ADF leaders and personnel gathered at the Australian Defence College (ADC) in Canberra on June 23, to examine how character underpins resilience across the ADF in the face of adversity.

The conference, 'Resilience in Adversity: The Role of Character in the Profession of Arms', brought together subject matter experts and military professionals to explore how values, behaviours and leadership shape both individual readiness and institutional strength. 

Throughout the forum, panels of academics and ADF leaders unpacked how character can be understood in different ways, including as something forged through experience, tested under pressure and demonstrated through action. 

These perspectives prompted deeper consideration of how character influences the way resilience is built in military personnel, particularly during periods of personal or professional challenge. 

A key focus of the event was how the ADF develops character across a member’s career – from initial training through to transition out of service. Participants examined how professional military education, leadership and lived experience contribute to shaping character and examining current approaches.

ADC Commander Major General Martin White said the event delivered outstanding insights and reinforced the importance of shared learning.

“Character is what anchors our people when systems, plans or assumptions are tested. By investing in it deliberately, we strengthen not just individual resilience, but the collective effectiveness of the force,” Major General White said. 

“This has been an exceptionally valuable forum, with each panellist offering thoughtful and practical insights that will help strengthen how we understand and develop character across the ADF.”