A rule barring recruits who admit to past use of illicit drugs from joining the Australian military may be dropped in a bid to meet recruiting targets, Reuters reported March 14.

Brendan Nelson, Australia's Defense Minister, said that a recruit's character and ability should be more important than any past drug indiscretions. He noted that the current rules punish those who answer truthfully when asked about drugs, but rewards those who lie. 

"I can say no to that (question) myself, but the reality is about 40-45 percent of the adult population have (tried drugs)," Nelson said.

A tight labor market and plans to expand the military have led Australia to consider new ways to drive up recruiting.