The potential future leaders of the Australian Defence Force today marked the end of their initial training with a parade in Canberra.

The Australian Defence Force Academy’s (ADFA) final year trainee officers celebrated the end of their military training and the achievement of a world-class academic degree at the 2025 graduation parade.

A cohort of 330 graduating trainee officers took to the parade ground for the final time before they are posted to first appointments or service-specific schools for further training. 

The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, reviewed the parade in the presence of proud families and friends.

Chief of Personnel, Lieutenant General Natasha Fox, AO, CSC, said the young leaders were joining the officer ranks of the ADF at an important time.

“As the Australian Defence Force grows and evolves we will need more leaders with the skills, capability and fortitude that is instilled over three years of study and training at ADFA,” Lieutenant General Fox said.

“ADFA graduates join the ADF at a pivotal moment in time, as we deliver on the National Defence Strategy and where the opportunities to work with emerging technologies and capabilities are aplenty.

“Entering the ADF through ADFA is an attractive option for hundreds of Australians who compete for a place at this institution, where they are supported by fantastic instructors, mentors and a close-knit community as they focus on their development into future leaders.

“Congratulations to the graduates of the 2025 ADFA class, and thank you to all of the family members and friends who have supported you and, in doing so, become part of our Defence family.”

Students undertake joint military education and training, which builds foundational knowledge in leadership, ethics, national security and joint warfare. 

Single service training in Navy, Army or Air Force then immerses them in the traditions and operational skills of their chosen service. 

This combination ensures graduates are ready to lead in diverse, complex and high-pressure environments from day one.

Among the 2025 graduate cohort, there are 18 international students from Philippines, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Jordan, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia and Thailand. 

These students will complete their military training in their respective country and use the skills and knowledge learnt at ADFA to enhance regional collaboration, while maintaining a lifelong connection back to the ADF.

More information on ADF Careers is available at www.adfcareers.gov.au 

Media note

Media can access imagery/vision of the 2025 ADFA Graduation Parade at https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/S20253423