INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS IN THE AIR FORCE
INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS IN THE AIR FORCE
Take your place alongside the proud Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders who enjoy financial security, enjoyable work and personal development – in the air and in support on the ground.
Enjoy all these benefits
Rewarding work, job stability, an adventurous lifestyle and a supportive workplace are just the start. In the Air Force you’ll enjoy all this too:
A competitive salary and more
Including paid training, allowances, and subsidised food and housing
Support for your health and fitness
With free dental and medical care and use of sport and fitness facilities
An inclusive team environment
With Indigenous networks and support for cultural and community events
World-class training and education
Including programs that help you reach the required education and fitness levels to join
Travel and memorable experiences
Including helping communities in need across Australia and overseas
Opportunities to lead and mentor
Gaining personal and professional skills you can take back to your community
Career Pathways for Indigenous Australians
If you show potential but would benefit from additional physical and mental preparation, you may be offered one of the alternate entry pathways below. We also offer programs for those with specific timing or location needs. But first, you’ll need to apply through the standard recruitment process (see ‘Ways to join’ section further down the page).
Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program (IPRP)
If you've been selected to join the Air Force, and want to develop your confidence, resilience and fitness before you start, the seven-week Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program might be for you. You'll get a taste of being on a military base and leave with the fitness and skills to begin your career.
Recruit When Ready
If you’re motivated to join as soon as possible, we’ll work with you to find the next available Initial Military Training course so you can kick-start your career faster.
Choose where to work
If serving in a specific location is a high priority for reasons such as family commitments, Recruit to Area could be for you.
Wherever you are located for your job, you’ll be encouraged to work closely with your community.
Return to Country/Community Program
If you want to contribute to community development, this pathway may be offered if you are serving near a specific location that is important to you, for reasons such as family commitments.
Year 12 bridging course
If you want to join the Air Force but have not been able to get the qualifications required for General or Officer Entry (including entry with a degree), this option may suit you. Suitable candidates can be assisted in gaining Year 12 equivalent qualifications. If selected for this program during the application process, you will be mentored by a member of the Air Force as you study at TAFE or University.
Support in the Air Force
Support & Guidance
Once you have completed your initial application, you will be introduced to a specialist Indigenous Career Coach for guidance and other Indigenous members who have been through the same process as you.
Once in the Air Force you can access a range of support programs, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentoring program. You will receive guidance from current serving ADF members, who will help you as you begin your career. This dedicated program will continue throughout your time in the Air Force.
Support your community
The skills and knowledge you gain will be of great use in your community, which we encourage you to support through the Air Force Return to Country/Community Program. This gives you the opportunity to inspire others and provide mentorship. Additionally, the Air Force will support your Return to Community for cultural reasons.
Stories of success
Proud Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders enjoy rewarding careers in the Air Force. Meet some of them here, and hear about their jobs.
How fit do I need to be?
You'll need a reasonable level of fitness when you join to ensure you can undertake initial training safely.
Find out about the Air Force Pre-entry Fitness Assessment on our Health & Fitness page.
If you do not meet the minimum fitness standards, you may be given the opportunity to join through an alternative pathway (see Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program (IPRP) above on this page).
Defence Reconciliation Action Plan
The Australian Defence Force is committed to reconciliation and recognises the traditional owners of the lands, seas, and skies we defend.
The terms Indigenous and Indigenous Australians are used to describe all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Please be aware that this website may contain images or content relating to deceased persons. It may also contain words and descriptions that are culturally sensitive.