We know the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has a lot of misconceptions about it, and one of the things we LOVE doing here at Explore Careers is breaking down the myths to bring you the good stuff about different career opportunities.
After some recent chats with ADF employees, we decided to bring you everything you need to know about joining the ADF – and why it could be just the place to start your own rewarding career!
What Does Work With the Defence Force Typically Involve?
The Australian Defence Force offers various roles, fulfilling defence and peacetime services. Across the Navy, Army and Air Force, and public services within the Department of Defence, there are many careers to explore.
Whether on base, on land or at sea, no two days are the same as you’ll use your training and skills to support communities in need and work to ensure a safe and secure home for all.
There are opportunities to suit every lifestyle and skillset:
- In the Navy, you’ll be a supportive community member, travelling the world and exploring new cultures.
- In the Army, you’ll participate in exercises in Australia and overseas, preparing you for your role at the forefront of the response.
- In the Air Force, you could work with cutting-edge aero technology, assisting with aeromedical evacuations anywhere in the world.
- In the Department of Defence, you could assist with anything from clerical administration to engineering, human resources to technology or naval shipbuilding!
What Could You Do?
A better question is, what COULDN’T you do – that’s just how much variety there is across the Australian Defence Force!
To give a (very!) brief overview, here’s a look at some of the core roles you could explore by area of the Defence force:
Army Jobs:
- Army Officer: With world-class training, unlock your leadership potential as a strong manager and decision-maker with a job as an Army Officer.
- Artillery Operator: Join the team that sets up, aims and fires the Army’s formidable heavyweight artillery in a career full of camaraderie.
Navy Jobs:
- Maritime Warfare Officer: Take responsibility for the control, navigation, systems and maritime safety of an advanced Navy vessel, assuming responsibility for the ship during each watch you keep.
- Electronics Engineer Submariner: Lead a team that maintains advanced combat, self-defence, sensor, communications and intelligence systems, working in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
Air Force Jobs:
- Weapons Systems Operator: Operate some of the world’s most sophisticated airborne electronic and weapon systems from a seat in one of the world’s fastest fighter aircraft, managing air combat or electronic warfare missions.
- Aeronautical Engineer: Maintain and manage aircraft structures, propulsion systems, ancillary equipment and related ground support systems, working at the leading edge of aircraft technology.
These job roles are just a taste of what’s on offer. Each industry segment will also include administrative or managerial functions that support the sector significantly – there is a heap to explore!
Check out our dedicated Industry Profile to discover a few other roles you could do!
Hear From the Experts
Look, don’t just take our word for it. We’ve been super lucky to get to ask some of your burning questions to key members of the Defence Force in our employee interviews – and they’re well worth a watch!
Hear from:
Like most people, our ideas about working in the Navy come from watching a bunch of OTT action-packed movies – but what’s life like onboard the Defence Force?
Here to give us the full low-down is Kiah Whye, Combat Systems Operator with the Royal Australian Navy. Kiah breaks down some key misconceptions about her role and why there’s so much you’ll take away from one of the world’s most unique careers!
Maverick ain’t got nothing on our next guest! We were super excited to have Todd, Network Technician with the Australian Airforce, join us for our employee interviews to talk us through his role, career journey and why a career in the Defence could be just the place to kickstart your career goals!
While Todd tells us he’s been surrounded by family members who’ve served, the Defence Force is a welcoming and supportive place to explore where a career could take you.
Find Out More
There’s plenty more to discover with a career in the Defence Force – and you’ll be pleased to know entry into the various sectors has never been easier!
Find out more via our exclusive Australian Defence Force employer profile now!
