THE landmark decision to give gay soldiers, pilots and sailors in the Australian Defence Force access to the same benefits as heterosexual couples has been ushered in with little fanfare.

But the historic decision to grant same-sex couples housing, moving, travel and leave allowances, as well as other benefits such as education assistance, has received a subdued welcome.

The Defence Gay & Lesbian Information Service (DEFGLIS), which has been lobbying for the change, said the decision would help 2-3 per cent of ADF personnel.

The decision to extend the benefits to people in "interdependent" relationships was made public through an internal ADF memo sent on Friday afternoon.

"The Government has agreed to changes to ADF policy that will extend the conditions of service which apply to member with dependents and member with dependants (separated) to include ADF personnel in interdependent relationships," the ADF memo said.

"Defence places great emphasis on ensuring its people work in an environment that is fair and inclusive, recognising that this enhances operational capability and effectiveness."

But the ADF said the changes, which are expected to take effect on December 1, did not necessarily allow compensation and superannuation benefits to flow to gay servicemen and women's partners.

"We need to ensure our forces receive comparable remuneration and allowances with the private sector to ensure that we recruit the best people," he said.

Mr McClelland said he supported the move in principle, but would wait for the formal announcement by Defence Minister Robert Hill before commenting further.

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