Australia says it is lifting all restrictions on women in the military, making it possible for them to participate in front-line infantry units and special forces.

Defense Minister Stephen Smith said Tuesday that women's participation in military units will be based solely on their ability to pass specific physical tests. He said the change will be phased in over five years.

Most roles in Australia's 59,000-person military are already open to women, including service on submarines and as jet fighter pilots. Australia also has women in its frontline artillery units in Afghanistan.

Canada and New Zealand have already removed all gender restrictions from their military forces.