Every aviator and officer in the Air Force begins their journey with a leader who shapes their first experience of service, instils Air Force values and establishes the foundations for a successful career.

At the forefront of that responsibility are military skills instructors and directing staff at 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) and Officers' Training School (OTS). These selected personnel are charged with transforming civilians into Air Force members and future leaders.

The recent approval of the Recruit Instructor Allowance by the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal is a significant recognition of the critical role performed by military skills instructors and directing staff at 1RTU and OTS. Valued at approximately $20,050 per annum, the allowance acknowledges the responsibility, leadership and sustained commitment associated with developing the next generation of Air Force aviators and officers.

Commander Air Force Training Group Air Commodore Brett Williams said the introduction of the allowance represented an important recognition of the instructors responsible for developing Air Force's future workforce.

"Every Air Force career starts with an instructor who shapes attitudes, behaviours and standards from day one. The introduction of the Recruit Instructor Allowance is an important recognition of the responsibility our military skills instructors and directing staff at 1RTU and OTS carry every day," Air Commodore Williams said.

By bringing Air Force instructor remuneration into alignment with Army and Navy arrangements, the allowance provides enduring recognition of the unique contribution made by military skills instructors and directing staff. 

'There are very few roles where you can directly shape the character, confidence and professional foundations of future aviators and officers, while continuing to develop your own leadership skills.'

The allowance also enhances the appeal of these postings, acknowledging them as some of the most influential and rewarding appointments in Air Force. 

Personnel seeking to broaden their leadership experience, strengthen their coaching and mentoring skills, and make a lasting contribution to the development of future Air Force capability are strongly encouraged to consider these opportunities. 

“For many recruits and trainees, their instructors provide the first example of what service in Air Force looks like. They are mentors, coaches and leaders who guide individuals through some of the most challenging and transformative periods of their lives,” Air Commodore Williams said.

From teaching military skills and professional standards to building resilience, teamwork and confidence, instructors help shape the attitudes and behaviours that members carry throughout their careers. 

"The National Defence Strategy highlights the importance of building and sustaining a capable, skilled and resilient workforce. Our instructors are central to that mission because they develop the people who will deliver Air Force capability for decades to come,” Air Commodore Williams said.

Air Force military skills instructor and directing staff positions are occupied by high-performing aviators and officers who have demonstrated the leadership, credibility and professional excellence required to influence future generations.

'Every Air Force career starts with an instructor who shapes attitudes, behaviours and standards from day one.'

Selection for an instructor posting reflects the confidence Air Force places in its people to represent the service and shape its future workforce.

Former OTS Warrant Officer and now Air Force Training Group Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer Brian Holdcroft, said instructor postings offer some of the most rewarding experiences in an Air Force career.

"Anyone who has served as an instructor understands the commitment these roles demand," Warrant Officer Holdcroft said.

"There are very few roles where you can directly shape the character, confidence and professional foundations of future aviators and officers, while continuing to develop your own leadership skills. You learn how to lead diverse groups of people, communicate effectively, coach individuals through challenges and build high-performing teams. Those skills are invaluable in any future posting."

As Air Force continues to prepare for an increasingly complex strategic environment, the instructors who shape its newest members remain one of its most important investments, ensuring the next generation is ready to serve, lead and succeed from day one.