Nearly 40 representatives from businesses across Australia gained a firsthand insight into the Australian Defence Force Reserves through BossX 2026. 

The immersive three-day activity was conducted across Sydney from July 27 to 29, providing civilian employers of reservists and other industry stakeholders with a unique opportunity to experience the environments, capabilities and training reservists undertake during their ADF service.

Participants had a behind-the-scenes look at some of Defence's key establishments, including Victoria Barracks Sydney, RAAF Base Richmond, Holsworthy Barracks, Garden Island and HMAS Penguin.

Throughout the activity, employers were exposed to Defence capabilities spanning the five domains: air, cyber, land, maritime and space. 

Participants toured operational facilities, received briefings from Defence leaders, observed demonstrations and engaged directly with ADF personnel.

The program helped participants gain a deeper understanding of the critical role reservists play as part of Defence's integrated force and demonstrated how reservists contribute specialist skills, experience and expertise across the full breadth of Defence operations.

A key theme of BossX 2026 was the unique value reservists bring to Defence through their civilian careers. 

Presentations and engagements throughout the activity highlighted how reservists apply contemporary professional expertise from industries such as technology, health, engineering and the commercial space sector to enhance Defence capability. 

'By supporting reservists, civilian employers not only enable Defence capability but also benefit from skilled employees who return to the workplace with enhanced leadership, teamwork and adaptability.'

Wing Commander Stuart Waldon from ADF Cyber Command spoke to participants about how Defence’s ties to industry and employers are important in developing strong cyber capabilities.

“ADF reservists are a valuable part of Defence’s cyber workforce because they can supplement enduring capability with specialist skills, surge capacity and contemporary experience,” Wing Commander Waldon said.

“Partnerships with industry strengthen this model by supporting collaboration, knowledge sharing and a broader national approach to cyber defence.” 

BossX is one of ADF Reserves and Employer Support’s flagship engagement activities, providing valuable insight into the mutually beneficial relationship between Defence and industry, and demonstrating how reserve service strengthens both the ADF and Australia's workforce.

Deputy Head of the Reserve and Cadet Support Division Commodore Grant O’Loughlan concluded the activity with a keynote address thanking civilian employers of reservists for their contributions to enabling a capable and ready reserve force. 

“Defence is grateful for their commitment and remains focused on strengthening partnerships with businesses that enable their employees to serve,” Commodore O’Loughlan said.

“By supporting reservists, civilian employers not only enable Defence capability but also benefit from skilled employees who return to the workplace with enhanced leadership, teamwork and adaptability.”

To learn more about the benefits and support available for hiring reservists, visit ADF Reserves and Employer Support.