Canada’s new government is putting billions into rebuilding and strengthening the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). In June, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced more than $9 billion to give the military the tools and support they need to protect the country and meet commitments around the world.
A big part of this plan is focused on the people who serve. Over the last 30 years, demands on the CAF have grown, but their pay and resources haven’t kept up. These members protect Canada’s borders, keep Canadians safe, and work with our allies — and now their pay will better match their responsibilities.
Today, the Prime Minister announced the largest pay raise for CAF members in a generation. This includes:
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Base pay increases, retroactive to April 1, 2025: 8% more for colonels and higher ranks, 13% more for lieutenant-colonels and lower ranks, and 20% more for new privates in the Regular Force.
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A new Military Service Pay benefit that increases pay based on how long someone has served.
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Extra pay programs to be introduced over the next year, including help for members who move often, extra pay for those training for combat, and more money for those helping in natural disasters.
These raises are meant to help the military recruit new members, keep experienced ones, and make sure they are ready for any challenge.
The government says this is part of a bigger defence plan to meet NATO’s spending target of 2% of GDP this year and reach 5% by 2035. The plan also includes modernizing military equipment, growing Canada’s defence industry, building infrastructure that can be used for both military and civilian purposes, and strengthening ties with allies.
By investing in the CAF, the government says it will also boost Canada’s economy, create good jobs, and make sure the country can protect its people and interests in the years ahead.
