I would say it's a lifestyle issue. In the RAAF and Army you spend a lot more time at home. In the RAN you can be posted to a ship for 2-3 years and spend 6 months at a time at sea.
Mate you are mistaken, as I am away for about 10 months of the year at the moment as an Army Pilot. That does not even include the years that I have been deployed overseas - 3 times in the last 3 years. Yes we do not usually deploy for the length of time that the RAN do (unless it on a OP deployment) we are only away for 2-6 weeks at a time but then we are home for only a week before we go again. But we would definatly be away for the same time if not longer as the RAN nowadays.
Now dont get me wrong I am not complaining - I love it, and I am married with Kids, but supporting my unit and capability means so much to me.
My personal opion and circumstances.
the Dog