Army in the 21st Century and Restructuring the Army: A Retrospective Appraisal of Australian Military Change Management in the 1990s

Abstract

Army in the 21st Century and Restructuring the Army: A Retrospective Appraisal of Australian Military Change Management in the 1990s Abstract: Army in the 21st Century (A21) and Restructuring the Army (RTA) were two related force structure initiatives undertaken by the Australian Army in the 1990s. A21 radically proposed to abolish traditional divisional/corps structures, fielding instead independent task forces with embedded combat arms. The RTA trials tested A21 concepts over several years; yet A21/RTA was abandoned in 1999. What happened, why, and what lessons does A21/RTA offer?

This retrospective appraisal of A21/RTA is a case study of attempted transformational change in the Australian Army. The sub-thesis’ methodology features interviews with over thirty senior military, public service, academic and political leaders of this era; and applies organisational theory to interpret internal/external dynamics.

A21/RTA faced formidable strategy, resourcing and cultural challenges. However A21/RTA failed to achieve critical elements of successful change management, including: a clear, shared, credible vision; achieving early successes; providing enablers (e.g. time and resources) and supporting efforts for change; senior leadership buy-in; and political sponsorship. A21/RTA failed in technical feasibility and cultural sensitivity terms. However, A21/RTA successfully developed an evidence-based approach, an enduring legacy supporting Army’s capability resourcing in Defence’s contested budget environment. Lessons for future restructures focus leadership attention to elements critical for successful organisational change, emphasising culture. Show more