Women in the Air Force
Every role in the Air Force is open to women, who enjoy excellent career opportunities, an exciting lifestyle, a supportive environment and equal opportunities for education and advancement.
A culture of career equality
Today's Air Force is an excellent career choice for women. You'll receive exactly the same training, vocational development and promotion opportunities as your male colleagues.
We are a single unified team, committed to operating within a framework of equality. We believe career development and rewards should be based on potential, effort and achievement; regardless of gender, religion or cultural backgrounds.
A good work / life balance
Most Air Force jobs have regular hours, giving you plenty of opportunities to socialise, spend time with your family, and make the most of the extensive sports, fitness and leisure facilities on base.
You'll make friends for life at work and at play, and through amazing shared experiences such as supporting peacekeeping and disaster-relief missions. Even when you're working away from home, your days will usually be structured to balance work time with relaxation.
Full support for family needs
Air Force mums are given the flexibility and support to manage their family commitments without detriment to their careers. This includes the provision of extended leave and part-time work options when appropriate, and the offer of alternative or 'on hold' career paths to accommodate changes in circumstances.
You'll have access to family programs run by the Defence Member and Family Support, which include:
- 24/7 support during deployment, relocation and time apart
- Partner employment
- Children's education services
- Childcare
- Crisis support.
A healthy lifestyle
It's important for Air Force personnel to be fit enough to carry out their duties effectively, and keeping fit will be an integral part of your job. You'll have free access to pools and well-equipped fitness facilities and can enjoy a wide range of team sports on base.
This guide will help you to get started on your fitness journey, including practising correct techniques for your Pre-entry Fitness Assessment (PFA).
Pathways for women
This flexible enlistment pathway has been developed with the needs of female candidates seeking full-time roles in mind.
Recruit When Ready is for you, if you demonstrate high potential when interviewed and are keen to join as soon as possible.
- Lets you start at a time that suits your personal circumstances
- Open to all General Entry roles
Recruit to Area is for you, if serving in a specific location is a high priority for reasons such as family commitments.
- First posting near your home or desired location
- Open to all General Entry (non-technical) roles
- Available for first posting, after completion of recruit and initial employment training
If you are a young woman who has enrolled in an Air Force recognised Bachelor of Aviation degree, you can apply for the Graduate Pilot Scheme (GPS).
If accepted to the GPS, you will be reimbursed for tuition, textbook and training costs for up to $175,000.00 upon graduation from your course.
You will join other female candidates of similar calibre, receiving support, mentorship and companionship through your training programs and career with the Air Force.
To be selected for the GPS, you’ll need to pass aptitude and fitness tests, and successfully complete the Aviation Screening Program and Officer Selection Board.
For more information, visit the Pilot page here.