Navy, Army and Air Force cadets from across Australia gathered in Canberra for the annual Australian Defence Force Cadets Tri-Service Leadership Summit, an opportunity for cadets to learn skills that can be used in their home units. 

Over several days, 30 cadets engaged in a range of activities focused on ethical leadership, teamwork and decision-making.

These included workshops delivered by the Centre for Defence Leadership and Ethics, team-based problem-solving activities such as the leadership reaction course, and collaborative exercises aimed at enhancing communication skills.

A key aspect of the summit for the cadets was engagement with senior Defence leaders including Chief of Personnel Lieutenant General Natasha Fox and Head of the Reserve and Cadet Support Division Major General Michelle Campbell, who gave cadets insight into leadership experiences and pathways within Defence. 

Major General Campbell said: “The summit provided cadets with meaningful leadership development opportunities, helping them build life skills, confidence and a strong sense of belonging, while enabling tri-service connections and friendships to flourish." 

The program also included reflective and ceremonial components. Cadets participated in the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, undertook a tour of the memorial, and shared their experiences during a formal dinner featuring a keynote address by the 2026 Northern Territory Australian of the Year, Squadron Leader Felix Ho.

 “No matter where their future takes them - within Defence or as leaders in their communities - experiences like the Leadership Summit help inspire and prepare cadets to make a positive difference,” Major General Campbell said. 

To find out more about joining the cadets or becoming an adult staff volunteer, visit ADF Cadets programs.