17 February 2021
Each service has received a boost to their people capability with more than 1000 new personnel being welcomed to the ADF in ceremonies across Australia.
Director General of Defence Force Recruiting Brigadier Duncan Hayward said although the start of the year was busy, it was a highlight for staff.
“These appointment and enlistment ceremonies are the culmination of months of hard work to attract and assess quality applicants against roles that will best meet service needs,” Brigadier Hayward said.
“Our military staff are Defence’s face in the community. They do a fantastic job of sharing with candidates and their families their own experiences in Defence and what they can expect.
It’s a rewarding time to see this effort pay off and watch the candidates at the start of their own careers.
“During the pandemic the recruiting centres were able to meet the challenge of digital delivery and continue our core business – getting the right people, in the right numbers at the right place at the right time.”
At an appointment ceremony in Canberra on January 15, where 34 new officer cadets were welcomed to the Australian Defence Force Academy, the Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell singled out the parents and families proudly watching on.
“Thank you for all that you’ve done and all of the love, care and support you’ve provided to get these fine young people here today. I appreciate that they’re one of your most treasured relationships in this world,” General Campbell said.
“We’ll do everything we can to help them grow, prosper and develop as fine young Australians.”
His message to the new officer cadets was clear.
“I want you to remember that everything you do, everything that you are part of, every step forward that you take is both in thanks of the support your family has provided, and is a reflection of your families – that’s a big responsibility,” he said.
“We are part of an extraordinary defence force in an extraordinary nation. It is important that we sustain the defence force, and you are next generation that will help build it and in time, lead it.
“One of the only things you need to remember from me today to keep you steady on your path ahead is ADFA’s motto - to lead, and to excel.”
All ceremonies were conducted in a COVID-safe environment within guidelines of the government of the state or territory in which they were conducted.
