Why would you want to join the Australian Defence Force Cadets?

Well, there are lots of reasons! For a start, you get to experience things you don’t do in everyday life. Apart from getting involved in all kinds of action and adventures, you’ll also make heaps of new friends. Joining the Cadets is your chance to experience a really awesome time by getting into some adventurous activities conducted in a military setting.

As a cadet, you’ll learn to be confident, self sufficient and willing to ‘have a go’. It’s your opportunity to discover new challenges and have some unbelievable fun. You’ll also learn to lead others and work as a member of a team. You’ll be able to do things for yourself and help your friends learn too. Cadet life is physical but not risky – and you won’t have to be a superwoman or superman. Qualified and experienced cadet officers will instruct you. Safety is always a top priority.

Youth who are 13 years of age anytime in the year are eligible to enrol. Once enrolled, they may remain as a cadet until the end of the year in which they attain 18 years of age, or in special circumstances, until attaining 20 years of age. A cadet is not a member of the Australian Defence Force.

Australian Defence Force Cadets and cadet staff are drawn from a diverse range of unique backgrounds and experiences.  All are committed to providing and enjoying a positive and safe youth development experience, respecting the value and dignity of all people, and recognising the particular rights and needs of young people.

Once certain age, citizenship, medical management and parental support requirements are met; all young people will have the opportunity join one of the three cadet organisations: Australian Navy Cadets, Australian Army Cadets or Australian Air Force Cadets.