War Games and Ladders: Australia's Unusual Defence Spending
Australian taxpayers are funding a series of unexpected government purchases, including war-themed board games, ladders, and video game-based learning programmes, according to recently revealed procurement records.
The Department of Defence has spent $52,123.50 on a contract with US-based company The Dietz Foundation to supply war-themed board games, procurement data published on AusTender shows.
A Defence spokesperson confirmed the purchase to the Daily Mail, explaining that approximately 650 copies of the war-game 'Littoral Commander: Indo-Pacific' were acquired for use as practical training tools.
'Wargaming is an easily accessible alternative to simulation hardware that enhances tactical decision-making, threat literacy and readiness,' the spokesperson stated.
Broader Training Initiative and Other Questionable Spending
The board games form part of a wider initiative by the Australian Defence Force's Professional Wargaming Guild, which aims to 'connect like-minded professional gamers across Defence and the national security environment'.
Meanwhile, Services Australia has spent $14,234.94 on ladders since April, according to separate AusTender records. The tender was awarded to SSO Handling & Storage for Bailey Step Ladders, which typically retail for between $219 and $1,590 depending on the model.
In another surprising expenditure, The Department of Industry, Science and Resources signed a $13,200 contract with Eduelfie Pty Ltd to deliver immersive learning experiences using the popular computer game Minecraft.
The department confirmed the programme uses custom educational environments, despite standard subscriptions typically costing users just $6 per month.
Spending Criticisms and Government Defence
These spending revelations emerge just months after a defence department branch faced criticism for publishing a cookery book. The Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Group (GWEO) released 'The Taste of Harmony Cookbook' in March, featuring recipes reflecting workforce diversity.
Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Michaelia Cash condemned the decision at the time, stating: 'We are in uncertain global times. I would have thought that Australians want all of our military's efforts to focus on defending our nation… not to write a cookbook.'
The funding decisions surface as concerns mount about government expenditure. Recent ABS data revealed public service salaries rose 7.6% in the last financial year, more than double the 3.7% increase in the private sector.
Finance Minister Katy Gallagher has defended the government's approach, saying Labour is reducing reliance on external consultants by 'boosting the public service to ensure proper resourcing and improved service outcomes'.
However, Commonwealth employment climbed 5.6% last quarter to 385,900 workers, while wages soared 9.5% to $40.9billion - a $3.6billion overshoot compared to original forecasts.
The Opposition has warned that national debt could hit $1 trillion by 2026 if spending continues unchecked, with Opposition Leader Sussan Ley claiming taxpayers are paying $50,000 in interest every minute.
