Rewarding ADF Roles for Women and Indigenous Australians

While many Australian businesses are having to make tough decisions in the wake of the pandemic, The Defence Force is one of the few employers expanding its workforce. In June, Scott Morrison committed to spending $270 billion over the next 10 years on defence capabilities. This includes an extra 800 recruits on top of the 8,000 or so accepted into the ADF each year. 

Women have been hit particularly hard by the so-called “pink recession,” with many casual roles disappearing and female-dominated industries (food and accommodation services, arts and retail, for example) experiencing significant downturns. So, if you are considering a change of career, or looking for a new adventure, there’s never been a better time to apply to the ADF.

No matter your background, there are opportunities for all Australians.

Indigenous Australians in the ADF

There are a number of opportunities on offer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders of all ages looking to join the Army, Navy or Air Force.

“The ADF has a strong Indigenous community that includes liaison officers, mentors and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander network which individuals can reach into for support and guidance.” 

                                              – Warrant Officer Sandow

The Indigenous Pathways Program is an important initiative to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in the Armed Forces. 

• The Army Indigenous Development Program (AIDP)  – a 17-week program for those who do not currently meet the General Entry standards and need to develop education, aptitude, fitness and resilience skills before commencing recruit training.

• The Fitness and Resilience Program (FITPrep) –  a seven-week program that is designed to provide potential soldiers with the physical and mental attributes needed to be fully prepared to progress into recruit training and further employment

• The Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program (IPRP) – a 6-week program for those who meet General Entry standards but need to develop confidence, resilience and fitness standards before commencing recruit training. 

For more information contact the Indigenous Recruitment Team – (SRT-I-Sydney@dfr.com.au – 0427 661 508)

Women In The ADF

Women have traditionally been underrepresented in the Australian Defence Force, but the tide does seem to be turning. Compared to the same period last year, the rate of female applicants to the ADF has increased by 78 per cent. 

All roles in the Australian Defence Force are open for men and women to apply, with each individual being promoted and recognised based on their personal abilities and attributes. 

“In today’s modern ADF, women receive exactly the same salaries, training, vocational development and promotion opportunities as their male colleagues.“

Flexible enlistment pathways support the needs of female candidates seeking full-time roles and include

• Start at a time that suits your personal circumstances
• First posting near your home or desired location
• Help with pre-recruit fitness
• Join with a shorter commitment

Find out more about the 200+ roles on offer by contacting the Women in Defence Team – (WID-Eastern@dfr.com.au – 02 8831 2291)