28 August 2025
The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) annual open day this month was an opportunity for prospective trainee officers, families, friends and the public to learn more about ADFA and career opportunities across the ADF.
An estimated 20,000 people experienced the largest ADFA open day yet, with more than 85 displays and interactive exhibits.
Visitors were able to learn about life at ADFA including through information sessions, experience a fast-jet simulator and a virtual-reality Collins-Class submarine tour, inspect specialised clearance diving equipment and armoured military vehicles, and check out some of Defence’s newest capabilities.
Highlights of this year included land-based offensive and defensive fires platforms including the high mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS), drone and robotics technology, and interactive displays across Defence’s newest domains of space and cyber.
Military skills demonstrations kept visitors engaged, aircraft flyovers were spectacular and the ADFA Band, Pipes and Drums kept everyone entertained with musical interludes.
Third-year Officer Cadet Tom Delaney said ADFA was unique in offering the combination of military training and university study, with all three services represented and a broad range of university degrees available through UNSW.
“ADFA open day is important for prospective trainee officers because it provides a rounded view of what ADFA is all about and it’s all in one place and on one day of the year,” Officer Cadet Delaney said.
“The event is a one-stop shop for people interested in joining ADFA and importantly there are trainee officers available throughout the campus to engage with to talk about their perspective on life at ADFA, including the extra-curricular clubs and activities available.”
'The Open Day provides the opportunity to showcase ADFA and the many career opportunities available.'
Commandant ADFA Brigadier Troy Francis reinforced the importance of the event.
“ADFA open day introduces prospective midshipmen and officer cadets to the world-class education and military training available at the Australian Defence Force Academy,” Brigadier Francis said.
“The open day provides the opportunity to showcase ADFA and the many career opportunities available throughout the broader Defence Force across the five domains of maritime, land, air, space and cyber.
“It’s also a great opportunity for the public to gain unique access and insights into the Australian Defence Force. I have been particularly impressed with the number of people who travelled inter-state or from overseas to attend the ADFA open day.
“Planning and executing an event of this scale takes significant effort and I thank everyone involved for their tireless work in bringing this together to make the ADFA open day such a successful event for the ADF.”
As the day came to a close, visitors, staff, midshipmen and officer cadets were privileged to observe a Beating the Retreat Ceremony on the Parade Ground, performed by Australia’s Federation Guard to recognise 25 years since their formation.
With bands playing, flags flying and guns firing, it was a fitting celebration of the milestone anniversary and successful end to the 2025 open day.
For those who could not attend, information sessions and open day content is available on the virtual open day website.
To learn more about ADFA and a career in ADF, visit adfaopenday.adfcareers.gov.au/adfa-on-demand
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