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Transcript of MDFT2520 TA10 60pp.indd 4 10/8/07 5:09:18 PM
MDF
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a recognised degree.a guaranteed career
in the navy, army or air force.speak to your school careers adviser.
call 13 19 01 or visit www.defencejobs.gov.au
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AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY ENTRYA Message to Students
We would like to thank you for your interest in the
Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA). The university
degree and military training that you undertake at ADFA
will give you an excellent basis for a leadership role and a
career in the Navy, Army or Air Force.
While you are at ADFA, a major emphasis of your
preparations will be on university studies to develop your
knowledge and intellectual capabilities. The other very
important emphasis will be on military components and
training to develop the professional abilities and qualities of
character and leadership that are appropriate to Officers in
the Australian Defence Force.
Our intention is to provide you with an exciting, challenging
and rewarding experience in a supportive environment
where you will have the opportunity, and be encouraged,
to excel.
Brigadier Brian Dawson, AM, CSC
Commandant
Australian Defence Force Academy
Professor John Baird
Rector
University of New South Wales
Australian Defence Force Academy
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WHAT IS AN OFFICER?
WHAT IS ADFA?
What is the Australian Defence Force Academy? 3
What kind of people join? 3
Is ADFA a recognised university? 4
What degree can you undertake? 4
There is more to ADFA 4
Prizes and Awards 5
Officer Training 5
University Studies 6
THE ADFA LIFESTYLE
The ADFA Lifestyle 8
Sport 8Boatshed 8
Relaxation and getting on with life 8The Academy Cadets’ Mess 8On-campus facilities 8
Other activities at ADFA 9Band 9Precision Drill Team 9Foster Family Scheme 9Charities 9
Salary 10
MILITARY STUDIES
What Military Training will you undergo? 12
Academy Military Education and Training 12Leadership Studies 12Drill and Ceremonial 12Military Communication Program 12Equity and Diversity Training 12First Aid and Health 12Field Craft 12Military Law 12Physical Training 12Weapons Training 12
Single Service Training 13Navy Single Service Training 13Army Single Service Training 13Air Force Single Service Training 13
What do you have to give back? 13
ACADEMIC STUDIES
Undergraduate Programs 15
Bachelor of Arts (BA) 15
Bachelor of Science (BSc) 16
Discipline areas available in the BA and BSc 17Economics 17English 17Geography 17History 18Indonesian 18Politics 18Information Technology 18Information Systems 19Computer Science 19
Operations Research and Statistics 20Management 20Mathematics and Statistics 20Oceanography 20Chemistry 21Physics 21
Bachelor of Business (BBus) 22
Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Aeronautical Engineering 23
Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Civil Engineering 24
Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Electrical Engineering 25
Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Mechanical Engineering 27
Bachelor of Technology (Aeronautical Engineering) (BTech (Aero)) 28
Bachelor of Technology (Aviation) (BTech (Av)) 29
The Chief of Defence Force Students Programs 30
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OFFICERS CAREERS
Life after ADFA 32
ADFA NAvY CAREERS
ADFA Navy Careers 34Aerospace Engineer Officer 34Aerospace Engineer – Weapons Electrical Aircraft 34Aviation Officer – Observer 34Aviation Officer – Pilot 34Marine Engineer Officer 34Seaman Officer 35Supply Officer 35Weapons Electrical Engineer Officer 35
ADFA ARMY CAREERS
ADFA Army Careers 37Armoured Corps Officer 37Artillery Officer 37Electrical and Mechanical Engineer Corps Officer 37 – Electrical Engineering Officer 37 – Mechanical Engineering Officer 37Engineer Corps Officer 37 – Aeronautical Engineering Officer 37 – Civil Engineer 37 – Geomatic Engineer 38Infantry Officer 38Intelligence Corps Officer 38Military Police Officer 38Ordnance Corps Officer 38Pilot – General Service Officer 38Signals Corps Officer 38 – Computer Science Officer 38 Transport Corps Officer 38
ADFA AIR FORCE CAREERS
ADFA AIR FORCE CAREERS 40Administrative Officer 40Aerospace Engineer 40 – Aeronautical Engineer Officer 40 – Armament Engineer Officer 40 – Electronics Engineer Officer 40Air Defence Officer (Fighter Controller) 40Air Traffic Controller 40Airfield Engineer Officer 41Intelligence Officer 41Logistics Officer 41Navigator 41Pilot 41
HOW TO AppLY
Eligibility for ADFA 43
Educational qualifications for admission to ADFA 43
What entrance scores are required for UNSW @ ADFA? 43
Access Program 43
Further information about assumed knowledge 44Assumed knowledge State by State 44Service requirements 44Bonus Point Scheme 45
The ADFA Application Process 46
Can I visit ADFA to see what it’s really like? 47ADFA Open Day 47
ADFA Education Award 47
qUESTIONS AND INFORMATION
Frequently asked questions 49
Who can I contact for further information? 51
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�An Officer is a leader. A unique type of person looking for
challenges – intellectually, physically and emotionally.
They require conviction, decisiveness, initiative and an
overwhelming desire to lead, to not only bring out the best
in themselves, but bring out the best in others. This is
what ADFA teaches its students.
From the moment you complete your ADFA Officer training
you’ll learn to use instinct, reason and logic to quickly
assess situations and respond accordingly, no matter how
complex the situation may be. At the same time, you’ll
learn to appreciate those under your command and make
the most of their abilities to work in a team.
With the specialist training only ADFA can offer, you’ll
learn to think on your feet and manage your team to work
through any situation that is thrown at you. Over time you
will develop your intellectual strength and ingenuity. This
in turn will give you the ability to use reason and logic to
solve more and more complex problems and build on your
leadership skills as your career progresses.
A career as a Navy, Army or Air Force Officer will provide
you with challenges unlike anything you’d experience in
a regular nine-to-five job. ADFA will provide you with the
leadership skills you’ll need as an Officer in the Australian
Defence Force.
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�WHAT IS THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY?ADFA is a unique partnership between the Australian
Defence Force (ADF) and the University of New South
Wales (UNSW) which provides training and education for
the future leaders of the Navy, Army and Air Force. It offers
you combined military and leadership training with an
undergraduate degree from UNSW.
UNSW is one of Australia’s most respected universities,
with an international reputation for outstanding academic
programs and world-class research outcomes. While
you are at ADFA you will study an undergraduate degree
in Arts, Business, Engineering, Science or Technology
through UNSW on campus at ADFA. UNSW @ ADFA
offers the best university teacher-to-student ratio in the
country and some of the best qualified academic staff in
their respective fields. As such, you can be assured that
your degree is of the highest standing.
When you’re enrolled at ADFA, you are actually employed
by the ADF. We refer to you as a Midshipman if you
are pursuing a Navy career or an Officer Cadet if you’re
pursuing an Army or Air Force career. You live and study
on campus, with access to some wonderful resources
and facilities, including 23 hectares of sporting fields and
an indoor sports centre widely considered to be one of
Australia’s best.
At ADFA you’re actually paid to study. You’ll earn a salary
of $ 20,570 p.a. in your first year, increasing to currently
$ 32,833 p.a. in your fourth year, as well as having all of
your tuition fees and most of your textbooks paid for. In
addition, the ADF will subsidise your accommodation and
provide you with free healthcare.
To graduate from ADFA you must successfully complete
both academic and military requirements. When you do
graduate, you’ll do so with a UNSW degree just as though
you were studying at the Sydney campus of UNSW. Best
of all, you’re guaranteed a job as an Officer in the ADF.
As an Officer sponsored through ADFA, you’ll complete
a Return Of Service Obligation (ROSO) which guarantees
employment for a period of time in the ADF.
ADFA also offers opportunities for study and research
at postgraduate levels leading to Graduate Diplomas as
well as Masters and Doctoral degrees. Sponsorship of
postgraduate studies is at the discretion of the Service of
which you are a member.
WHAT kIND OF pEOpLE jOIN?You’ll find that your classmates are from all over the
country and from all sorts of different backgrounds. Yet
everyone at ADFA shares common attributes. You have
a willingness to work hard and adapt to new situations.
You’re a team player. You like to work with other people to
make things happen. You also enjoy a challenge. And while
academic pursuits are the focus of life at ADFA, there’s
always plenty of time for fun.
You’ll go through a lot with your fellow classmates. So it’s no
wonder you make strong friendships. In fact, the friends you
make at ADFA will more than likely be your mates for life.
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� IS ADFA A RECOgNISED UNIvERSITY?The University of New South Wales at ADFA is a
recognised university, and you’ll graduate with a UNSW
degree. What’s more, every degree comes with all the
academic credibility you would expect from one of the
most highly regarded universities in Australia. ADFA
maintains a very high standard of teaching with lecturers
and tutors at the top of their relevant fields. You’ll enjoy
one of the best student-to-teacher ratios in the country
and have access to fantastic resources and facilities on-
campus. The study facilities at ADFA include a prestigious
library, modern science labs and lecture theatres, and the
latest computer equipment.
WHAT DEgREE CAN YOU UNDERTAkE?The following Bachelor degrees are available from
UNSW @ ADFA:
Bachelor of Arts BA, BA (CDF) and BA (Hons)
Bachelor of Business BBus, BBus (CDF) and
BBus (Hons)
Bachelor of Engineering BE (Aeronautical, Civil,
Electrical and Mechanical),
BE (Aeronautical, Civil,
Electrical and Mechanical) (CDF)
Bachelor of Science BSc, BSc (CDF) and BSc (Hons)
Bachelor of Technology BTech (Aeronautical and Aviation),
BTech (Aeronautical) (CDF)
THERE IS MORE TO ADFAThere’s more to ADFA than just academic studies. Throughout the year, you’ll take part in military and leadership training.
During these training periods, you’ll learn basic skills like military communications, as well as leadership techniques. You may
also participate in adventure training activities like whitewater rafting and trekking.
The calendar looks something like this:
No. of Weeks Activity
4Year One Familiarisation Training (YOFT) or Academy Military Education and Training (AMET) and/or Single Service Training (SST)
1 Chief of the Defence Force Parade
16Session 1 academic studies (this period includes a two-week recess of career development and field trips which can be either academic or military in nature)
2 Study and examinations
2 Mid-year leave and/or SST and/or Service Attachments
14Session 2 academic studies (this period includes a one-week recess of career development and field trips which can be either academic or military in nature)
2 Study and examinations
3 AMET and/or SST
1 Graduation (all Midshipmen and Officer Cadets participate in graduation activities)
5 End of year leave
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pRIzES AND AWARDSAt the end of the third year at ADFA, all Midshipmen
and Officer Cadets who have met the military and
academic requirements graduate from ADFA. The third
year Midshipman or Officer Cadet who displays the
most outstanding military and academic achievement,
leadership, personal example and performance of duty over
the three years will be awarded the Commander in Chief
Medal, the most prestigious military prize at ADFA.
The third year Midshipman or Officer Cadet who
demonstrates exceptional leadership ability and
outstanding Officer qualities will be awarded the Chief of
the Defence Force Sword of Honour. The most outstanding
third year Navy Midshipman, Army Officer Cadet and
Air Force Officer Cadet will be presented with the Chief
of Navy, Chief of Army and Chief of Air Force prizes
respectively. Outstanding individual performances in the
various academic programs and individual subjects in all
years are rewarded with other academic prizes. Prizes
and awards are also presented for excellence in military
training, physical training, sporting teams and the
ADFA Band.
OFFICER TRAININgNAvY
If you apply as a Navy Pilot or Observer you will start your
training at ADFA. All other Navy Midshipman complete
initial Officer training at HMAS Creswell, Jervis Bay, on
the NSW south coast, immediately following entry to the
Navy. You will then undertake a six-month consolidation
period in the fleet and commence at ADFA at the beginning
of your second year in the Navy. Upon graduation, you
are promoted to Sub Lieutenant. If you undertake a fourth
year of study at ADFA, you will do so prior to commencing
relevant professional training.
ARMY
As an Army Officer you must successfully complete three
years at ADFA. Then you’ll undertake a year of military
training at the Royal Military College (RMC) Duntroon,
after which you’ll be commissioned as a Lieutenant. You’ll
then take up your first appointment in an Army unit or
return to ADFA for an Honours year or the fourth year of an
Engineering degree.
AIR FORCE
As an Air Force Officer Cadet you’ll undertake Air Force
specific training at the Officers’ Training School, Point
Cook, Victoria throughout your time at ADFA. Following
graduation from ADFA you are commissioned as a Pilot
Officer or Flying Officer and go on to job-specific training.
Air Force Officer Cadets who undertake a fourth year of
study do so prior to job-specific training.
�
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� UNIvERSITY STUDIESIf you are undertaking Arts, Science, Business or
Technology programs you will be awarded your degree
after completion of three years academic and military
studies at ADFA. If you are undertaking an Engineering
degree you follow a prescribed four-year program.
If you are studying a Bachelor of Technology (Aviation)
degree, you are awarded your degree at the completion of
two years formal study at ADFA and successful completion
of flight training combined with a prescribed project.
If you are an Arts, Science or Business student who excels
at ADFA you may be offered a transfer to an Honours
program, providing your Service authorises a further
12 months of training.
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� THE ADFA LIFESTYLELife at ADFA doesn’t just involve academic studies. Apart
from regular sporting pursuits, living in Canberra provides
you with an enormous variety of social opportunities such
as museums, galleries, restaurants and bars. Regular
social events are also held both on and off campus,
including formal mess dinners, sporting social functions
and other social gatherings.
When it comes time to relax, the accommodation at ADFA
provides everything you need to feel right at home. The
rooms are comfortable and private, and there are common
areas, lounges and the Cadets’ Mess complex where
you can unwind. In short, ADFA offers a huge range of
opportunities that simply cannot be found at any other
university. It’s little wonder that most graduates say that
the years they spent at ADFA were some of the best of
their lives.
SpORTADFA offers all sorts of exciting mental and physical
challenges, so there’s never a dull moment. It boasts a
comprehensive sports program, allowing you to take part
in just about any sport in the local area. There are fantastic
sporting facilities at ADFA, with around 23 hectares
of sporting fields and a state-of-the-art indoor sports
centre and swimming pool. It houses squash courts, a
gymnasium and weights room that you can use in your
spare time.
Sport provides you with opportunities to meet and socialise
with members of other teams. However, sports are not
limited to team events; individual excellence in such sports
as athletics, swimming, fencing, sailing and shooting is also
encouraged. You may also use the golf course at the Royal
Military College (RMC) Duntroon. Participation in sport is not
compulsory, although involvement in at least one sport each
season is strongly encouraged.
Other competition sports include:
Hockey Sailing
Water Polo Orienteering
Volleyball Tennis
Rugby Union Softball
Australian Rules Football Soccer
Basketball Touch Football
Squash Netball
SpORTS gROUNDS
Within the grounds of the Academy are playing fields for
cricket, football, netball, squash, tennis and other sports.
You may also use the golf course at the Royal Military
College (RMC) Duntroon.
BOATSHED
The Academy Boatshed is located on the shore of Lake
Burley Griffin, Yarralumla. The facility houses rowing sculls
and shells, sailing and racing dinghies, canoes and a
number of sailboards along with two Endeavour 24 yachts,
which are moored permanently on the lake.
RELAxATION AND gETTINg ON WITH LIFEMost people don’t realise that being a member of the
Defence Force is, in many ways, just like a regular job.
Once your study commitments are complete, there is time
to enjoy yourself. There are always plenty of opportunities
to socialise at ADFA.
THE ACADEMY CADETS’ MESS
Adjacent to your accommodation is the Academy Cadets’
Mess, which is the largest Officers’ Mess in Australia
and is designed to cater for up to 1,200 Midshipmen and
Officer Cadets. The Cadets’ Mess is the centre of social
life for Midshipmen and Officer Cadets. It’s a great place to
meet up with your mates and relax over a meal. The mess
comprises kitchens, dining areas, bars, recreation rooms
and a shop.
ON-CAMpUS FACILITIES
The facilities at ADFA ensure you have access to a wide
range of services on campus, just like any other university.
Centrally located near the main library is Academy House,
providing the following services to all Academy staff,
Midshipmen and Officer Cadets:
Banking There are branches of credit unions which offer
a wide range of banking services and a Multi-Card 24-hour
ATM facility.
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Bookshop The University Co-operative Bookshop is open
from 9.00am-5.00pm and stocks all academic textbooks,
general books, newspapers and stationery. A wide range
of computer software is also available plus a range of
magazines, cards and postage stamps. Membership of the
Co-op provides attractive discounts on most purchases.
Coffee Shop The coffee shop offers hot meals to eat-in or
take away, snacks, hot and cold drinks and confectionery.
The coffee shop is an area where you may relax either
inside or on the patio outside the building.
Dry Cleaning A dry cleaning agency operates from the
coffee shop.
Hairdressing A hairdressing salon operates between
9.00am-5.00pm on weekdays.
Car Parks There are numerous car parks on campus
if you have your own vehicle. However you’re advised
to obtain comprehensive insurance, as ADFA does not
guarantee the security of private vehicles.
Taxis and Buses A taxi rank and bus stop are located on
campus, making it easy for you to get all over Canberra.
OTHER ACTIvITIES AT ADFAThere are a number of other activities available to
Midshipmen and Officer Cadets. They include:
Band Military Shooting
Performing Arts Overseas Battlefield Study Tour
Graduation Committee Debating
Precision Drill Team
BAND
The Band, Pipes and Drums of ADFA is a military concert
band under the administration and conduct of a member
of the Australian Army Band Corps. The Band performs
for all Academy parades and provides musical support
for the annual Academy production, concert evenings,
presentation nights and church services. The Band also
performs outside the Academy occasionally, with a
commitment during the academic year to provide a piper
or bugler for commemorative events such as Anzac Day.
pRECISION DRILL TEAM
The ADFA Precision Drill Team performs in the community
as goodwill ambassadors for the Academy and promotes
ADFA in a positive way. In recent times the Drill Team has
performed routines at the arrival of the Olympic Torch to
Parliament House, Canberra’s Floriade, ADFA Open Day
and in Brisbane during the International Military Tattoo.
The team practices for up to two hours per week during
normal commitments. When a performance is coming up this
will extend to four to six hours a week. Membership consists
of 32 Midshipmen and Officer Cadets, allowing a 24-member
performing squad with eight members in reserve.
FOSTER FAMILY SCHEME
During the first few weeks, if you come from outside the
Australian Capital Territory, you will be invited to join the
Foster Family Scheme. This scheme introduces you to
serving and retired military Officers and Warrant Officers
living locally who will provide a home-away-from-home
environment to assist in the settling-in process.
CHARITIES
The Academy is involved in supporting a number of
charities each year. These include Legacy, Red Cross,
Anzac Day badge selling and the Salvation Army Red
Shield Appeal. You may be asked to provide support
during these appeals.
�
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�0 SALARYYou are paid fortnightly while studying at ADFA. Your
pay rate increases each year to a current maximum of
$32,833p.a. by the final year of a four-year degree.
The pay schedule looks like this:
Year 1 $20,570p.a. Year 2 $24,526p.a. Year 3 $30,855p.a. Year 4 $32,833p.a.
Fortnightly superannuation contributions are paid
to the Military Superannuation Scheme.
You are also required to make a fortnightly payment
of $211.30 to cover the cost of meals, accommodation
and utilities.
Pay rates and payments are correct as at August 2007.
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�2 WHAT MILITARY TRAININg WILL YOU UNDERgO?The military training program is designed over a three-year
period to provide you with the fundamental knowledge,
skills and attitudes required by junior Officers in the ADF.
This provides a foundation for the individual Services to
conduct further training and development once you leave
the Academy. The military training program consists of
two key components – Academy Military Education and
Training and Single Service Training.
ACADEMY MILITARY EDUCATION AND TRAININgThe Academy Military Education and Training (AMET)
program is carried out in session breaks and for eight
hours per week during academic sessions. You will find
there is significant emphasis on creating experience based
leadership opportunities in the training activities. The
AMET program includes subjects such as:
LEADERSHIp STUDIES
This forms a large part of the AMET curriculum and
is conducted both formally and informally. The studies
aim to develop leadership skills and prepare you to take
your place as a junior Officer in the ADF.
DRILL AND CEREMONIAL
This promotes reaction to command, self-discipline and
teamwork through knowledge and practice of the customs
and traditions of military ceremonies.
MILITARY COMMUNICATION pROgRAM
This is designed to develop confidence and effectiveness
in your oral and written communication skills, which
are necessary for your military career. It also introduces
you to the style and forms of written communication
used by Defence.
EqUITY AND DIvERSITY TRAININg
This provides you with the skills to live, study and
develop in a healthy academic and social environment
by teaching you how to treat people fairly and with
respect in accordance with ADF policies.
FIRST AID AND HEALTH
Examines the impact on society of drug and alcohol abuse
and teaches first aid and preventative health techniques.
FIELD CRAFT
This introduces you to living in the field as a member
of a group and survival in adverse circumstances.
MILITARY LAW
This introduces you to the Defence Force Discipline Act
and the Geneva Conventions. The subject is designed to
enable you to function in the Academy environment with
more detailed training being conducted nearer to the time
you become a full Officer in the ADF.
pHYSICAL TRAININg
This teaches you fitness, strength and agility. Physical
training classes are conducted during the weekly military
training program. As sport and a high standard of physical
fitness are important parts of Service life, you are
encouraged to obtain a coaching or refereeing qualification
for at least one sport.
WEApONS TRAININg
This gives you training in the operation and maintenance
of small arms Service weapons.
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��SINgLE SERvICE TRAININgSingle Service Training (SST) is generally conducted at
the beginning and end of the year for varying periods of
time and gives you the opportunity to experience and learn
about your parent Service. The Services are responsible
for the design and implementation of the syllabi for the
conduct of SST which are outlined below.
NAvY SINgLE SERvICE TRAININg
On joining the Royal Australian Navy, most Midshipmen
complete initial Officer training at HMAS Creswell at
Jervis Bay, followed by a six-month consolidation period
in the fleet, prior to commencing at ADFA (see Officer
Training). In your second and third years, you will go to
sea in a variety of ships where you will work alongside
Sailors to gain an appreciation of shipboard life. If you’re
studying engineering, you’ll also undertake periods of work
experience during your Naval training. Navy Pilots and
Observers go directly to ADFA.
ARMY SINgLE SERvICE TRAININg
SST for Army Officer Cadets is conducted at the Royal
Military College (RMC) Duntroon in Canberra, and other
Army establishments in New South Wales and Victoria.
This takes you to the level of a trained Soldier. The training
includes weapons handling, field craft, navigation and
tactics at platoon level.
AIR FORCE SINgLE SERvICE TRAININg
Air Force SST is designed to allow you to complete
your Air Force Junior Officers’ Initial Course during your
time at ADFA. The training includes general Service
knowledge, ground defence training and air power
knowledge. It also includes elements to motivate you
towards your chosen branch in the Air Force. In your
second year you will spend a total five weeks at the
Officer Training School at Point Cook in Victoria.
WHAT DO YOU HAvE TO gIvE BACk?The purpose of a Return Of Service Obligation (ROSO) is to
ensure that the Service is able to gain an acceptable return
on the investment made in your training and education.
A ROSO is essentially the period of service required from
you before you are entitled to voluntary resignation. The
length of ROSO that you’ll incur varies between jobs. You’ll
become liable for your ROSO upon graduating from your
second year of studies. This means that you may leave
the Academy at any time up to the end of second year,
without any obligation. For further information on ROSO,
speak to a Defence Careers Adviser at a Defence Force
Careers Recruiting Centre located near you.
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��UNDERgRADUATE pROgRAMSUNSW @ ADFA offers a range of programs for
Midshipmen and Officer Cadets that conform to the highest
standards in Australia’s leading universities.
The Business, Engineering and Technology degrees
have a set program structure although there are some
opportunities for elective study. The Arts and Science
degrees have a more flexible program structure. It is a
characteristic feature of all UNSW degrees that you must
undertake at least some subjects outside the main study
area. These courses are referred to as General Education.
A separate Honours year is available in the Bachelors of
Arts, Business and Science. This additional year of full-
time study is subject to meeting eligibility criteria based
on performance in the pass level degree and is subject to
Service discretion. You should be aware that your ability to
undertake this additional year of study may be delayed as
a result of your Service requirements.
In an Honours year you undertake a research project
and present your results in a thesis. Coursework and
assignments are also included as part of the program.
UNSW @ ADFA also welcomes applicants into the
Honours year from civilians or non-military students.
For updated information on academic studies and specific
courses, visit www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/student.
BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA)UAC CODE
450001
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 70.00 or ENTER 70.00 or ITI 70.00 or OP1-14
DURATION OF DEgREE
Three years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics if you will be entering into the Army,
or taking Mathematics, Physics or Oceanography
as part of your Bachelor of Arts, AND
• Physics if you are taking Physics as part of your
Bachelor Arts.
OvERvIEW
The Bachelor of Arts is a very flexible degree program
offered by UNSW @ ADFA. The program can provide you
with the opportunity to acquire high-level understanding
and advanced analytical skills in key arts discipline
areas. You can combine courses from Economics, English
literature, Indonesian language and culture, Information
Systems, Geography, History, Management as well as
Political Science, and build expertise in one or more of
these specialisations.
The flexible nature of the BA also allows you to take courses
from Science discipline areas in Chemistry, Computer
Science, Mathematics and Statistics, Oceanography,
Operations Research and Statistics and Physics.
Details of the specialisations appear on page 17.
Should you excel in your BA degree, you have the
opportunity to undertake an Honours degree which is an
extra year of study.
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�� BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BSC)UAC CODE
450002
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 70.00 or ENTER 70.00 or ITI 70.00 or OP1-14
DURATION OF DEgREE
Three years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics if you will be entering into the Army,
or taking Mathematics, Physics or Oceanography
as part of your Bachelor of Science, AND
• Physics if you are taking Physics as part of your
Bachelor of Science.
OvERvIEW
Science is the understanding of the physical universe
(from sub-atomic particles and microbes through to the
planet’s environment and the origin of the universe itself),
and human interactions with it. Just as important is the
scientific process by which this understanding is gained.
In turn, science is the foundation of the modern technologies
that enhance the quality of lives and provide ever more
sophisticated means of applying the scientific process.
In addition, science is crucial in the control of disease,
biotechnology, new sustainable energy sources, information
technology and management of precious natural resources.
A Bachelor of Science degree will help you develop lifetime
skills including creativity, problem-solving ability, critical
thinking and communication skills that will be useful not
only in a scientific environment but in all professions
including the military. The following Science discipline
areas are available in the BSc: Chemistry, Computer
Science, Geography, Information Systems, Mathematics
and Statistics, Oceanography, Operations Research and
Statistics, and Physics.
In addition, the flexible nature of the BSc degree allows
you to also choose courses from the following Arts
discipline areas: Economics, English, History, Indonesian,
Management and Politics.
Details of the specialisations appear on page 17.
The ADF requires leaders who are prepared to deal with
technical and management issues that will often require
scientific knowledge and the intellectual and practical
problem-solving skills developed through studies in physical,
environmental and mathematical sciences. Should you
excel in your BSc degree, you may have the opportunity to
undertake an Honours degree which is an extra year of study.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 16 10/8/07 5:10:15 PM
�7DISCIpLINE AREAS AvAILABLE IN THE BA AND BSCCourses in the following disciplines can be taken as part of
a Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Arts (CDF) or a Bachelor of
Science/ Bachelor of Science (CDF).
ECONOMICS
Economics explores and analyses the different ways in
which individuals, firms and countries make the best use
of their scarce and valuable resources: use of time, energy
and knowledge; use of land, equipment and muscle power.
This all helps to build an understanding about the scope
for and deficiencies of government policy. You learn how
to model the economic behaviour of individuals, firms and
governments. This helps you understand the principles and
real world challenges in areas such as international trade,
growth and change of open economies, the formulation of
economic policy, and analysis of economic development in
Asian and Pacific countries.
ECONOMICS IN A SERvICE CAREER
Studying economics helps you understand the important
economic forces shaping the strategic environment – in the
region and globally. It also offers insights into policymaking
that affects the resources that Defence can use. For future
leaders of the ADF, this is valuable knowledge. Learning
economics also develops a logical thinking capability and
shows the importance of drawing on real-world evidence to
test competing theories and ideas.
ENgLISH
Study of the English language is the basis for the
development of critical thinking, reading and analytical
writing skills that are essential to a full participation in
modern working life, whether in the military or civilian
world. As an English student at UNSW @ ADFA, you’ll
read a wide range of literary and other texts, from
the classical literature of ancient Greece and Rome to
contemporary writing.
You’ll also take part in debates about the literature, the
reading approaches and the place of literature in a world
dominated by visual media. You’ll learn to understand the
way language works in our culture and to think critically
about your own place in the world. You will also get the
opportunity to meet and talk with many well-known
visiting writers.
ENgLISH IN A SERvICE CAREER
More and more, the ADF requires that its Officers have
the capacity to analyse and respond to complex situations
with sensitivity and intelligence. The study of English
enables students to develop critical thinking and language,
necessary for demanding communications and human
management tasks.
gEOgRApHY
Geography is the study of physical and human
environments and the interaction between people and
nature. It provides you with the techniques to analyse the
environment and society, including computer and satellite
technologies, and field research techniques. Geography
bridges the social and natural sciences, and is offered both
as an Arts and a Science discipline area.
Level I courses examine global environmental change and
geographies of contemporary Australia. In upper-level
courses you can choose to specialise in particular areas
such as environmental hazards, Australia’s place in the
world, ecological land management and the geography of
the Asia-Pacific region. You’ll conduct fieldwork in exciting
locations, apply computer-based and traditional techniques
for solving environmental problems, and debate issues
with important strategic implications.
gEOgRApHY IN A SERvICE CAREER
Geography has always been the central discipline for
the military officer in all services. Much military activity
involves interactions with unfamiliar environments and
peoples, and geography provides you with the conceptual
and practical tools for making decisions and quantifying
uncertainty. Changing military operations, from warfare
to peacekeeping and humanitarian relief, has increased
the importance of geography, since geography is the
holistic discipline that studies the physical, social and
cultural interactions that lead to environmental and social
crises. Geography provides you as a military officer, with
the techniques and concepts that hones your powers
of observation, interpretation and understanding of
the operational environment. In short, a geographical
perspective allows you to ‘see’ things that others miss.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 17 10/8/07 5:10:15 PM
�� HISTORY
To understand the world in which we live, it is crucial to
have a grasp of those historical events that have shaped
the world, such as social change, wars, revolutions and
popular movements. The study of History helps you develop
the intellectual skills necessary to reach an understanding
of the social, political and cultural dynamics of complex and
changing situations in unfamiliar environments.
A variety of approaches to history are offered, each
emphasising the basic disciplinary skills of assimilating
and weighing evidence, analysing historical problems,
constructing and testing historical hypotheses and
presenting conclusions clearly and logically.
You can take courses on the modern history of Australia,
Britain, France, Germany, Russia, China and Japan, again
focusing on a wide range of themes and approaches,
including social, economic, cultural and political history, as
well as military history and strategic studies.
HISTORY IN A SERvICE CAREER
Effective military leadership in the contemporary world
can often depend upon a capacity to quickly reach
an accurate understanding of the social, political and
cultural dynamics of complex and changing situations in
unfamiliar environments. The study of history develops the
intellectual skills necessary to reach such understandings.
More generally, the historian’s skills of research, analysis,
and clear communication of complex issues are of
enormous value in large, complex and permanently
evolving organisations such as Defence.
INDONESIAN
Indonesian (or Malay) is the national language of Indonesia,
Australia’s closest neighbour. It is also the national language of
Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore, and widely used in East Timor.
It is spoken by over 200 million people and understanding
the language provides a unique insight into these countries
and facilitates practical communication with our neighbours.
The courses emphasise both practical language
competence, with particular emphasis on oral
communication, and an understanding of the Indonesian
cultural and social contexts. In first year, you can expect
to be able to communicate effectively on a limited range
of everyday topics, and by the end of third year to be able
to function in social situations. Subject to approval from
Defence, you may undertake in-country study in Indonesia.
INDONESIAN IN A SERvICE CAREER
The Australia-Indonesia relationship is of direct relevance to
members of the ADF. Factors to consider include Indonesia’s
strategic geographic position, its substantial population
and its regional political and economic importance. If one
also takes into account past and future military links and
the co-operation between Australia and Indonesia, then
an understanding of Indonesian language, culture and
society is of immediate and practical use to members of
the ADF in a wide range of defence activities. Additionally,
formal defence ties with Malaysia and Singapore, where
Indonesian/Malay is widely understood, also make the study
of Indonesian useful.
pOLITICS
The study of Politics is vitally important for future leaders
of the ADF. The course is not designed to produce
politicians, but to produce individuals who can think clearly
about political issues, analyse complex situations and
make reasoned judgements.
You will gain knowledge of the foreign policy objectives
of Australia, the political rationale for various operations
and the nature of the foreign political and cultural systems
involved. Politics courses offered include the study of
Asia-Pacific security, political change in Indonesia, social
change in East Asia, the history of Indonesian defence
policy and the politics of China. An understanding of
historical and cultural backgrounds complements the study
of Politics.
pOLITICS IN A SERvICE CAREER
The study of Politics develops individuals who can think
clearly and be level-headed about political issues; can
analyse complex situations in domestic and international
affairs; and then make reasoned judgements. Such skills
will be constantly put to the test in your life, whether in
confronting conflicts within and between states, leading
peacekeeping operations or making recommendations
about Defence equipment or strategy.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOgY
The study of Information Systems concentrates on
the application of computer systems to information
processing and control. It is distinguished from Computer
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 18 10/8/07 5:10:15 PM
��Science in that it accentuates the role of information in
the service of management, and thus is interested in the
analysis, design and implementation of systems rather
than the computer itself.
A ‘systems view’ is taken throughout, where the
organisational context for an information system is
stressed. In the first two years the teaching is principally
in the areas of information analysis and the mastery of
the tools and techniques used to model systems and then
implement them. The final year concentrates on software
project lifecycle management. This third-year work is
strongly oriented to Defence-related computing projects,
with direct Service input and guidance. Typical examples
of projects which have been undertaken include the
analysis of computing support requirements, the design
and implementation of various data graphical applications,
and the construction of websites and virtual environments
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Modern Defence technology and operations depend
critically on Information Technology (IT). All Military
Officers need to develop high-level skills in IT. By studying
Information Systems, you will gain the technical skills
and understanding of IT necessary for them to exploit,
develop and manage information systems. You can analyse
problems and develop solutions, systematically and from a
system-orientated point of view.
You can select and manage IT resources, manage
IT projects, and are skilled users of IT themselves.
Information Systems graduates have experience with
information technology in a Defence environment, through
Defence-related IT project work. Information Systems
graduates have used their skills in areas as diverse as
logistics, supply, communications, and management of
IT resources and infrastructure in military bases. More
Senior Officers have been involved with the IT aspects of
acquisition projects and the development of policies for
information management.
INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN A SERvICE CAREER
Modern Defence technology and operations depend critically
on Information Technology (IT). All Military Officers need
to develop high-level skills in IT. By studying Information
Systems, you will gain the technical skills and understanding
of IT necessary for them to exploit, develop and manage
information systems. You can analyse problems and develop
solutions, systematically and from a system-orientated point
of view.
You can select and manage IT resources, manage IT
projects, and are skilled users of IT themselves. Information
Systems graduates have experience with information
technology in a Defence environment, through Defence-
related IT project work. Information Systems graduates
have used their skills in areas as diverse as logistics, supply,
communications, and management of IT resources and
infrastructure in military bases. More Senior Officers have
been involved with the IT aspects of acquisition projects and
the development of policies for information management.
COMpUTER SCIENCE
The study of Computer Science is intimately linked with the
study of the modern digital computer, its design, operational
characteristics and control. Teaching is concentrated
principally in the areas of algorithm specification, data
structures, programming languages, operating systems,
computer networks and artificial intelligence. The final year of
your three-year major concentrates on software engineering,
project design and implementation, and is oriented strongly to
Defence-related computing projects, with direct Service input
and guidance. Typical examples which have been undertaken
include resource allocation studies for the RAAF, system
specification for the RAN Command Centre, war-gaming
projects for the Army, RAAF Staff College and the ADF
Warfare Centre.
The study of Computer Science gives you a deep
understanding of the computers and computer systems that
underpin information technology, on which modern Defence
technology and operations depend so critically.
COMpUTER SCIENCE IN A SERvICE CAREER
As a Computer Science graduate, you’ll know about the
architecture and operating systems of computers and can
work in teams to design and build large computer systems.
Software engineering, signals and telecommunications are
particular areas where Computer Science graduates have
found employment.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 19 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
20 Throughout your career as an Officer and a Computer
Science graduate, you will be responsible for the installation
and operation of local area networks using state-of-the-art
computer equipment. In an Army context, working within
the Royal Australian Signals (RASigs) Corps, graduates will
assist in providing commanders with the means of controlling
the battlefield using road and air despatch services, radio,
microwave and satellite links.
OpERATIONS RESEARCH AND STATISTICS
Operations Research and Statistics (OR&S) involves applying
mathematical models and management science to the
solution of problems encountered by individuals, groups
and organisations. As well as a huge number of military
applications, the techniques you will study are also applicable
in the civilian world, for example in banking, mining, the
oil industry and transportation. OR&S provides numerous
mathematical tools which can greatly aid decision-making
processes.
Study in OR&S is currently only available as a minor (i.e. over
two years).
OpERATIONS RESEARCH AND STATISTICS IN A SERvICE CAREER
ADF Officers and civilians need to be information technology
literate, to think logically and make well reasoned decisions.
These skills can be developed in OR&S. The Army Simulation
Wing at the Land Warfare Development Centre employs
officers with Operations Research skills.
MANAgEMENT
Management is about the processes of good decision-
making relating to human, financial and physical resources
in organisations. The aim is to understand how to work
successfully towards achieving the best outcomes for an
organisation, taking into account competing opportunities and
continuous change in an uncertain business environment.
The study of Management also requires an understanding of
how the world is changing outside the organisation and how
those changes should influence the way the organisation
operates and interacts with its external environment.
Courses available to you range across a number of
management-related fields, with students able to study in the
areas of project management, logistics, finance, accounting,
human resource management and business law.
MANAgEMENT IN A SERvICE CAREER
Studying Management prepares you for future management
and leadership roles both within the ADF and for later life
outside the Services. Skills and knowledge gained over the
course of the degree in the areas of project management,
logistics and procurement can be put into immediate effect
and are of vital importance to the ADF. Learning about
management also develops valuable general thinking,
problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS
Mathematics and Statistics teach you how to define a
problem with precision, analyse it logically and assess
the answer and its implications. You’ll cover fundamental
mathematical methods (such as differential equations, linear
algebra, optimisation and probability) and learn how to use
these methods in a wide range of practical applications.
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS IN A SERvICE CAREER
The skills developed through studying Mathematics and
Statistics are universal and of value to anyone who has
to face complex problems and make decisions, including
Military Officers in an environment which is becoming
increasingly dependent on technology. Application areas
such as optimisation, projectile motion and biological
mathematics are directly relevant to a career in a modern
Defence Force.
OCEANOgRApHY
Oceanography challenges you to think seriously about the
environmental influences of the oceans and related global
environment. You’ll develop an understanding of the geology,
biology, chemistry, physics and ecology of the oceans,
the coastal environment and the interactions between the
oceans, continents, atmosphere and biosphere.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 20 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2�OCEANOgRApHY IN A SERvICE CAREER
A knowledge of Oceanography is directly relevant for
Defence personnel who must operate in, on or over the
oceans. The discipline has a wide range of applications not
only in the Navy but also in the Army (for example when
conducting beach landings) and the Air Force (for example
in the surveillance of submarines).
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is a central science that allows us to develop
an understanding of the natural world and create new
technologies. Chemistry is the study of matter and its
interactions at the atomic level.
Chemistry underpins defence technology in all areas, from
lasers and high-speed computers to food science and
energetic materials. Level I Chemistry courses provide you
with a general, systematic introduction to the molecular
nature of matter and the properties and reactions of
atoms, ions and molecules. In upper-level courses, the
major areas of Chemistry (Physical, Inorganic and Organic
Chemistry) are developed, along with Biological Chemistry,
Environmental Chemistry and other areas of direct military
interest. Laboratory work is an important means of
developing critical thinking, practical, computational and
communication skills.
CHEMISTRY IN A SERvICE CAREER
As professional managers of people and resources, you’ll
be working in a highly technical organisation in diverse
environments. Having a practical understanding of the
molecular nature of matter, combined with the generic
scientific skills of experiment, critical analysis, logic and
communication will assist you in employing and evaluating
an increasing array of materials used in modern defence
and operations systems.
pHYSICS
Physics is the systematic study of the basic properties of
matter. Its scope ranges from elementary particles within
atoms to the nature and origin of the Universe itself. It forms
the basis of numerous modern technologies and develops
skills in the application of the processes of scientific enquiry,
problem solving and use of technical equipment. If your
interest lies in topics such as: astronomy, meteorology,
sonar, infrared sensing, lasers, radar, advanced materials,
propulsion and navigation should seriously consider studying
Physics at UNSW @ ADFA.
pHYSICS IN A SERvICE CAREER
Physics provides you with the technical versatility and
understanding necessary for you to employ and exploit
the advanced technology at the core of modern defence
systems and operations.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 21 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
22 BACHELOR OF BUSINESS (BBUS)UAC CODE
450009
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 75.00 or ENTER 75.00 or ITI 75.00 or OP1-12
DURATION OF DEgREE
Three years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics if you will be entering into the Army,
or taking Mathematics, Physics or Oceanography
as part of your Bachelor of Business, AND
• Physics if you are taking Physics as part of your
Bachelor of Business.
OvERvIEW
The Bachelor of Business is designed to enhance business
acumen among future leaders and managers in the ADF
and to provide them with the capacity to interact effectively
with external business providers. It aims to lay solid
foundations in communication, numeracy and general
problem solving capabilities. The degree is built within
a specifically business-oriented context of study, and
develops students’ knowledge in a diverse range of areas
associated with organisational management and leadership.
When taking this degree, you will become familiar with
bodies of knowledge and develop graduate attributes,
giving you a much-strengthened capacity to manage
Defence business throughout their Service careers.
DEgREE CONTENT
The Bachelor of Business is a three-year program at pass
level, and a four-year program at Honours level. The degree
structure balances business-related courses and other
broader study. An innovation within the degree is the idea
of integrating courses which have the aim of developing
the key graduate attribute of a questioning mind equipped
to seek answers, solve problems and make decisions and
judgements in a business context. Required courses within
the program are designed to provide you with capability
across a range of relevant business areas, providing an
understanding of contemporary business functions and
knowledge bases, including project management, human
resource management, finance, accounting, business
law, economics and quantitative analysis. In addition to
core business courses, it is necessary for you to take six
business-related electives, some of which are offered by
Schools other than the School of Business.
You may be able to achieve a particular emphasis in some
areas (economics and information systems are possible
examples) within the degree, with electives available in
areas such as finance, accounting, logistics, information
systems selection, leadership, and economic growth and
fluctuations.
BUSINESS IN A SERvICE CAREER
A Bachelor of Business positions you to work within
the business processes of the ADF and to interact with
external service providers. This is of particular value to you
when, at some stage of your career, you become involved
in acquisition and procurement, project management,
logistics and the management of people.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 22 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2�BACHELOR OF ENgINEERINg (BE) IN AERONAUTICAL ENgINEERINgUAC CODE
450003
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 85.00 or ENTER 85.00 or ITI 85.00 or OP1-8
DURATION OF DEgREE
Four years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics, AND
• Physics, AND
• Chemistry is desirable, but not essential.
OvERvIEW
Aeronautical Engineering is the study of the design,
development, manufacture, maintenance and control of
vehicles operating in the earth’s atmosphere or in outer
space. Such vehicles require the highest standard of
engineering as they have to be very light relative to the
loads they carry, and yet be strong and reliable as the
consequences of failure are drastic. Aircraft are critical to
the operations of all the Services in the Australian Defence
Force, and Aeronautical Engineers are employed in all
Services, although naturally the majority are in the Royal
Australian Air Force.
Although at present the ADF does not design or build
aircraft, as an ADF engineer, you have to ensure that aircraft
are supplied and maintained to the highest standards, using
the correct parts and materials installed with best-practice
workmanship. At the same time you have to manage these
activities with extreme efficiency as maintaining an air
fleet during operations is time-critical. The aeronautical
maintenance engineer therefore needs high-level project
management as well as an engineering expertise.
The Aeronautical Engineering program has been
developed to meet the needs of the ADF and covers the
design, reliability and maintenance of fixed-wing and
rotary-wing aircraft.
DEgREE CONTENT
The BE program in Aeronautical Engineering is firmly
based on Mathematics and the Physical Sciences in
Year 1 and the Engineering Sciences in Year 2, leading
into an engineering approach to analysis, design and
operation in the later years. The major streams of the
course are aerodynamics, stability and control, structures,
materials, airworthiness, design and management. You are
encouraged to develop resourceful and innovative attitudes
throughout the course especially in your final-year thesis.
Recent projects have included laser-based methods for
identifying structural weaknesses and development of
SCRAMJET engines. A number of elective courses are
offered in the final year to allow you to explore particular
areas of interest.
AERONAUTICAL ENgINEERINg IN A SERvICE CAREER
Navy BE (Aero) graduates are required for maintenance
and repair, modifications, operational deployments and
airworthiness of Navy’s fleet of rotary-wing aircraft. Army
BE (Aero) graduates are most likely to be involved in the
maintenance and repair of the Army’s rapidly growing
fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. Air Force
BE(Aero) graduates may be involved in the operation and
maintenance of aircraft and then become responsible for
the airworthiness and modification of aircraft and engines,
or the acquisition and introduction of new equipment into
the Service.
pROFESSIONAL RECOgNITION
Graduates from UNSW @ ADFA with an engineering
degree are eligible for membership of Australia’s
engineering institution, Engineers Australia. Engineers
Australia is not only well recognised in Australia but also
by other engineering organisations around the globe. This
means that you have qualifications that are recognised at
both a national and international level.
Professional engineers in Australia strive for a level
of recognition called ‘chartered status’ and when it is
achieved, they become known as Chartered Professional
Engineers. Engineers in the Australian Defence Force
(regardless of service) are some of the most operationally-
focused and experienced engineers in the country.
It should come as no surprise to discover that Engineers
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 23 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2� from the Defence Force make up a significant portion of
Chartered Professional Engineers in this country.
The Australian Defence Force is famous for providing
Engineers with exciting and challenging jobs but also for
supporting their continuing professional development.
This means that you start your career well recognised
professionally, and continue to grow and develop as an
Engineer for your entire Defence Force career.
BACHELOR OF ENgINEERINg (BE) IN CIvIL ENgINEERINgUAC CODE
450004
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 85.00 or ENTER 85.00 or ITI 85.00 or OP1-8
DURATION OF DEgREE
Four years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics, AND
• Physics, AND
• Chemistry is desirable, but not essential.
OvERvIEW
The general training in science and technology offered
by a Civil Engineering degree provides an ideal basis
for a career in modern society. In addition to the direct
employment in one of the many specialities of Civil
Engineering, many related careers are possible. As the
armed services become progressively more technologically
based, the education provided in a Civil Engineering degree
will be in greater demand.
DEgREE CONTENT
First-year studies in Civil Engineering are firmly based on
mathematics and the physical sciences. In second year,
greater attention is placed on the engineering sciences
that lead into an engineering approach to analysis and
design and engineering management in the last two years
of the degree. You also participate in a wide range of
industry-based field trips and exercises to broaden your
understanding of Civil Engineering.
There are nine major streams to the course which include:
structural engineering, materials engineering, geotechnical
engineering, water engineering, environmental engineering,
engineering surveying, construction of civil engineering
works, transport engineering and the management of
engineering projects. The final year of study incorporates
either a research project in innovative methods of Civil
Engineering, or a program of real-world design in a
simulated design office.
CIvIL ENgINEERINg IN A SERvICE CAREER
Graduates in Civil Engineering can take responsibility for
the design and construction of infrastructure, base facilities
and field engineering associated with Defence projects
and military activities. Environmental management plays
a major part in these projects. Civil Engineers in Defence
are also involved with development and peacekeeping
activities in the South Pacific and elsewhere in the world.
Most Army graduates will join the Royal Australian
Engineers (RAE) in which they will have a very challenging
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 24 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2�career. As well as providing infrastructure within Australian
borders, much of their early career is spent in overseas
deployments. Army Civil Engineers have played key roles
in East Timor, Iraq, Solomon Islands, Banda Aceh – in fact
anywhere Australia is engaged in conflict, peacekeeping
or disaster recovery, RAE’s Civil Engineers are there
supplying clean water, constructing accommodation,
building airfields, restoring harbours, improving defence
against nuclear, biological and chemical attack, etc.
Royal Australian Air Force Civil Engineers play a major
role in managing the infrastructure of the Air Force. The
projects they are responsible for could be of a specialised
engineering nature (aircraft pavements, hangars, hospitals
and pollution control) or they could be responsible for
management of whole facilities.
pROFESSIONAL RECOgNITION
As Graduates from UNSW @ ADFA with an engineering
degree, you are eligible for membership of Australia’s
engineering institution, Engineers Australia. More details on
professional recognition appearing on page 23.
BACHELOR OF ENgINEERINg (BE) IN ELECTRICAL ENgINEERINgUAC CODE
450005
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 85.00 or ENTER 85.00 or ITI 85.00 or OP1-8
DURATION OF DEgREE
Four years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics, AND
• Physics, AND
• Chemistry is desirable, but not essential.
OvERvIEW
The Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering
is built on a foundation of mathematics, computer
science and physical science. A small component of
Electrical Engineering is introduced in the first year, with
progressively larger components in second and third
years. The final year is devoted exclusively to Electrical
Engineering courses. In their final year, you’ll have the
option to specialise in areas such as communications,
surveillance and radar, computer engineering and guided
weapons electronics. You’ll also undertake a major project
supervised by a member of academic staff.
UNSW @ ADFA provides one of the best Electrical
Engineering programs available and is supported by a well-
equipped laboratory and excellent library facilities.
DEgREE CONTENT
Study for the Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering
degree follows a prescribed program structure with some
choice in the final year. Each year of the program comprises
a number of School-based courses as well as courses taught
by other Schools within UNSW @ ADFA. You’ll undertake
courses in mathematics, physics and chemistry taught by the
School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences.
You’ll also undertake courses in computer science taught
within the School of Information Technology and Electrical
Engineering. Electrical engineering courses cover topics
such as circuits and systems, digital systems, electronics,
communications, antennas and signal propagation, control and
power. Specialist courses tailored to match your future careers
in the military include systems engineering, avionics and
guided weapons electronics.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 25 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2� ELECTRICAL ENgINEERINg IN A SERvICE CAREER
In conjunction with the technical Sailors in their charge, a
Weapons Electrical Engineer in the Royal Australian Navy
(RAN) is responsible for looking after weapons systems,
communication systems and sensor systems on the
Navy’s warships. Opportunities also exist for you to join
the RAN submarine service and serve in one of Australia’s
submarines. Regardless of your choice, Electrical
Engineers face many challenges from these complex
warships and submarines, and from harsh environments in
which you may work. Over time, there will be opportunities
for a range of “shore” postings, which may include working
on projects to acquire new warships or new naval systems
to go onto Australia’s existing warships and submarines.
On graduation, as a junior Army Electrical Engineering
Officer, you’ll choose between the Royal Australian
Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) or Royal
Australian Signals (RASigs) corps. Regardless of your
choice, you’ll find yourself leading a number of technical
Soldiers responsible for maintenance and support of any
one of a number of systems as diverse as rotary-winged
aircraft, ground-based telecommunications systems,
ground-based radar and weapons systems. These systems
might be on a base or in the field. You may eventually
find yourself employed as engineering authorities in the
acquisition projects that keep the Australian Army at the
forefront of technology.
As an Air Force Electrical Engineer, you’ll have a fantastic
range of employment options when they graduate from
university. You may choose to work with aircraft on
systems responsible for airborne electrical generation
and distribution, radar and weapons systems, flight
controls systems and airborne communications systems.
Aerospace Engineer Officer – Electronics will be involved
with maintenance, technical investigations and trial
modifications to aircraft. Other engineers may choose to
work with ground-based technology like radar, satellite
or communications systems. Regardless of their choice,
graduates generally lead a group of highly-skilled
technical Airmen during their early years and move into
technical acquisition and project management roles later
in their careers.
pROFESSIONAL RECOgNITION
As a graduate from UNSW @ ADFA with an engineering
degree, you are eligible for membership of Australia’s
engineering institution, Engineers Australia. More details on
professional recognition appearing on page 23.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 26 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
27BACHELOR OF ENgINEERINg (BE) IN MECHANICAL ENgINEERINgUAC CODE
450006
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 85.00 or ENTER 85.00 or ITI 85.00 or OP1-8
DURATION OF DEgREE
Four years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics, AND
• Physics, AND
• Chemistry is desirable, but not essential.
OvERvIEW
The technical challenge of harnessing and utilising the
immense new power source discovered in the last couple
of hundred years has given a rise to the profession of
Mechanical Engineering. A core task of a Mechanical
Engineer is to devise new and better ways to extract
mechanical power from heat and to use that mechanical
power to perform a useful task. This also concerns machine
control, (including automatic control), lubrication, heating
and cooling (including air conditioning) and vibration of
machines. Mechanical Engineers are required to understand
a number of fields, such as thermodynamics; dynamics
of mechanical systems; properties of solid materials; fluid
dynamics; design; and, management.
DEgREE CONTENT
The Bachelor of Engineering program in Mechanical
Engineering is firmly based on Mathematics and the
Physical Sciences in Year 1 and the Engineering Sciences
in Year 2, leading into an engineering approach to analysis,
design and operation in the later years. The major streams
of the course are Dynamics, Fluids, Structures, Materials
and Design. During the first and second years of the
program, you may go on appropriate industrial visits.
Specialisation in Mechanical Engineering increases as
the degree program progresses. At the final year, thesis
projects and elective courses are offered, permitting
further specialisation in particular areas.
You are encouraged to develop resourceful and innovative
attitudes throughout the course especially in your final-
year thesis. A number of elective courses are available
in the final year. Electives may be selected from courses
offered in other schools, subject to the approval of the
Head of Schools concerned.
MECHANICAL ENgINEERINg IN A SERvICE CAREER
All three services employ Mechanical Engineers
to maintain and repair an extremely diverse and
sophisticated range of equipment, including land
transport vehicles, ships, tanks, armoured personnel
carriers and weapons systems. No other organisation in
Australia has such a complex and challenging equipment
inventory operating under such demanding conditions.
As a Navy BE (Mech), you will undertake courses to enhance
their professional development as Naval Officers and Marine
Engineers. Marine Engineering Officers are the technical
authority on board ship and responsible for the ship’s
structures, propulsion systems, electrical generation and
distribution, domestic and associated mechanical services.
Your responsibilities will also include the main and auxiliary
machinery, engines, automatic and remote control systems,
hydraulics, air conditioning and refrigeration, ventilation
systems and electrical power generation and conversion
equipment.
As an Army BE (Mech), you can expect to be posted to
the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
(RAEME), Armour, or Infantry Corps. Typically you will
work in either mobile or static workshops or headquarters
or be involved with equipment procurement. The Corps
provides the repair and recovery service for all equipment
operated by the Army, including aircraft and watercraft.
RAEME Soldiers repair and maintain equipment as
diverse as tanks, trucks and armoured personnel carriers,
helicopters, radios, radars and computers, artillery guns
and missile systems.
As an Air Force BE (Mech), you’ll play a major role in
managing the equipment of the Air Force.
pROFESSIONAL RECOgNITION
As a graduate from UNSW @ ADFA with an engineering
degree, you are eligible for membership to Australia’s
engineering institution, Engineers Australia. More details on
professional recognition appearing on page 23.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 27 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2� BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOgY (AERONAUTICAL ENgINEERINg) (BTECH (AERO))UAC CODE
450007
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 85.00 or ENTER 85.00 or ITI 85.00 or OP1-8
DURATION OF DEgREE
Three years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics, AND
• Physics, AND
• Chemistry is desirable, but not essential.
OvERvIEW
This degree program is designed if you wish to work in
the ADF as an Aeronautical Engineering Technologist but
not necessarily as a fully-qualified Engineer. Engineers
Australia accredits this three-year technology program
at the Engineering Technologist level. At the discretion
of the Services, there is provision for you if you have
completed the BTech and wish to upgrade to a Bachelor
of Engineering Degree in Aeronautical Engineering by
undertaking eighteen months of further study at a later
stage. This degree should not be confused with the BTech
(Av) degree which is designed specifically for Pilots.
DEgREE CONTENT
The BTech (Aero) program is very similar to the first three
years of the BE (Aero) programs. The program is organised
into streams developed for basic science/engineering
principles and moving into specialised applications over
three years. These streams include mathematics, computing,
physics, material properties, structures, dynamics and
control, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, design and
management, as well as discipline-specific streams such
as aircraft systems and propulsion. The courses offer
opportunity for you to make industrial visits and gain a great
deal of practical laboratory experience. You will undertake
a project in their third year to explore independently an
advanced topic of aerospace technology.
AERONAUTICAL TECHNOLOgY IN A SERvICE CAREER
The BTech (Aero) is primarily undertaken by RAAF
Officer Cadets who intend to become Aircrew and wish
to enhance their understanding of the operation and
performance of aircraft. However the program is also
available to Cadets in any of the Services and graduates
are employed in many technical branches of the ADF.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 28 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
2�BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOgY (AvIATION) (BTECH (Av))UAC CODE
450008
REqUIRED ENTRANCE SCORE
UAI 80.75 or ENTER 80.75 or ITI 80.75 or OP1-10
DURATION OF DEgREE
Three years full-time
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
• English, AND
• Mathematics, AND
• Chemistry OR Physics.
OvERvIEW
The Bachelor of Technology (Av) program is designed for
potential Pilots entering the ADF. Acceptance into the degree
is conditional on passing aptitude tests conducted by the
ADF’s Basic Flying Training School. The program covers
both the technical and organisational aspects of flying, with
a concentration on the safety of aviation as a whole and
highlights the safe practices of the components that make up
aviation: for example, pilot, maintenance and air traffic control.
Engineers Australia accredits this three-year technology
program at the Engineering Technologist level. (Note: BTech
(Av) is not available to Army Officer Cadets.)
DEgREE CONTENT
The Bachelor of Technology degrees follow a prescribed
program structure as determined by the technology
program chosen. Your first year at UNSW @ ADFA is
similar to the first year of the BE (Aero) degree with its
fundamentals of science and introductory air technology.
Your second year at UNSW @ ADFA is designed to
provide you with a range of specialist courses in the
field of Aviation including structures, aerodynamics,
meteorology and air safety. Practical components of the
course make use of the School’s instrumented Cessna
and a fully programmable Aviation Safety Studio (large-
projection simulator). The final year includes a project
where you study an important aspect of aviation or air
technology as well as the flying component of the degree
conducted at the ADF’s training establishments. If you
fail the flying training component of the BTech (Av), you
have the opportunity to complete your degree either at the
UNSW main campus in Kensington or at ADFA.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 29 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
�0 THE CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE STUDENTS pROgRAMSCDF pROgRAM FOR ACADEMICALLY gIFTED STUDENTS
The Australian Defence Force Academy offers an exciting
range of undergraduate degree options if you are a high-
performer in Arts, Business, Engineering, Science or
Technology. Known as the Chief of Defence Force Students
Programs (CDFSP), these unique programs have been
designed to provide academically-gifted students with
a rich and challenging educational experience that will
develop their critical thinking and research skills. If you
are eligible for the CDFSP, you will undertake individual
research projects working closely with academic staff on
projects from their area of interest. Upon completion of
your degree, you will receive a unique award that reflects
your involvement in this outstanding program. The CDFSPs
are offered across all five schools of the Academy and is
an exceptional opportunity for gifted students to reach
their full academic potential.
ENTRY AND pROgRESSION REqUIREMENTS
To gain entry to the CDFSP, you must apply through the
University Admissions Centre and achieve the following
entrance score for admission to the programs:
UAC Code Degree UAI OP
450010Bachelor of ArtsBachelor of Business
min. 95
min. 95
1-4
1-4
450011
Bachelor of Science
Bachelor of Engineering (all specialisations)
Bachelor of Technology (Aeronautical)
min. 98
min. 98
min. 98
1-2
1-2
1-2
If you do not initially obtain a high enough entrance score
for admission into the CDFSP, you may apply to transfer
from a standard Academy degree to the program if you
achieve outstanding academic results during your first year
of study at the Academy.
All students enrolling in the CDFSP are expected to
maintain a high level of academic and military performance
over all sessions in order to remain within the program.
This requirement varies across the different degree
programs. If you do not maintain the required level of
performance, you will be transferred to the standard
degree program offered at the Academy with credit for all
courses completed.
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE
The assumed knowledge requirements of the CDFSP
programs are the same as the corresponding standard degree.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 30 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM
�2 LIFE AFTER ADFAThe range of jobs on offer in the ADF is nothing short
of vast. There are all kinds of Officer positions available
to you in many different fields from Administration and
Logistics through to Aviation, Intelligence and Engineering.
You could become a Seaman Officer in the Navy, a Civil
Engineer in the Army, or even a Pilot in the Air Force.
There are hundreds of exciting jobs to choose from in the
Defence Force. You nominate which job you wish to pursue
as part of the ADFA application process. The exception is
the Army, where you will nominate your preferred position
while at the Royal Military College (RMC) Duntroon. Upon
graduation from ADFA you will go on to complete your
initial employment training for your chosen career.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 32 10/8/07 5:10:26 PM
�� ADFA NAvY CAREERSAerospace Engineer Officer
Aerospace Engineer – Weapons Electrical Aircraft
Aviation Officer – Observer
Aviation Officer – Pilot
Marine Engineer Officer
Seaman Officer
Supply Officer
Weapons Electrical Engineer Officer
AEROSpACE ENgINEER OFFICER
The Navy operates some of the most sophisticated military
helicopters in the world. As an Aerospace Engineer Officer
you are responsible for design engineering, configuration
control, software development and the modification and
maintenance of the Navy’s aircraft, gas turbine engines
and associated flight control, navigation, communications
and weapons guidance systems. There are also
postgraduate opportunities in Aerostructure Design and
Flight Test Engineering as well as overseas training and
posting opportunities in the UK and USA.
AEROSpACE ENgINEER – WEApONS ELECTRICAL AIRCRAFT
Weapons Electrical Aircraft (WEA) Engineer Officers
undertake a four-year Bachelor of Engineering Degree
in Electrical Engineering. Depending on your academic
performance, Honours may be available during your final
year. In your first year you will complete the New Entry
Officer Course (NEOC) program, which are a series of
attachments, similar to industry practice, to show you the
scope of the fleet you are joining. Each are designed to
give you a highly exciting and motivating experience and
prepare you for your naval career. WEA Engineer Officers
are responsible for all the electronic and communication
systems of the Navy’s fleet of helicopters, their integrated
weapons systems, unmanned target aircraft and flight
simulators. You could eventually be assigned to work in
logistics management, project development, modification
design and integration or software systems analysis.
AvIATION OFFICER – OBSERvER
As an Observer in the Navy you’ll be responsible for
helicopter warfare. You’ll also function as a Co-pilot,
working in the areas of air navigation, contact assessment
and evaluation, weapons employment and tactical co-
ordination. Observers also have managerial, logistic
and administrative responsibilities. You could eventually
command a squadron of helicopters or be involved in
aircraft trials or project development. Phase One of
Observer training involves Air Navigation in fixed-wing and
trainer aircraft whilst Phase Two involves training in rotary
wing aircraft. In addition there is Combat Survival Training
as well as Flying Training in a specific Navy operational
helicopter. The Navy Observers’ Course also involves
Aviation Medicine training.
AvIATION OFFICER – pILOT
Aviation Officer – Pilots are responsible for flying
the Navy’s helicopters. As a Pilot you fly a variety of
helicopters, which include the Seahawk, Super Seasprite,
Sea King, Squirrel and Kiowa. The Seahawk and Super
Seasprite provide the opportunity to use state-of-the-art
glass cockpits with a level of sophistication comparable
to that found on an F/A-18 jetfighter and other modern
fixed-wing aircraft. You’ll have the challenge of flying in
demanding conditions – day and night, in all weather
conditions, from the constrained environment of a ship’s
flight-deck. Before joining ships at sea, Navy Pilots
undergo 26 weeks of Basic Military Flying Training at
British Aerospace Flight Training Australia in Tamworth,
NSW. This is followed by 40 weeks of Military Flying
Training at Pearce RAAF Base in WA. Trainee Pilots cover
all areas of aviation and navigation studies including the
Science and Mathematics of Aircraft Operations, Combat
Survival Training, Military Flying Training, Rotary-Wing
Aircraft Training, Airmanship, Air Traffic Control, Aviation
Medicine and Helicopter Flying. Upon completion you are
awarded your ‘wings’.
MARINE ENgINEER OFFICER
Marine Engineer Officers are in charge of the
mechanical systems on board a ship, and the structural
integrity of the ship’s hull and heavy power distribution.
This takes in everything from diesel to gas turbine
propulsion machinery, diesel power generators and
hydraulic systems. Marine Engineers also lead a team
of technicians who repair and maintain this equipment.
As a Marine Engineer Officer you’ll undertake the
Marine Engineer Application Course which familiarises
you with relevant Navy equipment and procedures.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 34 10/8/07 5:10:35 PM
��SEAMAN OFFICER
Seaman Officers control the movements and running
of the ship. As a Seaman Officer you are trained in
navigation and warfare. Seaman Officers are the only
people given the opportunity to become Commanding
Officers of a warship. The first step is to become an
‘Officer of the Watch’ working on the bridge, driving and
navigating the ship. You’ll later be given the opportunity to
specialise in the areas of navigation or warfare. Seaman
Officers also perform the duties of managing a group of
Sailors, looking after their welfare and advising them on
their day-to-day duties. The Seaman Officers’ Application
Course (SEAAC) consists of four phases. Phase One
teaches the basics of a Seaman Officer’s role and includes
an initial sea training period. Phase Two consists of a
period at sea consolidating specialist training previously
covered in Phase One. Phase Three comprises a shore
phase focusing on navigation and bridge management
followed by a six-month sea posting. Phase Four is a
shore posting comprised of bridge simulation and warfare
training. Once qualified as a Seaman Officer, you may
further your training to sub-specialise as a Principal
Warfare Officer, Navigator, Hydrographic Surveyor, Mine
Warfare Officer, Meteorology/Oceanography Officer,
Clearance Diver or Submariner.
SUppLY OFFICER
Supply Officers ensure the Navy’s ships, submarines,
aircraft and personnel receive the resources required
to perform their operations. Trained in logistics and
management, you’ll control cash disbursement, personnel
management, logistics planning, catering and financial
accounting. The Supply Officers’ Course consists of
four phases. Phase One provides an introduction to the
role of the Supply Department. Phase Two consists of a
training period at sea. Phase Three focuses on Operational
Logistics Support, while Phase Four is on-the-job training,
usually conducted at sea.
WEApONS ELECTRICAL ENgINEER OFFICER
Weapons Electrical Engineer Officers are responsible for all
the electronics and weapons systems on board warships.
This includes all the communication and navigation
equipment as well as the weapons and combat data
systems. This consists of radar, sonar, missile launchers
and computer equipment. You’ll also lead a team of
technicians who repair and maintain this equipment.
Weapons Electrical Engineer Officers undertake a Weapons
Engineer Course. The course covers learning how to
maintain gun and missile fire-control systems, navigation
systems, air and ground communications, as well as radar
and combat data systems.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 35 10/8/07 5:10:35 PM
�7ADFA ARMY CAREERSArmoured Corps Officer
Artillery Officer
Electrical and Mechanical Engineer Corps Officer
– Electrical Engineering Officer
– Mechanical Engineering Officer
Engineer Corps Officer
– Aeronautical Engineering Officer
– Civil Engineer
– Geomatic Engineer
Infantry Officer
Intelligence Corps Officer
Military Police Officer
Ordnance Corps Officer
Pilot – General Service Officer
Signals Corps Officer
– Computer Science Officer
Transport Corps Officer
ARMOURED CORpS OFFICER
As an Armoured Corps Officer, you’ll join the Royal
Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC). You’ll take command
of a troop of the Army’s armoured vehicles, which could
be a Leopard Main Battle Tank, Armoured Personnel Carrier
or Light Armoured Vehicle. It’s an exciting job that calls for
strong leadership skills, thorough tactical knowledge and
a lightning-fast ability to analyse and respond to complex
and changing situations.
ARTILLERY OFFICER
As an Officer in the Royal Australian Artillery (RAA), you’ll
play a vital role on the battlefield. You’ll take command of
your own team of Soldiers, and support other elements of
the Army by establishing firepower supremacy. You’ll be
involved not only in the use of a range of weapons including
field guns and missile systems, but also in locating enemy
artillery and providing meteorological and survey data.
ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENgINEER CORpS OFFICER
There are two Engineer Corps specialisations which make
up the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
(RAEME): Electrical and Mechanical. Both perform a vital
role in keeping the Army’s hardware and equipment at a
high state of operational readiness.
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING OFFICER
Electrical Engineers are an essential element of the
Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
(RAEME) Corps. As an Electrical Engineering Officer,
your initial posting is usually as a platoon commander
within a major maintenance unit, where you’ll be
responsible for the technical work and administrative
needs of your tradespeople. Degree-qualified
Officers may become involved in project design and
development roles.
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING OFFICER
As a Mechanical Engineer in the Royal Australian
Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) Corps,
you’ll be responsible for maintaining the Army’s fleet of
modern hardware and equipment. You could be operating
from mobile workshops on operations or in static
workshops in support areas. Degree-qualified Officers
may be employed in design and development roles.
ENgINEER CORpS OFFICER
As an Officer in the Royal Australian Engineers, your job
will be to maintain the mobility of your own forces while
denying similar mobility to the enemy. Your work will
encompass structural, civil, mechanical and electrical
engineering. This could include tasks like constructing and
maintaining roads and airfields, demolishing bridges, and
providing services such as water, power generation and
fire-fighting.
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING OFFICER
Aircraft now make up a substantial part of the Army’s
equipment inventory. In fact, the Army is now the
second largest aircraft fleet operator and the largest
helicopter operator in Australia. As an Aeronautical
Engineering Officer, you’ll be in charge of a team of
tradespeople that provides maintenance, modification
and recovery support for the Army’s airborne fleet.
CIVIL ENGINEER
As a Civil Engineer in the Royal Australian Engineers
(RAE), your first posting is likely to be to a construction
or combat engineering unit, where you’ll command
and manage a troop of tradespeople and Field
Engineer Soldiers. You may oversee construction,
repair and maintenance of roads, bridges and airfields.
Subsequently, your role may be broadened to include
duties in the engineering
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 37 10/8/07 5:10:44 PM
�� GEOMATIC ENGINEER
While conventional topographic mapping continues at a
high level, the demand for digital mapping is taking over.
As a Survey Officer, you can be part of this revolution.
You’ll work with digital topographic products to
support Army systems, all the way from command and
communication to navigation and training simulation.
INFANTRY OFFICER
Seek out the enemy. Seize and hold ground. Repel attacks
by day and by night. Fight on regardless of the season,
the weather, or the terrain. There’s no doubt being an
Infantry Officer is a major challenge, requiring high
standards of mental and physical toughness while leading
a platoon of Soldiers. On graduation from the Royal Military
College (RMC) Duntroon, you’ll be appointed to the Royal
Australian Infantry Corps and can expect to spend your
first two years in an infantry battalion.
INTELLIgENCE CORpS OFFICER
As an Intelligence Corps Officer, you’ll become an expert
at providing strategic, operational and tactical intelligence.
Your job will be to collect, process and analyse information,
and you’ll work closely with other intelligence personnel to
have this information analysed before an operation can be
carried out successfully. Later in your career, you’ll have
the opportunity to specialise in areas like combat, counter
intelligence, imagery analysis and linguistics.
MILITARY pOLICE OFFICER
As a Military Police Officer, you’ll carry out both military and
civil duties, including assisting with local Defence matters,
controlling traffic, acting as security for military installations
and convoys, and protecting VIPs and assisting in the
evacuation of prisoners of war. You’ll also be responsible for
detecting and investigating crime.
ORDNANCE CORpS OFFICER
As an Ordnance Corps Officer, your list of responsibilities will
include overseeing the provision, management, warehousing
and issuing of all Army equipment. You may also specialise
in demolition and disposal of explosives and co-ordinate
the salvaging of battle-damaged equipment, the re-packing
of parachutes, other logistic functions and numerous
associated support services.
pILOT – gENERAL SERvICE OFFICER
As an Officer in the Army Aviation Corps, you’ll have a
broad range of duties encompassing flying, non-flying and
command positions. You’ll operate and control both fixed
and rotary-wing aircraft. Your responsibilities will include
tactical transport of Soldiers, search and rescue, medical
evacuation, disaster relief and external carriage.
SIgNALS CORpS OFFICER
As a Signals Corps Officer, you’ll play an important role in
the command and control of the battlespace through the
delivery of a complete information service during times of
peace, conflict and crisis. With your unique understanding
of communications and information systems, you’ll be
equally at home transferring large volumes of high-speed
data, or working on computer switched digital networks
providing high-capacity secure communications.
COMPUTER SCIENCE OFFICER
As a Signals Corps Officer you may be employed as a
Computer Science Officer. You’ll be responsible for the
installation and operation of local area networks using
state-of-the-art computer equipment. Working within
the Royal Australian Signals (RASigs) Corps, you’ll
assist in providing commanders with the means of
controlling the battlefield using road and air despatch
services, radio, microwave and satellite links.
TRANSpORT CORpS OFFICER
With the increasing sophistication of transport logistics,
the Royal Australian Corps of Transport (RACT) has a
growing need for Officers to manage its computing, systems
management, fleet control and civilian transport practices.
As a Transport Corps Officer, you’ll be involved in all aspects
of the Army’s transport operations. This includes land, sea
and air transport, cargo terminals, and special packing
and despatch of supplies for air drops, as well as the
movement of personnel and equipment both nationally
and internationally.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 38 10/8/07 5:10:45 PM
�0 ADFA AIR FORCE CAREERSAdministrative Officer
Aerospace Engineer
– Aeronautical Engineer Officer
– Armament Engineer Officer
– Electronics Engineer Officer
Air Defence Officer (Fighter Controller)
Air Traffic Controller
Airfield Engineer Officer
Intelligence Officer
Logistics Officer
Navigator
Pilot
ADMINISTRATIvE OFFICER
Leading and motivating a team is just one aspect of a
career as an Air Force Administrative Officer. Administrative
Officers are responsible for the management and execution
of all military matters not included in tactics and strategy,
primarily in the field of personnel management and the
internal human resource management of units. Sound
administration is integral to the effectiveness of any war
fighting capability. A key vehicle for Air Force to deliver
effective administration is the Administrative Officer.
Administrative Officers are employed in a wide variety
of roles throughout the Air Force and within the wider
Australian Defence Force organisation.
AEROSpACE ENgINEER
There are three Aerospace Engineer specialisations:
Aeronautical, Armament and Electronic/Electrical.
Aerospace Engineers ensure the airworthiness, operational
readiness, availability, maintainability, reliability and
integrity of RAAF technical equipment.
AERONAUTICAL ENGINEER OFFICER
Like a job where you’ll be at the cutting edge of
aeronautics? Aeronautical Engineer Officers in the
Air Force perform a wide range of engineering,
maintenance and quality assurance tasks, in
association with resource management. These tasks
are essential to provide the Air Force with airworthy,
mission capable aircraft and ground support equipment,
and are particularly challenging because of the rapid
technological changes in modern aviation. Aeronautical
Engineer Officers are responsible for aircraft structures,
propulsion and associated mechanical systems and
ground support equipment.
ARMAMENT ENGINEER OFFICER
Like to broaden your engineering background to work
with weapons systems and their associated hardware?
This position is for you. Armament Engineer Officers are
responsible for weapons; weapons systems associated
test equipment on a range of Air Force aircraft from
Fighters to Strike Bombers, as well as bomb disposal.
ELECTRONICS ENGINEER OFFICER
As an Electronics Engineer you may find yourself
responsible for airborne power generation and
distribution, electronic/electrical control systems,
instrument and navigation systems, automatic
test equipment, communications, and radar and
sonar equipment, heavy ground radar, ground
telecommunication equipment and computer networks.
AIR DEFENCE OFFICER (FIgHTER CONTROLLER)
As a Fighter Controller your responsibility is the surveillance
and securing of Australia’s skies. You will use sophisticated
electronic equipment in a Top Secret environment, to
detect, identify and co-ordinate interceptions by fighter
aircraft of enemy or unknown aircraft. You will also operate
radar systems, high technology computers, advanced
display equipment and extensive communications systems
(including satellite data links) in the command and control of
Air Defence Operations. Working only with fighter aircraft,
you will also have an exciting future ahead of you with the
chance to become a crewmember on board Australia’s
recently ordered AEW&C aircraft.
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
If you’d like to be responsible for some of the most
sophisticated aircraft in the sky, a career as an Air Traffic
Controller might just be what you’re looking for. Air Force
and indeed Navy and Army Air Traffic Control (ATC) is a
service established to provide safe and expeditious control
of military and civil aircraft both in the air and on the
movement areas of both military and some civil (or joint
user) aerodromes in Australia and overseas. You may also
find yourself working not just at Air Force establishments,
but Army and Navy as well.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 40 10/8/07 5:10:54 PM
��AIRFIELD ENgINEER OFFICER
As an Airfield Engineering Officer you will be involved in
numerous and varied roles and responsibilities. Using
specialist military and technical expertise you are involved
in management, delivery, assessment, maintenance,
repair, regeneration and operation of the Air Force
infrastructure, working with a wide and varied workforce
including tradesmen from a variety of trades. It is your role
to conduct and sustain the effective combat and related
air operations of the Air Force. You will be used as either a
Base or Staff Engineering Officer performing contingency
and strategic estate planning.
INTELLIgENCE OFFICER
As an Air Force Intelligence Officer you will be responsible
for one or more of the following Top Secret duties:
preparing and presenting intelligence briefs, conducting
debriefs, providing advice to squadron members and
commanders analysing and preparing assessments or air-
related activities intelligence analysis tasks maintenance
and monitoring of high standards of security information
analysing information associated with electronic warfare
and weapons systems interpreting the significance of
intelligence data and reports.
LOgISTICS OFFICER
As a Logistics Officer your diverse duties involve the
welfare and management of airmen and women and
civilian staff. You will utilise specialist skills in areas such
as computing, catering, warehousing, stock control,
equipment accounting, financial and project management,
computing, explosives/dangerous goods handling,
procurement, provisioning and project and resource
management. Initially you will be employed in a specialist
role, having received training providing you with the
necessary skills.
NAvIgATOR
Let your career soar with this exciting position as a
master of the most sophisticated advanced airborne
electronic systems in Australia. It is your responsibility
as the Navigator (Airborne Tactician) to plan, co-ordinate,
execute and direct all kinds of airborne missions. You
may be trained to fly P-3C Orion aircraft in a Maritime role
conducting Anti-Submarine warfare. Alternatively you may
be trained in tactical warfare flying C-130 Hercules or
F-111’s. But no matter what you’re trained in, you’ll find
the job demanding, but extremely exciting and rewarding.
pILOT
Forget charter and commercial work, this pilot role could
see you command the fastest and most exciting aircraft
in the Australian skies. As a Pilot you will be part of an
efficient and disciplined pilot team. Your training and
work environment fully utilises your personal qualities of
leadership, integrity and reliability and as a Pilot you will
be in ultimate control of Air Force aircraft. Only in the
Air Force can you tear across the sky doing Mach 2 in an
F/A-18 fighter jet or pilot an international rescue mission in
a C-130 Hercules, or patrol for submarine’s off Australia’s
coastline in a P-3C Orion. As a pilot in the Air Force, the
sky’s the limit for your career, and once qualified, you’ll
be responsible for some of the most advanced aircraft
anywhere in the world.
More information on all of these careers can be found
www.defencejobs.gov.au.
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��ELIgIBILITY FOR ADFATo be eligible to apply for ADFA, you should be at least 17
years of age on date of entry to ADFA. You will need to be
currently studying, or have completed, Year 12 (including
English and Mathematics) with an entrance rank that
will qualify you for entry to UNSW. After applying, you’ll
go through a selection process that will determine your
physical and mental fitness and your suitability to become
an Officer in the ADF. All applications to ADFA must be
submitted to a Defence Force Careers Recruiting Centre.
An offer by the ADF to study at ADFA is conditional on
meeting the educational admission requirements for
UNSW @ ADFA.
EDUCATIONAL qUALIFICATIONS FOR ADMISSION TO ADFAThe education requirements for admission to an
undergraduate program at UNSW @ ADFA require
a candidate to:
(1) meet the admission requirements of UNSW; and
(2) have reached a standard of performance in Year 12
acceptable to the UNSW Academic Board.
WHAT ENTRANCE SCORES ARE REqUIRED FOR UNSW @ ADFA?Entrance scores are not generally released until the latter
part of the year. For up-to-date information on entrance
scores, visit www.unsw.adfa.edu.au
The following scores are from 2007 and should only be
used as a guide to the entry level required for UNSW
courses at ADFA:
NSW, VIC, TAS SA, ACT, WA, NT
QLD
Courses IT/UAI OP
BSc or BA 70.00 1-14
BBus 75.00 1-12
BE (Aeronautical, Civil, Electrical and Mechanical)
85.00 1-8
BTech (Aeronautical) 85.00 1-8
BTech (Aviation) 80.75 1-10
ACCESS pROgRAMThe ACCESS Scheme is part of UNSWs commitment
to equal opportunity and affirmative action in education
and provides you with an alternative method of entry to
higher education if you have experienced a long-term
educational disadvantage.
To be eligible for consideration you must:
be an Australian citizen or permanent resident of
Australia or a New Zealand citizen and
have experienced long-term educational disadvantage
so that your Year 11 and Year 12 studies (or equivalent)
have been seriously affected by circumstances beyond
your control.
Further information about the ACCESS Scheme including
eligibility can be found at:
www.unsw.edu.au/futureStudents/undergrad/sad/
accessscheme.html
Information on how to apply can be found at
www.uac.edu.au/pubs/pdf/easbook.pdf
.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 43 10/8/07 5:11:02 PM
�� FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT ASSUMED kNOWLEDgEAssumed Knowledge is the level of subject knowledge that
a lecturer or a tutor of a first year UNSW @ ADFA course
could reasonably expect all students enrolled in that course
to know at the outset.
If you do not have the level of assumed knowledge, you
are NOT prevented from applying for admission or enrolling
when the program begins, but you may be placed at a
considerable disadvantage. If you have not achieved
the recommended level of assumed knowledge, you are
strongly advised that it is in you best interest to undertake
a bridging program or other preparation course.
ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE STATE BY STATE
The following table lists the specific Year 12 subjects that
satisfy the Assumed Knowledge requirements for UNSW
@ ADFA. Requirements are expressed as minimum where
there is more than one level.
For example, to satisfy the Physics requirement, an ACT
student would have to complete a Major in Physics, while
a Victorian student would have to complete VCE Physics.
To satisfy the Mathematics requirement, a NSW student
would have to complete at least Mathematics with a mark
between 90 and 100, while a Queensland student would
have to complete at least Mathematics B with a score of
HA or better.
Completing one of these subjects is not the only way to
satisfy the Assumed Knowledge requirement. For more
information, please contact Student Administrative Services.
The most up-to-date information on Assumed Knowledge
for UNSW @ ADFA can be found at
www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/student
This table should be read in conjunction with the specific
assumed knowledge for each degree as outlined in the
previous pages of this guide. Where under the specific
degree it lists a subject as assumed knowledge, this table
will enable you to understand which Year 12 subject this
equates to in your state or territory.
SERvICE REqUIREMENTS
You should be aware that in addition to the Assumed
Knowledge requirements, there may be additional Service
requirements. Contact Defence Recruiting on 13 19 01
for more information.
Assumed Knowledge Requirements Expressed by Degree:
Bachelor of Engineering (Aeronautical, Civil, Electrical & Mechanical)
Bachelor of Technology (Aeronautical)
Bachelor of Technology (Aviation)
Bachelor of Science*
Bachelor of Arts*
Bachelor of Business
English Mathematics Physics
English Mathematics Physics
English Mathematics Physics OR Chemistry
English English English
Chemistry (desirable not essential)
Chemistry (desirable not essential)
*Prerequisites for specific subject areas undertaken in the BA or BSc:
Mathematics Physics Chemistry Oceanography
Mathematics Physics Mathematics
Mathematics Mathematics
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��School subjects that may be required:
The following table lists the specific Year 12 subjects
that satisfy the Assumed Knowledge requirements.
This table should be read in conjunction with the specific
assumed knowledge for each degree as outlined in the
previous pages of this guide. Where under the specific
degree it lists a subject as assumed knowledge, this
table will enable you to understand which Year 12 subject
this equates to in your state or territory. Requirements
are expressed as minimum where there is more than
one level. For example, to satisfy the Mathematics
requirement, a NSW student would have to complete
at least Mathematics with a mark between 90 and 100,
while a Queensland student would have to complete at
least Mathematics B with a score of HA or better. In states
where Year 12 English may be replaced by a Humanities
subject for the purpose of meeting the Year 12 certificate
requirements, the Assumed Knowledge is Year 11 English
plus a Year 12 Humanities subject.
ACT • Major in English• Major in Mathematical Methods• Major in Physics• Major in Chemistry
NSW • English (Standard)• Mathematics (90-100)• 2 unit Physics or 2 Senior Science
(Multistrand, including Physics)• 2 unit Chemistry or 2 Senior Science
(Multistrand, including Chemistry)
QLD • English• Mathematics B (HA)• Physics• Chemistry
SA/NT • English (or Year 11 plus Year 12 Language-rich subject)
• Mathematical Studies• Physics• Chemistry
TAS • One of the TCE English Group Choices• Mathematic Methods 5C• Physics 5C• Chemistry 5C
VIC • One of the VCE English Group Choices• Mathematical Methods 3 & 4• VCE Physics• VCE Chemistry
WA • English Literature or English• Mathematics: Calculus• Physics• Chemistry
The most up-to-date information on Assumed Knowledge
can be found at www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/student
BONUS pOINT SCHEME
UNSW has introduced a national bonus point scheme
for Year 12 students commencing in 2008. This is in
recognition of the strong correlation between Year 12
subject performance and preparation for, and success in,
first year university studies. If you have undertaken, and
done well in, relevant Year 12 subjects, you are generally
well prepared for the demands of university study.
The bonus point scheme will be available to all programs
offered by UNSW @ ADFA except for all Chief of
Defence Force Special Programs. For information about
the bonus point scheme, selection of Year 12 subjects
and the required performance level visit
www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/student
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 45 10/8/07 5:11:03 PM
�� THE ADFA AppLICATION pROCESS1. Initial Enquiry
If you make an initial enquiry to 13 19 01 or submit an
online enquiry form via the website www.defencejobs.
gov.au/adfa, you will be sent information relating to ADFA
and the ADF. You can also book directly into a Job Options
Evaluation Session at your local Defence Force Recruiting
Centre. You will be sent application forms, which you will
need to complete and bring with you to the session. At the
session you can expect to attend an information seminar
and undergo the following assessments.
2. Aptitude Testing
To make sure that you can handle the intellectual and
training demands of ADFA, you will undertake aptitude
testing. A Defence Careers Adviser will explain what is
involved and what to expect.
3. Medical Fitness Assessment
You will then be checked out by Defence Doctor to ensure
you meet the fitness and health standard required for
selection and entry into the ADF.
4. The interviews
When you pass the aptitude test and medical assessment,
a Psychologist and a Recruiting Officer will interview you
about your education, employment history, family, lifestyle,
hobbies, sports interests, your reasons for wanting to join
and what you aspire to. All these tests will take just one
day and really are not as daunting as they sound.
5. The Pre-entry Fitness Assessment
All applicants must successfully pass a Pre-entry Fitness
Assessment (PFA) before entry. This may be conducted on
the day that you complete your medical and aptitude tests
or on another day. Your Defence Recruiting Officer will
advise you in advance so that you can bring along running
shoes, T-shirt, shorts, a towel and toiletries.
6. Officer Selection Board
Once you pass the first three stages, your Defence
Recruiting Officer will recommend that you be invited
to appear before an Officer Selection Board (OSB). This
includes a four-day trip to Canberra where the Selection
Boards are conducted and a tour of ADFA to familiarise you
with its facilities. The OSB is made up of several Defence
Force representatives. The selection criteria takes into
account things like your presentation, maturity, leadership
potential, communication skills, educational potential,
vocational compatibility and much more.
Briefly the OSB program looks something like this:
Navy /Air Force Army
Day 1 Arrival Arrival
Day 2Tour Day (War Memorial, ADFA)
OSB
Day 3 Personal Development Personal Development
Day 4 OSBTour Day (War Memorial, ADFA)
Day 5 Depart Depart
Acceptance into ADFA is then dependent on your final
Year 12 results and successful admission into UNSW.
In some instances you will be placed in competition with
other applicants and will be notified of your success at
the OSB at a later date. If you apply to be a Pilot you
must attend an OSB at Tamworth in NSW following
completion of your flight Screening Program (FSP), which
is designed to test your aptitude for flying. Further details
on the application process for Pilots entering via ADFA are
available from any Defence Force Recruiting Centre.
7. University Application
Once you make it through the OSB selection process,
you will need to submit an application to the Universities
Admissions Centre (UAC) in NSW, listing your
UNSW @ ADFA degree as your number one university
preference. Confirmation of meeting the admission
requirements to study at UNSW @ ADFA is advised
separately by a preliminary round offer from UAC in early
January each year.
If you are successful in your UAC application and meet
the admission requirements for ADFA, Defence Force
Recruiting will contact you as to when and where you will
be appointed into the ADF. You need to advise Defence
Force Recruiting of your intent to accept an offer. Once you
have indicated that you wish to continue, Defence Force
Recruiting will stay in contact with you until appointment,
which is the day you join.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 46 10/8/07 5:11:03 PM
�7CAN I vISIT ADFA TO SEE WHAT IT’S REALLY LIkE?There are a number of activities and events run throughout
the year which aim to provide you with a first-hand
experience of ADFA and its facilities. ADFA usually
conducts public tours once a month, however additional
tours may be scheduled. The tours run for approximately
two hours and take in the main areas of the campus and
a number of small presentations. Large and small groups
are catered for. If you are interested you should contact the
Visits Liaison Officer on (02) 6268 8541.
ADFA OpEN DAY
ADFA usually conducts its annual Open Day in August each
year, in conjunction with the Canberra Tertiary Open Day.
Open Day is a chance to see inside ADFA and gain a
real insight into Australia’s finest military and academic
training ground. There are attractions for people of all
ages, including hands-on scientific displays, information
stands and military equipment displays. The student
accommodation, gymnasium, Cadets Mess and the
academic areas are open for inspection. The Midshipmen
and Officer Cadets who live and learn at ADFA are on hand
to talk about their daily life and academic staff are available
to answer queries about degree courses at ADFA.
More information on ADFA Open Day is available on
www.openday.adfa.edu.au
ADFA EDUCATION AWARDThe ADFA Education Award is presented annually to Year
12 students in recognition of outstanding achievement
gained during the recruitment process. The award
comprises a laptop computer and certificate for the
winning student along with a plaque in recognition of the
student’s school. It is presented on behalf of the Navy,
Army or Air Force to the 120 most suitable applicants who
have applied for entry to ADFA.
AWARD ELIgIBILITY
Only applicants applying for entry to ADFA are eligible to
apply for the ADFA Education Award. You must submit an
application prior to 31 December in the year you complete
Year 11. You may apply for awards to all three Services,
but if successful you will only receive one award from
the Service you perform best in. You will only receive
the award if you are enrolled in Year 12 at the time of the
award presentation and meet age limit requirements for
ADFA entry.
ASSESSMENT
The process comprises the ADFA entry aptitude test,
medical testing and a series of interviews. Receipt of
the ADFA Education Award does not guarantee entry to
ADFA. You will still be in national competition against other
candidates for entry and be required to undertake a single
Service Officer Selection Board (OSB).
OBLIgATION OF THE RECIpIENT
The ADFA Education Award is unbonded, which means
there is no obligation to accept an offer to attend ADFA nor
is there any obligation on the ADF to offer appointment to
an award winner.
pRESENTATION
A representative of the ADF will present awards to
recipients at a school assembly in the second school term.
AppLICATION
To apply for the ADFA Education Award, contact your
local Defence Force Recruiting Centre on 13 19 01
or visit www.defencejobs.gov.au/adfa
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 47 10/8/07 5:11:03 PM
��FREqUENTLY ASkED qUESTIONSThe following is a list of the most common questions
asked by people interested in applying to ADFA. Should
you find your question not answered here, please speak to
your local Defence Careers Adviser or visit
www.defencejobs.gov.au/adfa
Do I get weekends and public holidays off, and can I go home on weekends?
Leave is not normally granted during the first six weeks
at ADFA. Once the academic year commences, you may
take local leave in the Canberra area on approved days
if you are not required for duty, including sporting or
military training commitments. There is no local leave on
weekdays for first years during first session. However, the
big plus about studying at ADFA is if you wish to go home
to visit family and friends, ADFA will pay your return fare
twice every year.
Do I always have to do physical training?
To ensure an operational capability, the ADF requires its
personnel to maintain a high level of physical fitness.
The ADF achieves this by encouraging physical training
activities, generally conducted during working hours.
A fitness test is conducted a minimum of twice yearly
at ADFA and annually after graduation.
Do I have to live at ADFA?
Yes. Midshipmen and Officer Cadets live in accommodation
blocks on base while they are attending ADFA. Everyone
lives on base during the first six weeks, however if you are
married or in a recognised de facto relationship you may
be entitled to rental assistance or a married quarter in a
nearby suburb after the Chief of the Defence Force Parade.
Do I have to go to sea?
All Navy personnel are required to serve at sea as required
by their job classification.
If I get injured during training am I covered?
Yes, all personnel are covered under the Military
Compensation Scheme (MCS).
Will I have access to a telephone if I need to contact family and friends?
Yes, public telephones are available for you to use, at your
own cost. In fact, you are encouraged to maintain contact
with family and friends, particularly in the first six weeks.
What happens if I don’t like it, is there a cooling-off period?
For Officer Entry, personnel can resign at any stage by
giving three months notice provided you do not have a
Return Of Service Obligation (ROSO). While at ADFA, you
can resign at any time within the first two years without
completing a ROSO.
If I take a particular job can I change over to another job/Service at a later stage?
The opportunity to request a transfer between jobs and/or
Services does exist. However, this option is only available
subject to Service requirements.
How long do I have to commit myself to the ADF, once I have joined up?
Generally speaking, you join for six to nine years. However,
you must serve to the completion of your ROSO or initial
minimum period of service obligation. For more information
see the ‘What do you have to give back?’ section on page 13.
What should I wear when I am attending my interview with a Defence Careers Adviser?
There are no formal dress requirements, however, smart
casual attire is recommended.
What should I bring when attending my interview with a Defence Careers Adviser?
Any documentation/information required to be brought
with you will be detailed by the Defence Careers Adviser.
Generally you will need to bring all of your educational
results, a résumé, written references and birth certificate.
What if I do not have a birth certificate as I was born in another country, but I have a passport? Will this do?
A Defence Recruiting Officer can rely on other documents
that support your identification such as a passport or
certificate of Australian citizenship.
Do I have to obtain written references, or just listed references on my application?
Written references need to be submitted with the
application form, and you will need to bring copies along
when you undergo aptitude testing.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 49 10/8/07 5:11:11 PM
�0 What happens after I hand in the application forms?
An application will be assessed against the selection
criteria (age, education, etc.) and subject to you being
found suitable, you will be called in for a ‘test day’.
Can I be employed in off-duty hours?
Yes, with approval of your specific Service. However, while
at ADFA, you will be on a good salary and your days will be
so full that you will have little time for extra commitments.
What’s the food like?
The meals provided in the Cadets’ Mess are of a high
standard. Generally, you are offered three cooked meals a
day in the Mess, with several dishes being offered for each
meal. Vegetarian and low fat options are also provided.
Do I have to be fit to get in?
Yes. Physical training plays a very big role in your initial
training, so it pays to be as fit as you possibly can.
Are there any opportunities to further my study?
Yes. The ADF encourages its members to further their
education by providing financial and leave support and offering
postgraduate opportunities, subject to Service requirements.
What happens if I am posted away from home and my mother gets sick?
If your next of kin (NOK) becomes seriously ill, the ADF
may provide you with emergency leave and free travel
back to your home location.
Will colour blindness affect my chances of joining the Forces?
Colour blindness will restrict the employment categories that
are available to you. A Defence Careers Adviser will be able
to tell you about those jobs for which you will be eligible.
If I need to put my application form in soon, but don’t have all the required paperwork, what should I do?
Contact a Defence Careers Adviser for advice. Some
documentation is needed to establish your eligibility to be
brought in for testing; others can be provided on ‘test day.’
What is the minimum height for joining the ADF?
Generally the minimum height for joining the ADF is 152cm
without shoes. Some jobs have more specific height
requirements, for example: Pilots. More details can be
obtained by contacting a Defence Careers Adviser.
How do I stand if I have committed an offence years ago?
All applicants must undergo a police check. The ADF does
take into consideration your criminal history when assessing
your suitability. This is done on a case-by-case basis.
Do I have to be an Australian citizen?
You must be an Australian citizen or have permanent
residency status and be eligible for citizenship.
What medical restrictions govern my eligibility to join?
You will be given a medical questionnaire to take home and
complete. Those questions with an asterisk require further
clarification when you go in for testing.
Do I get a choice where I am posted after graduation? (Location of employment)
You are given the opportunity to express a preference for
the facilities, bases, ships or units to which you would like
to be posted. While the ADF will try to fulfil your posting
preferences you may be posted to any locality if there is a
Service requirement.
Do I get paid?
Upon appointment, you will receive $ 20,570 per annum
with a guaranteed pay rise every year while at ADFA.
You will not have to pay tuition fees and the cost of most
of your textbooks is covered.
What can I do in Canberra?
As the nation’s capital, Canberra offers all the facilities you
would expect in a capital city. There’s an almost unlimited
number of sporting pursuits that you can take part in, along
with an enormous range of museums, galleries, cinemas,
restaurants and bars. What’s more, it’s only a two-hour
drive to the ski fields or the coast.
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 50 10/8/07 5:11:11 PM
��WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION?The information contained within this pack by no means
covers everything there is to know about studying at
ADFA. While we have attempted to cover a broad range
of information relevant to studying at ADFA, you may still
have a question or two you would like answered.
If you wish to speak with a Defence Careers Adviser,
simply call 13 19 01, contact your local Defence Force
Recruiting Centre, or visit www.defencejobs.gov.au/adfa
For more information on academic studies visit
www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/student or contact
UNSW @ ADFA Student Administrative Services on
(02) 6268 6000 or by email on [email protected]
MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 51 10/8/07 5:11:11 PM
The University of New South Wales at Australian Defence Force Academy is
registered in the ACT as a Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses
for Overseas Students (CRICOS) provider under the Education Services for
Overseas Students Act 2000. The provider number is: 00100G.
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