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Who we are

The Australian Army Cadets is a national youth development program that proudly shares the character and values of the Australian Army.

It is a partnership between the Australian Army and the community.

Who we are

The Cadet Program is enabled and supported by Army, it is supervised by adult volunteers from the community, and cadets not only participate but also have opportunities to develop their abilities and lead their peers.

Join the Australian Army Cadets

Australian Army Cadets seeks to build key attributes within youth by instilling a sense of:

  • Identity - cadets wear the uniform of the Australian Army, with cadet insignia
  • Purpose – cadets participate in community activities and assist and help develop junior cadets
  • Belonging – cadets organise and lead activities and, through their leadership group, have a strong voice in the development of the Program

Cadets are not members of the Australian Defence Force and it is not used as a recruiting process for the Australian Army.  Australian Army Cadets is a diverse organisation open to young people of all abilities provided a safe environment can be maintained.  Part of youth development is providing challenging opportunities in a safe manner that also encourages fun and friendship.

Testimonials

I joint Cadets when I was 13.  I didn’t know what to expect, but the senior cadets and adults were really encouraging.  They helped me learn everything I needed to know.  I was really nervous on my first camp, but now they are my favourite part of cadets because I get to hang out with my mates and lean new things.  (John, 15yo)

I had done some camping before, but in cadets I have learnt how to do navigation and survive in the bush.  Last year I went on a drone course and there were some Army instructors who showed us some of their equipment, which included radios and cameras.  I’m thinking about studying a technical course after high school.  (Rebecca, 17)

I’ve been in cadets for three years in a small unit and have done a number of the leadership courses.  I’m now a Cadet Sergeant and I assist in running most of the weekly parades. I also get to plan our camp activities, though the Army Cadet Staff, ensure that it is run safely.  The planning and presentation skills have given me a lot of confidence and I really enjoy seeing my plans come to life.  (Deborah, 16)