WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

Training

ADF training is world renowned and, in some cases, can lead to nationally recognised qualifications. There are opportunities for continued career development including:

• additional training in the chosen field
• tertiary study in specialist areas
• specialist training in new fields
• promotion courses preparing personnel for the responsibilities of higher rank.

The skills and knowledge gained are invaluable to both military careers and civilian careers down the track.

Education

There are multiple ways to gain a world-class education with the ADF. For example, students can apply for the Australia Defence Force Academy (ADFA) where they’ll be paid to study, graduate Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)-debt free and walk straight into a job on graduation. Or if they’re already studying a relevant degree or have accepted a relevant university offer, they could get the remaining costs covered with Defence University Sponsorship (DUS) and be paid to complete their degree. Or for those who already have a degree, there are plenty of opportunities to undertake additional study and career development.

Trades

The ADF offers an extraordinary variety of trade careers. From electronics, mechanics and carpentry to cookery and plumbing, every role comes with: 

• job security
• a great salary plus benefits
• a supportive team environment
• exciting new experiences
• the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications.

Opportunities

As well as job security, a competitive salary package and generous superannuation, the ADF offers the following opportunities:

• working with the latest technology, equipment and tools
• being paid to study, whether learning a trade, having a degree course sponsored, or expanding their professional skills and knowledge
• world-class leadership, life skills and vocational training that's transferable to civilian careers
• clearly defined career paths with opportunities for progression and role expansion
• potential for travel throughout Australia and overseas
• a supportive team environment that nurtures lifelong friendships
• being paid to keep fit and participate in a variety of sports
• doing a job that makes a difference.

Challenges

Working in the ADF can be demanding in ways rarely experienced in civilian life, such as:

• a regimented lifestyle where high levels of discipline are essential
• at times, restrictions in movement and lifestyle flexibility
• the need to maintain high standards of appearance and behaviour
• operational service in challenging and potentially dangerous environments
• time away from family and friends, sometimes for long periods
• changes in location with its effect on family and social life.

General non-technical

For more general roles and career opportunities.

• Choose from roles in administration, communications, logistics and more
• Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent) education required with passes in English and Maths
• Some roles require a pass in Year 10 Maths and Science, or passes in Year 11 (or equivalent) and above.

Technical and trade apprenticeships

For those seeking nationally recognised trade training to undertake hands-on tasks.

• Choose from roles in aviation, mechanical, communications, submarine and more
• Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent) required with passes in English, Maths, Science and one other subject
• Some trade roles also require Science with a Physics component
• Be paid while you learn trade skills.

Officer Entry

At an ADF training facility, they’ll be trained, paid to study, and become capable of leading teams, mentoring others and managing complex scenarios.

Does this sound like someone you know?

• Ready to start earning a good wage
• Is driven, ambitious and keen to learn
• Demonstrates leadership or mentoring qualities.

Navy Officer training

Initial and leadership training as a Navy Officer.

• Train at the Royal Australian Naval College (RANC), HMAS Creswell in Jervis Bay, NSW, with or without a degree
• Receive world-class leadership training, skills, knowledge and values.

Army Officer training

Initial and leadership training as an Army Officer.

• Train at the Royal Military College - Duntroon (RMC) in Canberra, ACT, with or without a degree
• Receive world-class leadership training, skills, knowledge and values.

Air Force Officer training

Initial and leadership training to become an Air Force Officer.

• Train at the Officers’ Training School, RAAF Base, VIC, with or without a degree
• You’ll be trained to be a leader, learning management and mentoring skills and taking responsibility for those under your command.

About Gap Year

Gap Year gives young Australians the chance to experience an exciting and rewarding 12-month role in the Navy, Army or Air Force. It’s a unique opportunity to get a feel for a career in the ADF without a long-term commitment. Applicants must be 17-24 years old on enlistment and be at least 18 years old by completion of military training and have completed Year 12.

• Only commit to 12 months
• Receive a salary and valuable training
• Make unforgettable friendships and gain skills for life.

Does this sound like someone you know?

• Ready to earn a good wage
• Unsure about their next move
• Seeks adventure.