By AIDAN KNIGHT
THE Australian Defence Force’s Mobile ADF Careers Centre (MACC) rolled into Traralgon as part of a two-week recruitment tour across Gippsland, offering locals a chance to explore military careers without travelling to Melbourne.
The bright yellow careers bus set up outside Traralgon RSL on Grey Street from 9am to 5pm, where ADF career specialists spoke with walk-ins and online bookings about opportunities across the Navy, Army and Air Force.
Representatives said interest was steady throughout the day, with many people seeking information on trade roles, technical pathways and subsidised training programs.
Career specialists told the Express that the tour aims to break down barriers for regional recruits by bringing information sessions directly into local communities.
Navy Lieutenant Jonty Paterson said the ADF has too many career possibilities to list, stating, “We want to break down barriers for regional communities by taking information directly to them. There are over 300 different job positions within the Australian Defence Force, from chefs to engineers, doctors to administration.”
Lt Paterson described how his own journey started after university, leading to a rewarding Navy engineering career.
“I completed an engineering degree and, with no luck on the job market, applied to the ADF. The process took about seven months, but it opened doors to a career that matches my skills and interests – including leadership, technical work, and a sense of purpose,” he said.
The Australian Defence Force offers several pathways for students to combine higher education with military service, providing both financial support and practical experience.
One prominent option is the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra, where students undertake undergraduate degrees through a partnership with UNSW.
While studying at ADFA, students are considered full members of the ADF, which means the Defence Force covers tuition fees and provides a salary throughout the duration of their studies.
In addition to academic learning, students participate in military training and leadership development, setting them up for rewarding careers upon graduation.
Alternatively, the ADF Defence Undergraduate Scheme allows students to study at the university of their choice while being sponsored by the ADF. This sponsorship not only pays for university tuition but also provides students with a wage while they complete their degree.
As shared by LT Paterson, this opportunity isn’t limited to just engineering or technical fields, it also applies to many other roles, including health, trades, and administrative careers. Students accepted into the scheme benefit from financial stability, practical placement opportunities, and a guaranteed job upon completing their studies and military requirements. Whether through ADFA or university sponsorship, these programs are designed to remove financial barriers to education, support students with a steady income, and ensure graduates are prepared for diverse and meaningful careers within the Defence Force.
Representatives reported a steady stream of interest throughout the day. Many visitors were keen to hear about apprenticeships, trade roles, engineering careers and technical pathways, as well as subsidised training and sponsorship programs. Specialists also reassured visitors and their families about the thorough screening that recruits undergo, including interviews, medical and psychological assessments, and the emphasis on physical fitness and personal development.
“Joining the Australian Defence Force is a commitment, but it’s also a chance to grow professionally and personally, and to serve something bigger than yourself,” they added.
