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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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what it takes for you to study at adfa in 2008

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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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what is an officer?

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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 adfa?

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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 lifestyle

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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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military studies

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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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academic studies

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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.

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 15 10/8/07 5:10:15 PM

�� BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BSC)UAC CODE

450002



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, AND



as part of your Bachelor of Science, AND


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



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, AND



as part of your Bachelor of Business, AND


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



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



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, AND


• Physics, AND


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.


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



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, AND


• Physics, AND


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.


As a graduate from UNSW @ ADFA with an engineering

degree, you are eligible for membership of Australia’s



MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 26 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM

27BACHELOR OF ENgINEERINg (BE) IN MECHANICAL ENgINEERINgUAC CODE

450006



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, AND


• Physics, AND


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.


As a graduate from UNSW @ ADFA with an engineering

degree, you are eligible for membership to Australia’s



MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 27 10/8/07 5:10:16 PM

2� BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOgY (AERONAUTICAL ENgINEERINg) (BTECH (AERO))UAC CODE

450007



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, AND


• Physics, AND


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



DURATION OF DEgREE


ASSUMED kNOWLEDgE

• English, 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

officer careers

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 31 10/8/07 5:10:26 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 careers

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 33 10/8/07 5:10:35 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

adfa army careers

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 36 10/8/07 5:10:44 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

adfa air force careers

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 39 10/8/07 5:10:54 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.

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 41 10/8/07 5:10:54 PM

how to apply

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 42 10/8/07 5:11:02 PM

��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

.

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�� 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

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 44 10/8/07 5:11:02 PM

��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

questions and information

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 48 10/8/07 5:11:11 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

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 52 10/8/07 5:11:19 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.

MDFT2520_TA10_60pp.indd 53 10/8/07 5:11:23 PM

Documents

MDFT2520 TA10 60pp.indd 4 10/8/07 5:09:18 PM