ADF Gap Year
What is an ADF Gap Year?
If you're 17-24 years old and interested in experiencing the Navy, Army or Air Force without making a long-term commitment, an ADF Gap Year is a great option.
It’s a truly unique opportunity to grow, train, travel, get paid, get a feel for a career in the ADF, and gain skills for life.
Gap Year Benefits
During an ADF Gap Year, you’ll grow and develop in a dynamic, supportive and people-focused environment.
Gap Year stories
I was really confused at first when I finished school, but I saw the Gap Year program as a beautiful way to see what the Navy’s really like.
It gave me the opportunity to experience something different. Gap Year is great for anyone looking for a bit of an adventure.
I wasn’t sure if Defence was going to be for me which is why I chose Gap Year and now, having done Gap Year I am confident with the decision to stay.
What an ADF Gap Year is like
In your 12 months you will:
- start with Initial Military Training (IMT) where you learn the fundamentals
- complete training courses in your chosen role
- take part in a variety of domestic exercises and operations
- gain valuable work and life experience
- make friends to last a lifetime
- make a decision on your future in the ADF.
Applying for Gap Year
Eligibility
To ensure your ADF Gap Year application is successful, you must:
- be an Australian citizen
- be between 17 and 24 years of age at the time of your enlistment or appointment
- meet the educational requirements of the role you are applying for
- meet the necessary medical and physical requirements and pass a Pre-entry Fitness Assessment (PFA) if required for your chosen job role - see our Health & Fitness page.
In addition, a high ATAR or high-ranking subjects will give you a competitive advantage.
Application process
Applying for ADF Gap Year involves the same recruitment process as all roles.
- Choose a role.
There are a range of roles across Navy, Army and Air Force.
- Apply online.
There’s no commitment at this stage.
- Wait to hear.
We’ll contact you for an informal chat.
School visits
To get a better idea of what an ADF Gap Year is like, organise a school visit. Serving members will be happy to give a presentation about what to expect during an ADF Gap Year.
To organise a visit, contact:
- New South Wales / Australian Capital Territory: CPTNSW@adfcareers.gov.au
- Tasmania: CPTTAS@adfcareers.gov.au
- Victoria: CPTVIC@adfcareers.gov.au
- South Australia: CPTSA@adfcareers.gov.au
- Southern Queensland: CPTQLD@adfcareers.gov.au
- Northern Territory: CPTNT@adfcareers.gov.au
- Northern Queensland: CPTTownsville@adfcareers.gov.au
- Western Australia: CPTWA@adfcareers.gov.au
