The Australian Navy Cadets (ANC) is sponsored by the Royal Australian Navy and aims to build leadership and teamwork skills in young people through adventurous and exciting learning activities in a maritime environment.
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Australian Army Cadets
The Australian Army Cadets (AAC) is a leading national youth development organisation, with the character and values of the Australian Army, founded on a strong community partnership, fostering and supporting an ongoing interest.
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Australian Air Force Cadets
The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) is administered and sponsored by the Royal Australian Air Force and aims to teach valuable life skills by developing leadership, self reliance, confidence, teamwork and communication.
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If you’re looking for the opportunity to do exciting things you don’t do in everyday life, then the Australian Defence Force (ADF) cadet programs are for you.
The ADF cadet programs are community-based youth development programs supporting young people from 13 to 18 years of age through activities focused on Defence traditions and values that help them thrive in a team environment, improve communication skills, and become responsible members of the local community.
As a cadet, you will learn leadership, team building and survival skills that will set you up for life.
There are around 32,000 cadets currently enrolled in the three cadet programs Australia-wide with hundreds of units in all states and territories – so there's bound to be one near you.
ADF Cadets Directorate (ADFCD) will host the fourth annual ADF Cadets Tri-Service Leadership Summit in Canberra from 15 to 17 May 2026. The Summit provides a select group of 30 ADF cadets with a rewarding leadership development opportunity.
Recognising ADF cadet staff this National Volunteer Week
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.
Employers recognised for cadet staff support
More than 60 civilian employers across the country have been formally recognised as part of the new Australian Defence Force (ADF) Cadet Staff Employer Recognition Program.
Patron of ADF Cadets reflects on an outstanding year
As the year draws to an end, inaugural Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd) reflects and congratulates all ADF cadets, cadet staff and their families for their ongoing commitment to and one of the leading youth development programs in Australia.
Enhancing the ADF Cadet program
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.
ADF Cadets Patron joins national camp
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
Patron of ADF Cadets reflects on busy year supporting Defence’s largest youth development programs
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
The 30 squadrons of the South Queensland region came together for the Australian Air Force Cadets 2 Wing ceremonial parade. With around 2,100 cadets and 200 staff, 2 Wing is the second largest Wing in the country. General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd), Patron of the ADF Cadets, attended the event as an honoured guest to review the parade and address the quorum.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Kaymar Kreations
Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd), and his wife Lady Lynne Cosgrove joined cadets and adult volunteer cadet staff from 340 (City of Griffith) Squadron and 223 Army Cadets Unit (Leeton) for their annual joint dining-in-night. Sir Peter presented the Patron coin to 10 cadets throughout the evening.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Danielle McKay Photography
Cadet summit shapes future leaders
ADF Cadets Directorate (ADFCD) will host the fourth annual ADF Cadets Tri-Service Leadership Summit in Canberra from 15 to 17 May 2026. The Summit provides a select group of 30 ADF cadets with a rewarding leadership development opportunity.
Recognising ADF cadet staff this National Volunteer Week
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.
Employers recognised for cadet staff support
More than 60 civilian employers across the country have been formally recognised as part of the new Australian Defence Force (ADF) Cadet Staff Employer Recognition Program.
Patron of ADF Cadets reflects on an outstanding year
As the year draws to an end, inaugural Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd) reflects and congratulates all ADF cadets, cadet staff and their families for their ongoing commitment to and one of the leading youth development programs in Australia.
Enhancing the ADF Cadet program
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.
ADF Cadets Patron joins national camp
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
Patron of ADF Cadets reflects on busy year supporting Defence’s largest youth development programs
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
The 30 squadrons of the South Queensland region came together for the Australian Air Force Cadets 2 Wing ceremonial parade. With around 2,100 cadets and 200 staff, 2 Wing is the second largest Wing in the country. General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd), Patron of the ADF Cadets, attended the event as an honoured guest to review the parade and address the quorum.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Kaymar Kreations
Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd), and his wife Lady Lynne Cosgrove joined cadets and adult volunteer cadet staff from 340 (City of Griffith) Squadron and 223 Army Cadets Unit (Leeton) for their annual joint dining-in-night. Sir Peter presented the Patron coin to 10 cadets throughout the evening.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Danielle McKay Photography
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
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
The 30 squadrons of the South Queensland region came together for the Australian Air Force Cadets 2 Wing ceremonial parade. With around 2,100 cadets and 200 staff, 2 Wing is the second largest Wing in the country. General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd), Patron of the ADF Cadets, attended the event as an honoured guest to review the parade and address the quorum.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Kaymar Kreations
Patron of the ADF Cadets, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC(Mil) CVO MC (Retd), and his wife Lady Lynne Cosgrove joined cadets and adult volunteer cadet staff from 340 (City of Griffith) Squadron and 223 Army Cadets Unit (Leeton) for their annual joint dining-in-night. Sir Peter presented the Patron coin to 10 cadets throughout the evening.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Danielle McKay Photography