Joining
Ways you can join
You can join the ADF without prior experience or qualifications, with existing qualifications, with a part-time commitment or to get a taste of life in the ADF with a Gap Year. With so many ways to join, there’s an entry option perfect for you.
General Entry
No prior experience or qualifications are needed. You’ll be paid while you train and could receive nationally recognised training depending on your position.
Officer Entry
You'll be trained, paid to study and become capable of leading teams, mentoring others and managing complex scenarios.
Gap Year
Get an exciting taste of life in the Navy, Army or Air Force, with just a one-year commitment. You'll get paid for meaningful work, gain skills, and make lifelong friends.
Reserves (Part time)
Already have a career? Add an exciting and rewarding dimension to your life with a part-time commitment in the ADF Reserves. Reserve roles are available for General Entry and Officer Entry, so it’s best to check each job description.
Previously served
If you’ve previously served in the ADF, you can apply for the same role or choose something different and benefit from world-class training. Or for current or ex-serving members of a foreign country, a lateral transfer will help you start a new career and a new life in Australia.
Joining requirements
Joining FAQs
What is online aptitude testing?
How important is it to keep fit in the ADF?
Are there minimum age limits for joining the Navy, Army or Air Force?
How fit do I have to be to join the ADF?
What are the medical and physical fitness requirements for entry?
Do I need written references or just listed references on my application?
Are my details safe when I apply to join the ADF online?
Can I apply if I am not an Australian citizen?
Can I apply to join the Navy, Army or Air Force online?
How difficult is military training?
How do I know if I am eligible for my preferred role?
What does the recruitment process involve?
I'm not old enough to apply yet. How do I plan for my career in the Navy, Army or Air Force?
Is there a special process to apply for the Reserves?
Is the application process the same for Officer Entry and General Entry?
My application is due soon, but I don't have all the required paperwork. What should I do?
What's the age cut-off for Gap Year?
When do ADFA applications close?
What if I have physical or mental health issues?
What happens after I submit my application forms?
What is online aptitude testing?
Aptitude testing is designed to find the ideal career for you. It's a straightforward, general ability test made up of multiple-choice questions where you'll be asked to select the correct answer. Aptitude testing will be conducted as part of the Job Opportunities Assessment. To learn more, take a look at the Job Opportunities Assessment PDF.
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