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Twenty Western Australian high school students gained a firsthand look at life in the Royal Australian Navy as the Defence Work Experience Program (DWEP) returned to HMAS Stirling following a 12-month pause. The three-day program, held from 9 to 11 June 2026, welcomed students aged 15 to 18 from schools across Western Australia. As part of Defence’s commitment to increasing opportunities for First Nations Australians, DWEP removed barriers for five Indigenous students from Laverton School to participate, supporting the objectives outlined in the Defence First Nations Commitment. Throughout the program, students took part in tours and activities across a range of departments at HMAS Stirling, providing insight into the diverse career pathways available within the Navy. They also had the opportunity to speak directly with serving Navy personnel, gaining valuable firsthand perspectives on service life, training and career development. The reinstatement of DWEP marks an important step in reconnecting Defence with young Australians interested in exploring future career opportunities. By exposing students to the breadth of roles available across the Navy, the program aims to inspire the next generation of Defence personnel while strengthening engagement with communities across Western Australia.

Navy, Army and Air Force cadets from across Australia gathered in Canberra for the annual Australian Defence Force Cadets Tri-Service Leadership Summit, an opportunity for cadets to learn skills that can be used in their home units. Over several days, 30 cadets engaged in a range of activities focused on ethical leadership, teamwork and decision-making. These included workshops delivered by the Centre for Defence Leadership and Ethics, team-based problem-solving activities such as the leadership reaction course, and collaborative exercises aimed at enhancing communication skills. A key aspect of the summit for the cadets was engagement with senior Defence leaders including Chief of Personnel Lieutenant General Natasha Fox and Head of the Reserve and Cadet Support Division Major General Michelle Campbell, who gave cadets insight into leadership experiences and pathways within Defence. Major General Campbell said: “The summit provided cadets with meaningful leadership development opportunities, helping them build life skills, confidence and a strong sense of belonging, while enabling tri-service connections and friendships to flourish." The program also included reflective and ceremonial components. Cadets participated in the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, undertook a tour of the memorial, and shared their experiences during a formal dinner featuring a keynote address by the 2026 Northern Territory Australian of the Year, Squadron Leader Felix Ho. “No matter where their future takes them - within Defence or as leaders in their communities - experiences like the Leadership Summit help inspire and prepare cadets to make a positive difference,” Major General Campbell said. To find out more about joining the cadets or becoming an adult staff volunteer, visit ADF Cadets programs Selected Australian Navy Cadets, Australian Army Cadets, and Australian Air Force Cadets from across Australia, attended the fourth annual ADF Cadets Tri-Service Leadership Summit in Canberra from 15 to 17 May 2026. Cadets engaged in leadership development activities, participated in the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, attended a formal dinner at Duntroon House and undertook the Leadership Reaction Course at the Majura Range focusing on tri-Service collaboration. They had the opportunity to meet other cadets from across the country and engage with senior leadership from the Australian Defence Force.

For more than 30,000 young Australians who participate in the ADF cadet programs, instructors and officers of cadets, and Defence approved helpers are mentors and role models. Through weekly parade nights and school holiday camps, dedicated volunteers give their time to invest in the next generation and develop future leaders within their communities. In recognition of National Volunteer Week, in the United Nations International Year of Volunteers, senior Defence leaders have thanked the more than 4900 volunteer staff for their ongoing support of the ADF cadet programs. Head of Reserve and Cadet Support Division, Major General Michelle Campbell, extended her personal thanks to the volunteer instructors and officers of cadets, and Defence approved helpers who are critical to the success of more than 500 cadet units across Australia. “It is a privilege to meet staff from all states and territories who give up their time to foster the next generation of community leaders,” Major General Campbell said. “It is their commitment and sacrifice that enables the ADF cadet programs to develop capable, confident and resilient young adults.” This sentiment was echoed by Director General Australian Navy Cadets Commodore David Greaves, Commander Australian Army Cadets Brigadier David McCammon, and Director General Australian Air Force Cadets, Air Commodore Anthony Bull, in recognising the volunteers. The ADF cadet programs are the largest youth development programs within Defence. Through the dedication of ADF cadet staff, the programs help cadets develop skills aligned with Defence values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence. See video and find out more about becoming a volunteer on CadetNet. Director General Australian Navy Cadets Commodore David Greaves, Commander Australian Army Cadets Brigadier David McCammon, and Director General Australian Air Force Cadets, Air Commodore Anthony Bull express their thanks to the ADF cadet volunteer staff. Photo: Karlee Holland

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