Question 1

Why serve in the Army Reserves?

Accepted Answer

- tax-free pay and choose when you want to work.
- Serve close to home from any one of our military units located across Australia.
- Learn new skills and develop great friendships in a dynamic team environment.
- Help communities impacted by natural disasters in Australia and overseas.
- Get opportunities to travel and experience unique workplaces.
- Be part of something challenging and meaningful that makes a real impact.

Question 2

How old do I need to be to join as Army Reserve?

Accepted Answer

To apply for an ADF role you must be at least 16 years and 6 months of age when applying and 17 on the day you join.

At this age, you are considered a 'minor' so special conditions apply.

Your application must be voluntary, approved in writing by both your parents or your legal guardian(s), and accompanied by an original or certified copy of your full birth certificate.

Question 3

What is the initial training breakdown?

Accepted Answer

Your part-time Army career will start at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW. 
This training will equip you with new skills, experience and knowledge beyond your day job.

In approximately 3 weeks, you'll be challenged to step outside your comfort zone.
Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training relevant to your chosen role, which can be completed in one or more blocks as required.

Question 4

How much will I get paid?

Accepted Answer

Your pay as a Reservist will depend on your role, qualifications and rank.

You'll be paid a tax-free daily rate for each day you work and train and engage in exercises. You'll also receive food, accommodation and medical care while on deployments and training.

To receive a full day's pay, you must work at least six hours. Otherwise, you will receive a half day's pay for three hours work. 
Your regular weekly parade night is considered as a half day.

Please note that Reservists employed in continuous full-time service will receive the standard (taxable) annual salary for their role.

Question 5

I'm getting Centrelink payments - will I still receive them if I join?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the pay you receive from the Army Reserve will not affect any Centrelink payments you currently receive (unless you are engaged in a role that involves continuous full-time employment).

Question 6

How many hours a day do I work as an Army Reservist?

Accepted Answer

Reserve members may be employed from a minimum of 3 hours up to 24 hours in a day, depending on the service agreement (approved periods of duty) or the operating environment demands. 
Reserve members generally work a partial day of 3 hours, or a normal full working day of 6 to 7.5 hours.

Question 7

I'm self-employed, can I apply for the employer benefits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's possible to claim the employer benefits associated with your part-time service, even if you are your own employer.

Having your employer's support of your Reserve service is invaluable when managing your service obligations, 
such as requesting leave to attend training or an exercise.

This is especially important if you are nominated for a 
period of continuous Service training or a deployment.

Your employer will be more likely to support you if they recognise the extra skills and qualities, you are gaining 
and how these skills can assist their business or organisation.

Reserves website: https://www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au/

Question 8

How long is my commitment?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum period of service in the Army Reserve as service is voluntary. You can leave and return whenever you want to.
Once trained you'll be expected to complete a minimum of 20 days of service each year.

Question 9

What is my commitment per year?

Accepted Answer

Once trained, you'll be expected to complete a minimum of 20 days of service each year.

You'll also attend Parade Nights at your home unit (usually on a Tuesday night) with the opportunity to attend training courses, exercises and operational deployments.

You'll have the opportunity to attend training courses, exercises and operational deployments, which will occur on weekends, and in 1 to 2-week blocks.

Completing training counts towards your days served. 
For example, if you attend a 10-day course, you only need to serve 10 additional days to meet the minimum requirements.

Question 10

Will I get deployed?

Accepted Answer

Deployments are voluntary so it's entirely up to you. 
The types of deployment can vary, which is why they're so exciting. 
It might involve being stationed at a temporary facility on combat, disaster relief or peacekeeping and aid operations.

deployment is optional, there are situations where a Call Out for Reserve Support is mandatory, such as the 2019/20 Bushfire response. 
Exemptions may be granted due to extenuating circumstances and/or for members who are already in direct support in an Emergency Role, such as Paramedics.

Question 11

Do I need to hold a driver's licence?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need a driver’s licence for this role but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Question 12

I did my schooling overseas. Does it need to be assessed to determine Australian equivalency prior to submitting an application? How do I arrange this?

Accepted Answer

All overseas qualifications submitted must be accompanied by an assessment of Australian equivalencies. 
The Education Department of each state and territory in Australia individually assess overseas academic qualifications.

Use the following link to access their contact details:
https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/

Question 13

I have a trade qualification from overseas. Who do I contact to assess my qualifications for Australian equivalency?

Accepted Answer

If you have a trade qualification and foreign military service, you could be eligible for an overseas lateral transfer.

If you have a trade qualification and don't have foreign military service, you should speak to an ADF Careers recruiter to find out more information about your specific situation.

Question 14

How fit do I have to be?

Accepted Answer

Keeping fit is a big part of joining the ADF. 
You’ll need to pass a physical fitness test before you join, but don’t worry, we'll give you tips to help you prepare.

If you need a fitness partner, download the ADF Active mobile app. 
By adding in your details, you’ll learn proper techniques, get your baseline fitness analysed and get a plan designed to help you achieve your PFA.

Question 15

Fitness requirements

Accepted Answer

General Entry Combat roles and Officer Entry roles
Female
•	Sit-ups (feet held) 45
•	Push-ups 8
•	Shuttle Run Score (7.5)
Male
•	Sit-ups (feet held) 45
•	Push-ups 15
•	Shuttle Run Score (7.5)
 
General Entry Combat Support roles
Female
•	Sit-ups (feet held) 20
•	Push-ups 4
•	Shuttle Run Score (6.1)
Male
•	Sit-ups (feet held) 20
•	Push-ups 8
•	Shuttle Run Score (6.1)

Question 16

What if I have a visual impairment, wear glasses, or I'm colour-blind?

Accepted Answer

Each role has a minimum entry standard for Colour Perception (CP) and Minimum Visual Requirement (MVR) which will determine which roles you can apply for.

Your vision will be assessed at your medical examination, so if you use vision aids (glasses and contact lenses) be sure to wear them on the day.

Question 17

Can I join the ADF if I have asthma?

Accepted Answer

Whether you can join will depend on your asthma history, medication, disease control and the specific requirements of the role you are applying for.

Question 18

Can I join the ADF with a hearing impairment?

Accepted Answer

Each role has hearing standard requirements, so the outcome depends on the individual and their role preference.

The cause of hearing loss, the progression of the condition, and the functional impact are all considered. 
Please note, asymmetrical hearing loss can have an underlying medical cause.

If this is your case you may require a further ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) review to exclude other conditions.

Question 19

Can I join the ADF with diabetes?

Accepted Answer

The type of diabetes and its management, along with the specific requirements of the role you are applying for will determine whether you can join.

Question 20

What if I have physical or mental health issues?

Accepted Answer

Your mental and physical health are important to the ADF and will be supported by qualified health professionals in a safe and secure environment so your privacy is respected.

The ADF provides free healthcare to full-time members (and Reserves in some circumstances), including medical and dental treatment, mental health services, ambulance transport and hospitalisation.

Additionally, the ADF has physical training instructors to deliver group fitness classes as well as personalised training programs and fitness training advice.

Question 21

What if I have a criminal record?

Accepted Answer

All applicants must undergo a police check. On application, you will be asked to detail any offence or criminal history.

Your suitability for service will be assessed based on the information provided. 
Your application or service may be terminated if you fail to disclose offences.

Question 22

What Security Clearances are required?

Accepted Answer

To obtain the minimum-security clearance, you must have lived in Australia or have a checkable background for the past 10 years.

Question 23

Do I need to be an Australian citizen or resident?

Accepted Answer

You do need to be an Australian citizen, or an eligible Australian permanent resident.

Non-Australian citizens may be eligible to join the ADF. 
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following criteria:
•	be a New Zealand citizen, a citizen of the United Kingdom, United States of America or Canada
•	be a permanent resident living in Australia or holding a 444 sub-class visa
•	have lived in Australia for at least one year immediately prior to applying to join the ADF and
•	have not served in a foreign military in the two years prior to applying to join the ADF

Overseas applicants with relevant military experience may be eligible to start a new career in the ADF and a new life in Australia through a lateral transfer.

Question 24

Can I wear religious attire / articles with my uniform?

Accepted Answer

Yes, where it does not affect your safety, non-standard ADF uniform items (such as a hijab) are allowed.

Items like these allow members of different faiths the opportunity to meet their religious practices.

This enables all Australians, regardless of their cultural or religious backgrounds, to make a valued contribution to Australia's prosperity and security through service.

Question 25

How can I style my hair?

Accepted Answer

While each service has specific policies on appropriate hairstyles, hair should be neatly groomed.

Men are required to have their hair cut short, back and sides, with no unusual length or bulk on the top of the head, although this rule may not apply to all services.

Women can have long hair, and depending on their service or operating environment, it must be worn up in a braid, plait, bun or ponytail. 
If cut short, the length of hair must not touch the bottom of a buttoned shirt collar.

Radical hairstyles are not accepted. Examples of this include a mohawk, faux mohawk, undercut, fade (medium, high, bald), quiff, pompadour, comb-over, slicked-back, spikey, stepped, layered foils, streaked, bleached, unnatural or extreme colours, combinations of colours or styles

Question 26

Can I have tattoos and/or body piercings?

Accepted Answer

Tattoos are acceptable as long as they're not visible in a passport photo: not on your face or front of neck.

Minimal tattoos for cosmetic purposes are accepted, as are earrings for women (one per ear lobe) in accordance with ADF dress regulations.

Any tattoo or brand considered offensive, intimidating or which does not align with the values of the ADF will not be accepted.

If you have tattoos for cultural or religious reasons, check with your ADF Careers Advisor as exceptions can be made.

Question 27

Can I wear jewellery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although each service has its own dress code. You're generally allowed to wear minimal jewellery when safety is not an issue.

Watches of subtle colour and practical design can be worn when in uniform except under certain safety, operational or ceremonial circumstances.

Necklaces or chains are allowed when in uniform if they are not visible.

Women are allowed to have one earring per ear (in the ear lobe only), and in accordance with ADF dress regulations.

Members may also wear a wedding ring and/or signet ring.

Question 28

What is Aptitude testing?

Accepted Answer

Aptitude testing is designed to find the ideal career for you. 
It's a straightforward, general ability test made up of multiple-choice questions where you'll be asked to select the correct answer.

Aptitude testing will be conducted as part of the Job Opportunities Assessment.

Question 29

Can I join as a single parent?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but it's important to have a support network in place to assist you with any special arrangements required.

Question 30

What qualification and experience do I need?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need to have completed a suitable trade qualification and have relevant experience.

Electronic Systems Technician:
Certificate III in Engineering – Electronics.

Electrical Technician:
Certificate III in Engineering – Electrical, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning.

Vehicle Mechanic:
Certificate III in one of the following: 
   Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology 
   Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
   Mobile Plant Technology

Fitter Armament:
Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical.

Question 31

Will I need a Drivers Licence RAEME roles?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need a driver’s licence for most roles but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Question 32

Electronic Systems Technician - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

Question 33

What is the training breakdown for an Electronic Systems Technician?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need to have completed a Certificate III in Engineering – Electronics.

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training:

Course 1: Army Reserve RAEME Induction Course
Duration: 13 days
Location: At your Reserve unit

You’ll learn about the Army’s structure, processes, values and more.

Course 2: Tactical Communications Network Systems Maintenance Course
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME), Army Logistic Training Centre (ALTC), Vic

This course will train you in the maintenance of Tactical Communications Network (TCN) Systems and ancillary equipment to a Light Grade Repair (LGR) level.

Question 34

Electrical Technician - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

Question 35

What is the initial training breakdown for an Electrical Technician?

Accepted Answer

You'll need to be qualified having completed a Certificate III in Engineering – Electrical, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning.

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: 
Course 1: Army Reserve RAEME Induction Course
Duration: 13 days
Location: At your Reserve unit

You’ll learn about the Army’s structure, processes, values and more.

Course 2: Low to Medium Capacity Power Generation and Distribution Maintenance Course
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME), Army Logistic Training Centre (ALTC), Victoria.

This course gives you the skills and knowledge to perform maintenance on DC, single and 3-phase medium capacity generators.

Question 36

Recovery Mechanic - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

Question 37

What is the initial training breakdown for a Recovery Mechanic?

Accepted Answer

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training:

Course 1: Recovery Technician Course – Module 1
Duration: 16 days
Location: Army Logistics Training Centre, Bandiana, Vic

Course2: Recovery Technician Course – Module 2
Duration: 16 days
Location: Army Logistics Training Centre, Bandiana, Vic

These modules are conducted in conjunction with approximately 12 months On-the-Job Training (OJT). 
On completion of the OJT, you’ll be qualified to operate the Army's Medium and Heavy wheeled Recovery Vehicles.

Question 38

Vehicle Mechanic-Qualified - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

Question 39

What is the initial training breakdown for a Vehicle Mechanic?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need to be a qualified Mechanic having completed a Certificate III in one of: 
Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology 
Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Mobile Plant Technology

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training:

Course 1: Army Reserve RAEME Induction Course
Duration: 13 days
Location: At a Reserve unit near you
 
Course 2: Army Reserve Vehicle Technician Course Part 1
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME), Army Logistic Training Centre (ALTC)

This course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to maintain the in-service light B vehicles up to a Medium Grade Repair (MGR) level.

Question 40

Fitter Armament - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $240 per day.

Question 41

What is the initial training breakdown for a Fitter Armament?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need to be a qualified Fitter having completed a Certificate III in Engineering - Mechanical.

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training:

Course 1: Army Reserve RAEME Induction Course
Duration: 13 days
Location: Your local Reserve unit

This induction covers the Army’s organisation, processes, values and more.
 
Course 2: Small Arms Maintenance Techniques Course
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Army Logistic Training Centre (ALTC), Vic

You’ll learn the skills you need to maintain and fix small arms such as rifles, machine guns and other personnel weapons used by the army.

Question 42

What qualification and experience do I need?

Accepted Answer

Join without qualifications - There are many excellent career options in the ADF that don’t require experience or qualifications.

You’ll receive all the training you need and be paid while you train.

Question 43

Will I need a drivers licence?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need an Australian state or territory full, provisional or probationary C Class licence.

If your licence is suspended or cancelled, you won’t be eligible until that suspension or cancellation has been lifted or has expired.

Question 44

Driver Specialist - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

Question 45

What is the initial training breakdown for a Driver Specialist?

Accepted Answer

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training:

Course: Army Initial Driver Training Course
Duration: 12 days
Location: Army Reserve unit near you

You’ll learn how to:
- Operate, supervise and manage Army transport and logistics vehicles
- Uilise a variety of plant vehicles to support the conduct of tasks
- Conduct training in heavy vehicle driving in both an operational and domestic environment
- Demonstrate effective cargo stowage
- Drive in complex environments by day and night in both operational and humanitarian support functions.

Question 46

What qualification and experience do I need?

Accepted Answer

Join without qualifications - There are many excellent career options in the ADF that don’t require experience or qualifications.

You’ll receive all the training you need and be paid while you train.

On-the-Job Training is managed by local unit through Competency Task Journal over a 36-month period.

Question 47

Will I need a Drivers Licence?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need a driver’s licence for most roles but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Question 48

Cook - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

Question 49

What is the initial training breakdown for a cook?

Accepted Answer

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: 
Army Reserve Chef Training
Course 1: Module 1 Catering Field Training Detachment
Duration: 16 days
Location: Latchford Barrack, Bonegilla

This module teaches you the basic cookery skills, Food Safety – HACCP, Knife Skills, and basic hygiene. All your training will be delivered using field equipment to prepare you for employment as a part-time Cook Assistant.
 
Course 2: Module 2 Army Initial Field Catering Course
Duration: 16 days
Location: Latchford Barrack, Bonegilla

This module teaches you the principles of Army Field Catering Operations. This includes the principles in the construction of obstacles and basic field defences.

Question 50

What qualification and experience do I need?

Accepted Answer

Join without qualifications - There are many excellent career options in the ADF that don’t require experience or qualifications.

You’ll receive all the training you need and be paid while you train.

Question 51

Will I need a driver's licence?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need a driver’s licence for most roles but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.

Question 52

Distribution Operator - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

Question 53

What is the initial training breakdown for a Distribution Operator?

Accepted Answer

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training: 
Course: Distribution Operator Part Time Grade 1
Duration: 16 days
Location: Online training - remote learning

Course: Distribution Operator Part Time Grade 2
Duration: 16 days
Location: Army School of Ordnance, South Bandiana, Albury Wodonga Military Area

Question 54

Command Support Clerk - What is the wage?

Accepted Answer

The pay you receive in the Army Reserve goes straight into your pocket with no deductions for tax.
You'll be paid while you train and your daily rate will increase as you progress.

Whilst completing your Initial Military Training and Initial Employment Training, you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $160 per day. 
Your daily rate once trained you’ll earn a tax-free daily rate of $209 per day.

Question 55

What is the initial training breakdown for a Command Support Clerk?

Accepted Answer

Your part-time Army career will start with a 3 week block at Kapooka, near Wagga Wagga in NSW.

Your training at Kapooka is followed by employment training:

Course: Human Resources Administrator Course Modules 1-3
Duration: 6 weeks (2 weeks per module)
Location: Army Logistics Training Centre, Bandiana

Each module is 2 weeks, with training offered throughout the year meaning you can enrol around your other commitments at a time that suits you.

4th Combat Service Support Bn

Australian Army Reserve unit providing crucial logistics and sustainment support, enabling effective operations.

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