to address mental health and wellbeing care gaps for ADF members who are reluctant to access pastoral support based on religious affiliations.
The ADF has implemented multidisciplinary support teams comprising doctors, psychologists, social workers, counselors, and religious chaplains to cater to the diverse needs of its personnel. The ADF spokesperson emphasizes that chaplains and maritime spiritual wellbeing officers respect religious and nonreligious perspectives while providing support. Moreover, alternative support services are available to ADF members who may not be comfortable seeking help from religious chaplains.
In conclusion, as the ADF continues to evolve in terms of its religious composition, there is a growing need to ensure that all members, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof, have access to appropriate and unbiased support systems. Col Phillip Hoglin's call for a "secular wellbeing capability" is a poignant reminder that the ADF's commitment to the health and wellbeing of its personnel should encompass individuals from all walks of life.
