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By Tamara Robinson The Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC_(Mil) CVO MC _(Retd), has reflected on some of the cadet activities he has attended in 2024, thanking the 31,000 Navy, Army and Air Force cadets, and the volunteer staff and families who support them, for their ongoing commitment. The former Chief of Army and Chief of the Defence Force has attended a range of events around Australia to engage with members to lend his support to highlight the pivotal role these initiatives play in developing youth and supporting local communities. Sir Peter said he valued the opportunity to experience first-hand the benefits that the cadet programs offer young people, and to lend his full support to the events. “The cadet programs inspire young people to come together within a safe environment and learn new skills, make new friends and reach their full potential,” said Sir Peter. “I’m honoured to once again put on a uniform to support our young people through activities that help them thrive and become responsible members of their local community.” Sir Peter started the year at the Australian Air Force Cadets National Field Craft Competition in Canungra, Queensland. In May, he attended Defence’s ADF Cadets Leadership Summit in Canberra and in August he inspected the tri-service cadets guard prior to the Vietnam Veterans’ Day parade in Warrnambool, Victoria. A week in June saw Sir Peter review an Australian Army Cadets passing out parade in Sydney, travel to Coomalie Creek in the Northern Territory for the Battalion’s Annual Field Exercise and join Air Force and Army cadets for their dining-in night in Griffith, New South Wales. His most recent travels took him along the Australian east coast in October to the Australian Navy Cadets Annual Continuous Training camp at HMAS Cerberus, Victoria, followed by an Australian Army Cadets Annual Field Exercise in Tasmania, and culminating in an Australian Air Force Cadets ceremonial parade in Queensland. At each event, Sir Peter reflected on his own experiences as an Army cadet, recalling how the challenges he faced and friendships he made laid the groundwork for his own personal development and strong sense of citizenship and community. “ADF cadets are a great example to other young Australians,” said Sir Peter. “They demonstrate great teamwork and they will forever remember their time at these activities. We need young people like these who will grow up to make big decisions.” As 2024 draws to a close, Sir Peter encouraged cadets to see their time in the programs as stepping-stones to future opportunities in Defence and in their own community. “These activities are not only about skills development, but are crucial in building the leaders of tomorrow and fostering resilient, engaged communities across Australia,” said Sir Peter. “The confidence and values cadets demonstrate gives me confidence that the cadet programs are achieving their objectives in equipping and developing young people to contribute to society and Australia’s future. “The cadet programs could not provide the experiences they do without the support from local community and volunteers. Congratulations everyone involved for your ongoing commitment in sustaining them.” Learn more about the ADF cadet programs and becoming a volunteer. Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC_(Mil) CVO MC _(Retd), joined cadets from across the country at the Australian Navy Cadets Annual Continuous Training national camp at HMAS Cerberus. The week-long event gave cadets the opportunity to engage in and observe a variety of Navy-like and maritime activities, including Survival at Sea training, mud runs, Firefighting and Damage Control activities, tours of the Seamanship School, Defence Force School of Signals and ADF Physical Trainer School, as well as demonstrations of live fire at West Head Gunnery Range and a visit from Navy helicopters. Cadets also experienced a night on MV Sycamore, learning about the ship’s history and observing its features. PHOTOGRAPHER: LSIS Sittichai Sakonpoonpol Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC_(Mil) CVO MC _(Retd), addressed 30 high-performing senior cadets during the leadership theory sessions at the second annual ADF Cadets Tri-Service Leadership Summit in Canberra. Cadets engaged in leadership development activities, participated in the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, and undertook the Leadership Reaction Course at Majura Range focusing on tri-Service collaboration. PHOTOGRAPHER: Chris McGrane

Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC_(Mil) CVO, MC _(Retd), joined Army and Air Force cadets at the Tasmania Battalion Annual Field Exercise, held at Stony Head Military Training Area. As an honoured guest, Sir Peter observed cadets as they participated in activities, addressed the quorum with a speech, and presented awards including two Long Service awards. PHOTOGRAPHER: CAPT Cameron Wise

From riding in the back of military vehicles to testing their limits in a physical training session, nearly 1000 Victorian secondary school students were given a rare glimpse into a possible future with the Australian Army.  Students from 38 schools, from Wodonga down to the Mornington Peninsula, attended the Army careers day at Puckapunyal Military Area on September 13, speaking to soldiers about their roles and responsibilities.  They observed weaponry, played with robotics and learnt about different pathways into the ADF, while listening to the Australian Army Band Kapooka.  Trumpet player Sergeant Steve Carter said events like the careers day were a great opportunity for young people to discover opportunities within the ADF that they may not have known about. “This is my 30th year and I’ve loved every year of it. It’s a great way to make music, make friends, and a great way to serve the nation,” Sergeant Carter said.  “If we can meet them today, shake a hand, get them along to some work experience opportunities, that’s absolutely gold.” Sergeant Lauren McConnell spoke to teachers and students about her own journey.  “I had some ADF members come to my school, and I never forgot it … I plan to be a lifer. I think we’ve got a very good gig here in the Army. You can always make new friends and gain new experiences. So I’ll be in for a while,” Sergeant McConnell said. “Youth career days like this are great to give the younger generations an understanding of what they could do if they join the Army.” Director of Youth Policy and Programs David Atkins said there were many careers available in the ADF. “Having the opportunity to talk with serving members goes a long way in helping gain that knowledge,” Mr Atkins said. “Students are not only learning about what roles are available, the application process, what training is available and the benefits, they are also gaining valuable insight into the ADF culture.”  To find out more about ADF Youth Programs and work experience opportunities, visit www.defenceyouth.gov.au

Written by Tamara Robinson The Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Military) CVO MC (Retired), recently joined more than 150 cadets from across Australia at the Australian Navy Cadets National Camp. The annual camp for Navy cadets was first introduced in 2018, with this year’s camp held across HMAS Albatross and HMAS Creswell in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales. One of the first tasks Sir Peter observed was Survival at Sea training, requiring cadets to paddle a 25-person life raft to safety while battling simulated treacherous conditions.  Impressed by their efforts, Sir Peter joined them as they climbed the rope ladder onto the wharf. When you’re out there you’re working together, everyone helping everyone all the time,” said Sir Peter. Sir Peter spent the next several hours aboard the merchant vessel Sycamore, a Navy training ship, engaging with cadets as they were steering the ship, exploring the engine room, completing firefighting and medical drills, and touring the helicopter command station. Back on shore, Sir Peter joined cadets and staff for dinner. “You are a great example to lots of other young Australians. You demonstrate great teamwork and camaraderie,” Sir Peter said. “Navy has a reputation for bravery and veracity. There’s something so special about being part of a ship’s company. “You will forever remember your time here. We need young people like you who will grow up to make big decisions. Well done for being here, and well done to all who have made it happen.” A major undertaking, the national camp was supported by Navy members and over 40 adult staff volunteers. All cadets enjoyed a range of self-development opportunities including firefighting, ship steering, ADF parachute simulations, helicopter tours and life raft drills. In addition, the 2023 camp saw the inclusion of Australian Army Cadets and Australian Air Force Cadets. This provided an exciting opportunity for them to try their hand at new skills and experiences. The event provided all cadets with valuable teamwork and leadership experience, as well as exposure to career opportunities and life in the Navy. If you'd like to find out about getting involved as a cadet or a volunteer, head to https://www.defenceyouth.gov.au/ for more information. Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Military) CVO MC (Retired) joined cadets on the wharf following their Survival at Sea training. Photographer Penelope Godfrey Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Military) CVO MC (Retired), travelled out to MV Sycamore aboard a rigid-hulled inflatable boat with Commodore David Greaves, Commander Barry Pincombe and Cadet Warrant Officer Hudson. Photographer Penelope Godfrey The Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Military) CVO MC (Retired) joined cadets on MV Sycamore where he observed a range of activities, including firefighting drills. Photographer Penelope Godfrey

Written by Tamara Robinson Patron of the ADF Cadets, General (retd) Sir Peter Cosgrove acknowledged the strength and resilience of more than 100 cadets who participated in the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge. Teams of Australian Army and Australian Air Force cadets competed in a variety of challenges spread across the 6000 hectares of Kokoda Barracks, at Canungra in Queensland, last month. By the end of day two the teams, made up of 10 cadets of all ranks and experience, had marched more than 30 kilometres through challenging tropical terrain and completed a range of physically demanding scenario-based activities. These included treatment and evacuation of survivors after a simulated disaster, military-like field craft and engineering, and radio communication and navigation. On the final day, teams completed the confidence course – a series of more than 20 obstacles that had cadets swinging across a ‘ravine’, wading through a waist-deep ‘creek’, crawling through flooded tunnels and submerged trenches, and scrambling over a-frame log walls and under heavy cargo nets. Teamwork and effective communication were critical, and the uplifting cheers of support and encouragement echoed through the rainforest as the cadets pushed each other to the finish line. Sir Peter was there to witness their achievements and present awards to the competition winners in the completion parade. “Historically, Canungra is a centre of excellence, particularly soldier development,” he said. “Many thousands have passed through here for training, including myself in 1968, and it holds a very important place in the history of Australia’s armed forces. "I am thrilled to visit the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge in this location as the patron.” He thanked those who supported the development and operation of the challenge, and congratulated all the teams. “You would not be here if you were not up to the challenge, and every one of you should go home with your heads held high. “As part of this challenge, we also recognise excellence. We witnessed 10 teams compete this week, all superior and with not a struck match between the place-getters.” Together with Colonel Scott Denner and Colonel (Australian Army Cadets) Lynda Galloway, Sir Peter presented the top three teams – South Queensland in third place, Victoria in second place and Western Australia in first – with their badges before dismissing the cadets to celebrate their achievements together. For more information on joining cadets or volunteering, visit Youth HQ. Australian Army Cadets and Australian Air Force Cadets complete an obstacle course activity as part of the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge 2023 at Kokoda Barracks in Canungra, South Queensland. Australian Army Cadets during an obstacle course activity as part of the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge 2023 at Kokoda Barracks in Canungra, South Queensland. Australian Army Cadets conduct a stretcher carry to simulate a casualty evacuation as part of a training scenario during the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge 2023 at Kokoda Barracks in Canungra, South Queensland.

Written by Denisse Valenzuela Recently named as the inaugural patron for ADF Cadets, General (retd) Sir Peter Cosgrove has met with Service Cadet organisations and ADF Cadet Headquarters in Canberra to discuss plans to enhance the program. The ADF Cadets is a community-based youth development organisation focused on Defence customs, traditions and values. There are about 28,000 cadets currently enrolled in the three cadet programs, with 4400 cadet staff who supervise and support the young people and more than 500 units across all states and territories. Sir Peter’s appointment comes as part of a $1 billion upgrade to 73 ADF reserve and cadet facilities across Australia throughout the next 10 years. The enhancement program will focus on growing cadet and volunteer numbers and establishing new units in rural and remote areas, including in Indigenous communities. Sir Peter will use his extensive military experience, spanning from his time as an ADF cadet himself through to his appointment as the 26th Governor-General of Australia, to help raise awareness of the ADF Cadet program and the value it brings to both its members and their local community. Sir Peter began his career as a cadet recruit through Waverley College NSW in 1960 and became the adjutant of his unit. He went on to win the Major General Chapman Cane Award for Best Cadet in Unit in 1964. The patron remembers his time in the cadets fondly and attributes many of his leadership qualities to the lessons he learned as a young cadet. “The aim of the ADF Cadet program is to inspire young people within a safe environment to come together to learn new life skills, make new friends and reach their full potential,” Sir Peter said. “The ADF Cadets is a unique program that allows us to foster the next generation of community leaders. “As cadets, young people learn leadership, team building and survival skills that will set them up for life.” Sir Peter will be travelling to visit individual cadet units around Australia to promote and volunteer cadet staff growth, emphasising that cadets would not be able to provide the experiences it does without the support from the local community and the involvement of volunteers. “I’m honoured to once again put on a uniform to support our young people through activities that help them thrive and become responsible members of their local community,” Sir Peter said. More information on joining the ADF Cadets can be found at: www.cadetnet.gov.au

The Secretary and the Chief of the Defence Force have released Defence’s vision for engaging with and supporting the development of Australia’s young people. The Youth Engagement Statement (the Statement), strengthens the vision and principles of Defence youth engagement. Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell said, “Defence is proud to support the development of Australia’s young people. Our programs incorporate leadership and teamwork activities that contribute to the personal and professional growth of participants.” Secretary of the Department of Defence Greg Moriarty said, “Defence values the voice and perspectives of Australia’s youth as our future leaders. People are Defence’s most important capability and how we engage youth has direct links on our connection with communities.”   The Statement outlines an enterprise-wide vision, empowering our people by providing guidance on the delivery of programs that support Defence’s connection with communities, educational institutions and our future workforce. The principles of the Statement align with the Youth Engagement Policy and One Defence approach of delivering youth activities that are coordinated and well governed across the enterprise, ensuring the safety and security of young people when they engage with Defence. You can view the Defence Youth Engagement Statement here. For further information or guidance in relation to the Statement or youth engagement policy contact the Youth Policy team. Email: defence.youth@defence.gov.au

The Artwork story symbolises the important role that Elders, communities and people have in sharing knowledge, wisdom, culture and stories that support our young people and future generations in their journey of life. It shows the importance of relationships and connection between people as the foundations of learning, listening, sharing and growing. The concept of Learning and Walking Together values First Nations peoples, our culture and how it contributes to the cultural capability and work of Defence. This concept also recognises that opportunities for First Nations peoples to come together with Defence Work Experience Program, provides stepping stones/pathways for growth and future careers. At the heart of the artwork is our young people and the surrounding Defence peoples, mentors, communities, families and Elders that support through Learning and Walking Together. Artist: Lynnice Letty Church & Leilani Keen-Church
Tribes: Ngunnawal, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi

Twelve students from the Walgett and Lightning Ridge region in NSW have embarked on an exciting journey through Defence’s work experience Indigenous Youth Program. The program works in collaboration with the NSW Government’s Educational Pathways Program to introduce Indigenous students, and their friends, to training and employment opportunities within Defence. During the week-long program across NSW and ACT Defence sites, students immersed themselves in Defence culture, learning about careers and taking on activities such as sea survival skills at HMAS Albatross and the over-water obstacle course at the Australian Defence Force Academy. Participants Malanjei Lane and Levi McCabe climb the over-water obstacle course as part of the Indigenous Youth Program. Head teacher NSW Education Educational Careers Pathway Program Timothy Wykes said the program was incredibly rewarding for students because they dove headfirst and immersed themselves in Navy, Army and Air Force life. “The program pushed the students out of their comfort zones and encouraged them to apply teamwork, leadership and communication skills,” Mr Wykes said. “It was great to see the students still buzzing with excitement long after the bus ride home.” For students such as Bryton Seabrook and Nick Newton, they now have a challenging decision ahead of them, drawn to multiple career paths within Defence.   Nicholas Newton in tunnel course at Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra.   “Exploring the role of an aviation technician in the Navy is very interesting, but also working on helicopters sounds great,” Mr Seabrook said. Mr Newton followed with: “I am really interested in an infantry role in the Army; however, being a seamanship and small-arms specialist [boatswain’s mate] also looks cool”. While fellow student George Kennedy, inspired by his grandfather’s service in World War 2, aims to follow in his footsteps and become an Army officer, Markel McBride dreams of navigating the seas as a Navy chef and Skye Noyes aspires to be a boatswain’s mate in the Navy. Manager for Defence Work Experience ACT and Southern NSW Isabel Massey said it was a privilege to meet and spend a week with the 12 students. Skye Noyes finishing the tunnel course activity at Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra.   “It was inspiring to see these students taking on leadership roles and achieving things they may not have previously thought possible,” she said. “The feedback from the teachers is that the students are still buzzing with excitement over their experience.” The Indigenous Youth Program is an opportunity for students to get a taste of Defence culture and the career opportunities available. It also offers a safe place for students and Defence employees to discuss culture and identity. Defence’s work experience program invests in developing the skills of young Australians. You can find out more about the program and the wide variety of pathways into Defence here. Originally published on defence.gov.au

The Puckapunyal Military Area was a sea of orange vests in early September when more than 1300 school students from 41 schools and colleges across Victoria attended a Defence Work Experience Program open day. The students got up close with Army vehicles and equipment, including Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles, Australian light armoured vehicles, artillery, tanks, G-Wagons, as well as military working dogs. They also did some physical training. Lieutenant Colonel James McGann said the response from students was overwhelmingly positive. “Across the day, I was impressed with the positive attitudes of the students and their willingness to learn. This was a real hands-on experience, and one I hope they remember for a long time to come,” Lieutenant Colonel McGann said. Defence Work Experience Program manager for Victoria Navi Kaur said the students’ enthusiasm was impressive. “The personnel were so engaged and happy to talk to the students, and help them understand what life in the military is like. The feedback we received from the schools involved was so positive,” Ms Kaur said. Careers and pathway coordinator from Echuca College Lorelle Pearse said the event catered across Years 7 to 12. “I have never, in 18 years of career coordination, been at an event that was suitable for all ages, and in a time where we want our young people to experience careers even earlier in their lives, this event out-performed all others,” Ms Pearse said. “The 46 students we took across were so pleased with the day. “I walked into the office when we got back and one of the Year 9 students was talking to the assistant principal, and he said ‘that was one of the best career events I have ever been to because the people were so real, they really wanted to talk about their careers and what they do and how they feel about it’ – I can’t ask for a better career education than that for my students.” The Defence Work Experience Program is designed to expose students to corps, trades and daily routines they would expect should they pursue a career in the ADF. By Captain Carlie Gibson Originally appeared on Defence News: https://www.defence.gov.au/news-events/news/2023-09-18/students-leave-open-day-enthused

Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Abuse – 2022 Annual Progress Report. On 15 December 2017, the Royal Commission presented their Final Report to the Governor General, detailing the findings from a five-year inquiry into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The report set out what was heard by victims and survivors; and the Commission’s conclusions and recommendations to better prevent and respond to child sexual abuse in institutions. The Australian Government committed to deliver five consecutive annual reports until December 2022, outlining the progress on the implementation of the Royal Commission recommendations. The fifth annual progress report was tabled in Parliament on 14 December 2022. The Royal Commission did not direct any specific recommendations to the Department of Defence. However, nine systemic issues in Defence were identified and have been addressed and subsequently led to the development of the Defence Youth Safety Framework.     Defence’s contribution to the 2022 Report. Defence continues to proactively address issues through the implementation and ongoing evaluation of the Defence Youth Safety Framework. The framework includes all aspects of Defence’s engagement with youth to provide them with physical and psychological safety, protection from abuse and protection of their overall wellbeing. Defence is also:

refining and improving its youth safety training curriculum and delivery. More than 55,000 Defence personnel have completed the Level 1 Youth Safety Training Awareness, which became mandatory for all ADF members in June 2022.

reviewing, updating and implementing the Defence Youth Safety Framework and supporting systems to ensure they remain up to date, relevant and effective. On 21 March 2022, Defence held its first virtual Defence Youth Safe Forum, ‘Youth Safe Culture: Embed, Empower, Champion’. The forum demonstrated Defence’s commitment to youth safety and protection.

Defence remains committed to providing trauma-informed restorative justice and redress to victims and survivors of historical abuse in a way that focuses on their needs. Defence redress for people who have experienced abuse, including sexual abuse by members of the ADF includes:

direct personal responses

counselling

financial payments.

  What’s next? Recommendation 17.4 of the Royal Commission’s Final Report states the Australian Government should initiate a review to be conducted 10 years after the tabling of the report. The purpose of the review will be to:

establish the extent to which the Royal Commission’s recommendations have been implemented

examine the extent to which the measures taken in response to the Royal Commission have been effective in preventing child sexual abuse, improving the responses of institutions to child sexual abuse and ensuring that victims and survivors of child sexual abuse obtain justice, treatment and support

advise on what further steps should be taken by governments and institutions to ensure continuing improvement in policy and service delivery in relation to child sexual abuse in institutional contexts.

Defence will actively engage with the leading government authority for the review and provide a timely response in consideration of the above points.

A range of youth initiatives, combined with enhancements to previous programs have been delivered/implemented by Defence:

The Air Force Indigenous Youth Program provides Indigenous candidates with hands-on experience, highlighting the range of career opportunities available within Air Force. During 2020–21 the program was suspended due to COVID. It was reinstated in June 2021. (2020-2021 Report)

Pathway programs to support Indigenous Australians progressing to a career in the ADF were conducted in Cairns, Darwin, Kapooka and Wagga Wagga. In addition, the Defence Work Experience Program hosted 437 Indigenous students across Australia. (2019-2020 Report)

Planning for future Defence Work Experience placements are ongoing and will be implemented when it is safe to do so in accordance with the relevant policies and procedures governing the States and Territories. As placements are confirmed, they will be advertised on our online placement list and we encourage you to check the website regularly.
A body of work has been completed to ensure that future placements are planned.

Australia’s Youth Policy Framework outlines how Australian Government policies and programs are supporting and improving the lives of young Australians. It acknowledges disruptions to education, employment and social opportunities for young people caused by COVID-19.    Read More