Assistant Minister for Defence - ADF Gap Year program for 2015

Assistant Minister for Defence, Stuart Robert, today launched the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Gap Year program for 2015.

Addressing a crowd of secondary school children and teachers in Brisbane, Mr Robert said the program provides an opportunity for young Australians, who have finished year 12 or equivalent, to experience 12 months in the military without the obligation to make a longer commitment.

‘I’m very proud to announce the reinstatement of the ADF Gap Year program for young men and women who are looking for an opportunity to broaden their career choices after secondary school and do something out of the ordinary and truly rewarding.

‘The ADF Gap Year program is a proven success, particularly in recruiting women into the ADF, and its reinstatement fulfils another of the Government’s key Defence election commitments,’ Mr Robert said.

The program will commence in January/February 2015. The Army has Gap Year opportunities for Infantry soldiers, drivers, administration clerks and supply coordinators. The Air Force has Gap Year opportunities in airbase security roles, while it is anticipated Navy will be able to accommodate Gap Year participants in future years. 

‘The ADF Gap Year program represents an investment in the youth of Australia as part of the Government’s commitment to boosting ADF recruitment while also broadening community engagement with the ADF.  

‘Once successful applicants have completed basic recruit and trade specific training, they will then be immersed in the ADF lifestyle while continuing to learn on the job, developing their skills and all while being paid a salary of more than $45,000 a year and making life-long friends,’ Mr Robert said.

Anyone interested in applying for the 2015 intake can do so from 1 June by visiting www.defencejobs.gov.au, by phoning 13 19 01 or by visiting their local Defence Force Recruiting Centre.

Media contacts:

Richard Briedis (Minister Robert's Office)        (02) 6277 7730 or  0477 391 174

Defence Media Operations                                (02) 6127 1999