ADF Gap Year Applications open for 2010

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) Gap Year program will tomorrow open applications for its 2010 intake – the third year of the program.

Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon MP said the ADF Gap Year experience had proven remarkably successful in its initial two years.

“The ADF Gap Year is about providing young Australians improved communication, leadership and problem-solving skills while having the opportunity to develop teamwork, camaraderie, integrity and self-discipline,” Mr Snowdon said.

“Gap Year represents a unique opportunity to undertake training, acquire transferable skills, gain independence and maturity, and become more self-reliant.”

The Gap Year program has been structured to offer a meaningful experience in the ADF that will expose members to military training and lifestyle in a way that would broaden their understanding and appreciation of Service life.

“This will assist Gap Year participants in making informed decisions to undertake further service in the ADF, should they so choose,” Mr Snowdon said.

“Many of them, we believe, will go on to full-time, permanent service careers, but those that don’t will find the skills that they have acquired during the Gap Year service in the ADF invaluable.

“That is a worthy investment in the future of the ADF and of Australia,” he concluded.

Places are limited for those interested in the ADF Gap Year, and not all applicants are guaranteed enlistment, even if they meet the eligibility criteria for ADFGY entry.

There are 267 places available in the Navy, 317 in the Army, and 116 in Air Force.

For more information go to www.defencejobs.gov.au/education/Gapyear/

Media contacts:

Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):           02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689

Defence Media Liaison:                         02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664