History and Background
Why we exist and how we started
The first Youth Policy Manual (YOUTHPOLMAN) was published in 2013. YOUTHPOLMAN was Defence’s primary source for youth and youth protection policy and guidance for Defence.
A youth policy reform commenced in February 2023 to ensure Defence’s youth policy and policy guidance is compliant with the Defence Instruction and Enterprise Administrative Policy Arrangements. The reform has concluded with the Youth Manual and supporting policy enabling products released in 2025. These documents replace the Youth Policy Manual.
The reformed documents are:
- fit for purpose, contemporary and easy to read and understand
- support innovation, flexibility, a positive risk culture and continuous improvement.
Defence is considered to be a leader in youth protection policy because of its agility and continuous improvement initiatives, the embedment of youth safe culture and the promotion of youth protection policies and practices.
Defence contributes to the development of whole-of-government policy as a member of multiple interdepartmental committees. Defence is an exemplar in the delivery of highly regarded youth programs including its work experience program.
Who we are?
Policy role in Youth Protection
The Youth Policy and Programs Directorate within Reserve and Cadet Support Division is responsible for the development of Defence youth related policies, training and education and assists in the implementation and delivery of youth programs including the Defence Work Experience Program.
Governance Structure
Chief of Personnel (CPERS) is responsible for providing youth protection governance and assurance that meet Defence’s youth protection obligations. Head Reserve and Cadet Support Division (HRCSD) provides support and enabling functions to ADF Cadets, Youth and ADF Reserves as pathways to service contributing to Defence Outputs.