Australia could begin troop drawdown next month

AUSTRALIA could begin reducing its forces in Afghanistan as early as next month, soldiers serving there have been told.

The Sydney Morning Herald revealed yesterday that the Australian Defence Force had drawn up plans for a reduction of personnel this year. Several Defence sources said it will also hand over eight of its 11 bases in Oruzgan province to Afghan National Army soldiers.

Sources yesterday stood by their assertions, adding that a small number of personnel are likely to be withdrawn from Afghanistan next month.

Read full story at SMH