Defence invests in its people and provides structured career development, leadership opportunities and the chance to contribute to work that truly matters.

Defence provides opportunities to build a career across different professions, disciplines and areas of expertise, helping develop new skills and broaden experience.

Through the Defence Learning Academy, employees can access learning, development and career opportunities that support professional growth, leadership development and lifelong learning.

Whether starting a career or looking to build specialist expertise, Defence offers a wide range of opportunities to develop skills and knowledge, including:

• Financial assistance for approved tertiary study through the Studybank education assistance program.
• Study leave for approved courses and qualifications.
• Professional education programs through the Australian War College for Australian Public Service employees.
• Fully funded postgraduate study opportunities through the University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy.
• Development opportunities through the National Security College at the Australian National University.
• Fully funded PhD scholarship opportunities, including programs for First Nations employees.
• The Secretary of Defence Fellowship, which supports research aligned to Defence's strategic priorities.
• Leadership development programs delivered in partnership with leading education providers.
• Online learning resources to build professional and technical skills.
• Funding for relevant professional memberships.
• Mentoring and coaching opportunities.
• Secondments across Defence, other Australian Government agencies and Defence industry partners.