Residents of Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast will be approached for their perceptions about the socio-economic impact of defence force activity.

CQU's Population Research Laboratory will telephone survey a random sample of residents during the last week of September.

The researchers will also survey defence force personnel visiting from the United States and other parts of Australia, as well as those based in Rockhampton. They have already gathered data about visits by Singaporean forces.

Associate Professor Daniela Stehlik, from the Faculty of Arts, Health & Sciences, said results of the independent survey and associated focus groups would be compiled and supplied to the Australian Defence Forces in early 2004, before being released to the public.

Assoc Prof Stehlik said the research project aimed to cross-reference perspectives of local residents, defence force personnel, defence contractors, businesses and local government representatives.

"We are keen to check perceptions about where the military personnel go, what they spend money on and what impacts they have on the community," she said.