Australian Army Cadets
Why volunteer
As an adult volunteer, you are more than just a supervisor; you are a mentor, a leader, and a role model. Your involvement directly impacts the ability of young Australians to find their confidence and achieve their potential within their own communities.
Inspire Leadership
Guide cadets as they navigate the challenges of the Development Continuum. Your experience helps them transition from participants to capable, resilient leaders.
Strengthen Community
By volunteering your time, you strengthen the link between the Australian Army and your local area, fostering a sense of shared purpose and civic pride.
Anyone can volunteer
Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Australian Army Cadets. We look for adults with the right attitude and a passion for youth development to help us deliver a program that challenges and inspires. Whether you have a few hours a month or want to take on a leadership role, there is a place for you.
Defence Approved Helper (DAH)
Perfect for those who want to assist at units without the military commitment. DAHs do not wear a uniform or undergo military training, but provide vital support under the supervision of qualified staff.
Army Cadet Staff (ACS)
For those ready to lead. ACS are trained to manage and operate the program, wear the AAC uniform and rank, and may be eligible for financial compensation for their service.
Minimum Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Completion of a National Police Check (facilitated by the AAC).
- Possession of a valid State/Territory Working with Children Check (WWCC).
- Completion of mandatory youth safety training.
- Adherence to the ADF Cadets Code of Conduct (Adult).
Volunteer Status: Per Section 62 of the Defence Act 1903, AAC volunteers are not members of the Australian Defence Force. Acceptance as a volunteer does not create a civil contract with the Crown or Commonwealth.
Staff Note: Army Cadet Staff (ACS) are not commissioned officers and remain volunteer adult participants within the organisation.
How to join
Starting your journey as a volunteer is a straightforward process, but it begins with finding the right fit for you and the organisation.
1. Locate a Unit
Use the Find a Unit tool to see what is available in your area. Please note that School-Based Units are generally restricted to teachers or parents of students at that specific school.
2. Check Recruitment Status
Not all units are recruiting adult staff at all times. When viewing a unit's page, look for the "Apply to volunteer with this unit" button. If the button is not present, that unit is not currently accepting Expressions of Interest (EOI).
3. Submit an Expression of Interest
If the unit is recruiting, fill in the EOI form provided on their page. If you have specific questions or the button is missing but you'd still like to chat, we encourage you to reach out to the Unit Point of Contact (POC) listed on their profile.
Choosing your unit
Your journey as a volunteer depends on the type of unit you wish to join. While the mission remains the same, the requirements for adult staff vary based on the unit's affiliation.
School-Based Units
Established within a specific school for its students. As an adult volunteer, you generally need an existing professional or parental relationship with the school to be eligible for enrolment.
Community-Based Units
Open to all eligible youth in the area. These units operate from Defence or community facilities. We encourage you to use the 'Find a Unit' tool to establish a relationship with your local Unit Commander.
Inclusive Participation & Wellbeing
The Australian Army Cadets is an inclusive organisation. We encourage volunteers with varied health conditions to apply, provided those conditions can be managed safely within the program's unique environment.
Essential Health Information
- Role Readiness: Volunteers must maintain a level of health that allows them to perform their duties without risking themselves or others.
- Health Declaration: All applicants must declare health conditions during registration. This ensures we can facilitate your involvement safely.
- Reasonable Adjustments: We work to provide inclusiveness through Health Management Plans (HMP) or Individual Management Plans (IMP) where reasonably practicable.
- Medical Clearance: To maintain a safe environment, some individuals may be required to undergo a medical clearance as a condition of participation.
Standards of behaviour
The Australian Army Cadets is built on a foundation of mutual respect and discipline. As an adult volunteer, you are the primary architect of this environment. You don’t just enforce the standards—you embody them.
Leadership by Example
Volunteers are expected to set the benchmark for professionalism and conduct. By maintaining high personal standards, you provide cadets with a clear example of what it means to lead with integrity and respect.
A Youth-Safe Culture
We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to unacceptable behaviours. Our focus is on proactive safety—promoting youth-safe behaviours and ensuring that every cadet feels protected, valued, and heard at all times.
The ADF Cadets Code of Conduct (Adult)
All adults in the program must commit to this Code. It establishes the minimum standards for youth-safe interaction and provides a clear framework for adult responsibility within the ADF Cadets.
Adhering to these standards ensures the Australian Army Cadets remains a premier, safe environment for youth development.
Your professional pathway
You don't need a military background to lead in the Australian Army Cadets. We provide a comprehensive, modular training pathway that equips you with the skills to mentor youth and conduct activities safely and professionally.
The ALDC Training Pathway
The Adult Leader Development Continuum (ALDC) is designed to grow with you, moving from foundational safety to advanced unit command:
Your entry point. Covers organisational induction, basic military skills, and the skills required to plan and conduct Grade 1 activities at your local unit.
Advanced activity management. This course provides the skills to lead overnight field exercises and medium-risk activities away from the unit depot.
Strategic Command. A residential course for those stepping into unit leadership, focusing on governance, safety obligations, and command philosophy.
Tailor your contribution[cite: 5]. Specialist courses are available for those wishing to focus on Administration, Logistics, Training, or Youth Mental Health First Aid[cite: 5].
The Mission: Volunteering isn't about teaching military tactics; it’s about providing a safe, professional environment where young people can find their edge and thrive.