Why serve in the Army Reserves?

- tax-free pay and choose when you want to work. - Serve close to home from any one of our military units located across Australia. - Learn new skills and develop great friendships in a dynamic team environment. - Help communities impacted by natural disasters in Australia and overseas. - Get opportunities to travel and experience unique workplaces. - Be part of something challenging and meaningful that makes a real impact.

How old do I need to be to join as Army Reserve?

To apply for an ADF role you must be at least 16 years and 6 months of age when applying and 17 on the day you join. At this age, you are considered a 'minor' so special conditions apply. Your application must be voluntary, approved in writing by both your parents or your legal guardian(s), and accompanied by an original or certified copy of your full birth certificate.

What is the initial training breakdown?

Your part-time Army career will start at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. This training will equip you with new skills, experience and knowledge beyond your day job. In approximately 3 weeks, you'll be challenged to step outside your comfort zone. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training relevant to your chosen role, which can be completed in one or more blocks as required.

How much will I get paid?

Your pay as a Reservist will depend on your role, qualifications and rank. You'll be paid a tax-free daily rate for each day you work and train and engage in exercises. You'll also receive food, accommodation and medical care while on deployments and training. To receive a full day's pay, you must work at least six hours. Otherwise, you will receive a half day's pay for three hours work. Your regular weekly parade night is considered as a half day. Please note that Reservists employed in continuous full-time service will receive the standard (taxable) annual salary for their role.

I'm getting Centrelink payments - will I still receive them if I join?

Yes, the pay you receive from the Army Reserve will not affect any Centrelink payments you currently receive (unless you are engaged in a role that involves continuous full-time employment).

How many hours a day do I work as an Army Reservist?

Reserve members may be employed from a minimum of 3 hours up to 24 hours in a day, depending on the service agreement (approved periods of duty) or the operating environment demands. Reserve members generally work a partial day of 3 hours, or a normal full working day of 6 to 7.5 hours.

I'm self-employed, can I apply for the employer benefits?

Yes, it's possible to claim the employer benefits associated with your part-time service, even if you are your own employer. Having your employer's support of your Reserve service is invaluable when managing your service obligations, such as requesting leave to attend training or an exercise. This is especially important if you are nominated for a period of continuous Service training or a deployment. Your employer will be more likely to support you if they recognise the extra skills and qualities, you are gaining and how these skills can assist their business or organisation. Reserves website: https://www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au/

How long is my commitment?

There is no minimum period of service in the Army Reserve as service is voluntary. You can leave and return whenever you want to. Once trained you'll be expected to complete a minimum of 20 days of service each year.

What is my commitment per year?

Once trained, you'll be expected to complete a minimum of 20 days of service each year. You'll also attend Parade Nights at your home unit (usually on a Tuesday night) with the opportunity to attend training courses, exercises and operational deployments. You'll have the opportunity to attend training courses, exercises and operational deployments, which will occur on weekends, and in 1 to 2-week blocks. Completing training counts towards your days served. For example, if you attend a 10-day course, you only need to serve 10 additional days to meet the minimum requirements.

Deployments are voluntary so it's entirely up to you. The types of deployment can vary, which is why they're so exciting. It might involve being stationed at a temporary facility on combat, disaster relief or peacekeeping and aid operations. deployment is optional, there are situations where a Call Out for Reserve Support is mandatory, such as the 2019/20 Bushfire response. Exemptions may be granted due to extenuating circumstances and/or for members who are already in direct support in an Emergency Role, such as Paramedics.

Do I need to hold a driver's licence?

You don’t need a driver’s licence for this role but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

I did my schooling overseas. Does it need to be assessed to determine Australian equivalency prior to submitting an application? How do I arrange this?

All overseas qualifications submitted must be accompanied by an assessment of Australian equivalencies. The Education Department of each state and territory in Australia individually assess overseas academic qualifications. Use the following link to access their contact details: https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/

I have a trade qualification from overseas. Who do I contact to assess my qualifications for Australian equivalency?

If you have a trade qualification and foreign military service, you could be eligible for an overseas lateral transfer. If you have a trade qualification and don't have foreign military service, you should speak to an ADF Careers recruiter to find out more information about your specific situation.

How fit do I have to be?

Keeping fit is a big part of joining the ADF. You’ll need to pass a physical fitness test before you join, but don’t worry, we'll give you tips to help you prepare. If you need a fitness partner, download the ADF Active mobile app. By adding in your details, you’ll learn proper techniques, get your baseline fitness analysed and get a plan designed to help you achieve your PFA.

General Entry Combat roles and Officer Entry roles Female • Sit-ups (feet held) 45 • Push-ups 8 • Shuttle Run Score (7.5) Male • Sit-ups (feet held) 45 • Push-ups 15 • Shuttle Run Score (7.5) General Entry Combat Support roles Female • Sit-ups (feet held) 20 • Push-ups 4 • Shuttle Run Score (6.1) Male • Sit-ups (feet held) 20 • Push-ups 8 • Shuttle Run Score (6.1)

What if I have a visual impairment, wear glasses, or I'm colour-blind?

Each role has a minimum entry standard for Colour Perception (CP) and Minimum Visual Requirement (MVR) which will determine which roles you can apply for. Your vision will be assessed at your medical examination, so if you use vision aids (glasses and contact lenses) be sure to wear them on the day.

Can I join the ADF if I have asthma?

Whether you can join will depend on your asthma history, medication, disease control and the specific requirements of the role you are applying for.

Can I join the ADF with a hearing impairment?

Each role has hearing standard requirements, so the outcome depends on the individual and their role preference. The cause of hearing loss, the progression of the condition, and the functional impact are all considered. Please note, asymmetrical hearing loss can have an underlying medical cause. If this is your case you may require a further ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) review to exclude other conditions.

Can I join the ADF with diabetes?

The type of diabetes and its management, along with the specific requirements of the role you are applying for will determine whether you can join.

What if I have physical or mental health issues?

Your mental and physical health are important to the ADF and will be supported by qualified health professionals in a safe and secure environment so your privacy is respected. The ADF provides free healthcare to full-time members (and Reserves in some circumstances), including medical and dental treatment, mental health services, ambulance transport and hospitalisation. Additionally, the ADF has physical training instructors to deliver group fitness classes as well as personalised training programs and fitness training advice.

What if I have a criminal record?

All applicants must undergo a police check. On application, you will be asked to detail any offence or criminal history. Your suitability for service will be assessed based on the information provided. Your application or service may be terminated if you fail to disclose offences.

What Security Clearances are required?

To obtain the minimum-security clearance, you must have lived in Australia or have a checkable background for the past 10 years.

Do I need to be an Australian citizen or resident?

You do need to be an Australian citizen, or an eligible Australian permanent resident. Non-Australian citizens may be eligible to join the ADF. To be eligible, you must meet all of the following criteria: • be a New Zealand citizen, a citizen of the United Kingdom, United States of America or Canada • be a permanent resident living in Australia or holding a 444 sub-class visa • have lived in Australia for at least one year immediately prior to applying to join the ADF and • have not served in a foreign military in the two years prior to applying to join the ADF Overseas applicants with relevant military experience may be eligible to start a new career in the ADF and a new life in Australia through a lateral transfer.

Can I wear religious attire / articles with my uniform?

Yes, where it does not affect your safety, non-standard ADF uniform items (such as a hijab) are allowed. Items like these allow members of different faiths the opportunity to meet their religious practices. This enables all Australians, regardless of their cultural or religious backgrounds, to make a valued contribution to Australia's prosperity and security through service.

How can I style my hair?

While each service has specific policies on appropriate hairstyles, hair should be neatly groomed. Men are required to have their hair cut short, back and sides, with no unusual length or bulk on the top of the head, although this rule may not apply to all services. Women can have long hair, and depending on their service or operating environment, it must be worn up in a braid, plait, bun or ponytail. If cut short, the length of hair must not touch the bottom of a buttoned shirt collar. Radical hairstyles are not accepted. Examples of this include a mohawk, faux mohawk, undercut, fade (medium, high, bald), quiff, pompadour, comb-over, slicked-back, spikey, stepped, layered foils, streaked, bleached, unnatural or extreme colours, combinations of colours or styles

Can I have tattoos and/or body piercings?

Tattoos are acceptable as long as they're not visible in a passport photo: not on your face or front of neck. Minimal tattoos for cosmetic purposes are accepted, as are earrings for women (one per ear lobe) in accordance with ADF dress regulations. Any tattoo or brand considered offensive, intimidating or which does not align with the values of the ADF will not be accepted. If you have tattoos for cultural or religious reasons, check with your ADF Careers Advisor as exceptions can be made.

Can I wear jewellery?

Yes, although each service has its own dress code. You're generally allowed to wear minimal jewellery when safety is not an issue. Watches of subtle colour and practical design can be worn when in uniform except under certain safety, operational or ceremonial circumstances. Necklaces or chains are allowed when in uniform if they are not visible. Women are allowed to have one earring per ear (in the ear lobe only), and in accordance with ADF dress regulations. Members may also wear a wedding ring and/or signet ring.

What is Aptitude testing?

Aptitude testing is designed to find the ideal career for you. It's a straightforward, general ability test made up of multiple-choice questions where you'll be asked to select the correct answer. Aptitude testing will be conducted as part of the Job Opportunities Assessment.

Can I join as a single parent?

Yes, but it's important to have a support network in place to assist you with any special arrangements required.

What qualification and experience do I need?

Join without qualifications - There are many excellent career options in the ADF that don’t require experience or qualifications. You’ll receive all the training you need and be paid while you train.

Will I need a driver's licence?

You don’t need a driver’s licence for most roles but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Distribution Operator - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

What is the initial training breakdown for a Distribution Operator?

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Course: Distribution Operator Part Time Grade 1 Duration: 16 days Location: Online training - remote learning Course: Distribution Operator Part Time Grade 2 Duration: 16 days Location: Army School of Ordnance, South Bandiana, Albury Wodonga Military Area

Command Support Clerk - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

What is the initial training breakdown for a Command Support Clerk?

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3 week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Course: Human Resources Administrator Course Modules 1-3 Duration: 6 weeks (2 weeks per module) Location: Army Logistics Training Centre, Bandiana Each module is 2 weeks, with training offered throughout the year meaning you can enrol around your other commitments at a time that suits you.

What qualification and experience do I need?

Join without qualifications - There are many excellent career options in the ADF that don’t require experience or qualifications. You’ll receive all the training you need and be paid while you train. On-the-Job Training is managed by local unit through Competency Task Journal over a 36-month period.

Will I need a Drivers Licence?

You don’t need a driver’s licence for most roles but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Cook - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

What is the initial training breakdown for a cook?

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Army Reserve Chef Training Course 1: Module 1 Catering Field Training Detachment Duration: 16 days Location: Latchford Barrack, Bonegilla This module teaches you the basic cookery skills, Food Safety – HACCP, Knife Skills, and basic hygiene. All your training will be delivered using field equipment to prepare you for employment as a part-time Cook Assistant. Course 2: Module 2 Army Initial Field Catering Course Duration: 16 days Location: Latchford Barrack, Bonegilla This module teaches you the principles of Army Field Catering Operations. This includes the principles in the construction of obstacles and basic field defences.

What qualification and experience do I need?

Join without qualifications - There are many excellent career options in the ADF that don’t require experience or qualifications. You’ll receive all the training you need and be paid while you train.

Will I need a drivers licence?

You’ll need an Australian state or territory full, provisional or probationary C Class licence. If your licence is suspended or cancelled, you won’t be eligible until that suspension or cancellation has been lifted or has expired.

Driver Specialist - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

What is the initial training breakdown for a Driver Specialist?

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Course: Army Initial Driver Training Course Duration: 12 days Location: Army Reserve unit near you You’ll learn how to: - Operate, supervise and manage Army transport and logistics vehicles - Uilise a variety of plant vehicles to support the conduct of tasks - Conduct training in heavy vehicle driving in both an operational and domestic environment - Demonstrate effective cargo stowage - Drive in complex environments by day and night in both operational and humanitarian support functions.

What qualification and experience do I need?

You’ll need to have completed a suitable trade qualification and have relevant experience. Electronic Systems Technician: Certificate III in Engineering – Electronics. Electrical Technician: Certificate III in Engineering – Electrical, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. Vehicle Mechanic: Certificate III in one of the following: Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Mobile Plant Technology Fitter Armament: Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical.

Will I need a Drivers Licence RAEME roles?

You don’t need a driver’s licence for most roles but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Electronic Systems Technician - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

What is the training breakdown for an Electronic Systems Technician?

You’ll need to have completed a Certificate III in Engineering – Electronics. Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Course 1: Army Reserve RAEME Induction Course Duration: 13 days Location: At your Reserve unit You’ll learn about the Army’s structure, processes, values and more. Course 2: Tactical Communications Network Systems Maintenance Course Duration: 2 weeks Location: Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME), Army Logistic Training Centre (ALTC), Vic This course will train you in the maintenance of Tactical Communications Network (TCN) Systems and ancillary equipment to a Light Grade Repair (LGR) level.

Electrical Technician - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

What is the initial training breakdown for an Electrical Technician?

You'll need to be qualified having completed a Certificate III in Engineering – Electrical, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Course 1: Army Reserve RAEME Induction Course Duration: 13 days Location: At your Reserve unit You’ll learn about the Army’s structure, processes, values and more. Course 2: Low to Medium Capacity Power Generation and Distribution Maintenance Course Duration: 2 weeks Location: Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME), Army Logistic Training Centre (ALTC), Victoria. This course gives you the skills and knowledge to perform maintenance on DC, single and 3-phase medium capacity generators.

Recovery Mechanic - What is the wage?

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax. You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress. Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

What is the initial training breakdown for a Recovery Mechanic?

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: Course 1: Recovery Technician Course – Module 1 Duration: 16 days Location: Army Logistics Training Centre, Bandiana, Vic Course2: Recovery Technician Course – Module 2 Duration: 16 days Location: Army Logistics Training Centre, Bandiana, Vic These modules are conducted in conjunction with approximately 12 months On-the-Job Training (OJT). On completion of the OJT, you’ll be qualified to operate the Army's Medium and Heavy wheeled Recovery Vehicles.