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ADF Enlisted Pathway: Your General Entry Guide

If your goal is to pursue a position as a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO), such as a fabricator, fitter or mechanic, your entry into the defence force will be through the Enlisted pathway stream.

General Entry Stream Recruitment Process for Defence Jobs

The ADF enlisted pathway is the most common route for candidates seeking a career in the Australian Defence Force. Also known as the General Entry stream, this ADF recruitment pathway is designed for applicants who want to enter a specific trade, technical role or operational position without undertaking officer training.

If you’re wondering how to join ADF, understanding the steps involved in the ADF enlistment process can help you prepare effectively and improve your chances of success.

The enlisted pathway generally includes:

  • Submitting an online application
  • Completing the Job Opportunities Assessment (JOA)
  • Attending the ADF YOU Session
  • Participating in an Assessment Session
  • Completing any required medical or fitness assessments
  • Receiving your enlistment offer and commencing training

The diagram below outlines each stage of the process and highlights where aptitude and interview preparation can help you succeed. Text highlighted in blue relates to our aptitude preparation resources, while text in green identifies interview support available during the recruitment process.

ADF Non-Commissioned Officer Recruitment Process

The ADF enlistment process for General Entry roles differs from the officer stream in several important ways. Unlike officer candidates, enlisted applicants typically do not complete an Officer Selection Board (OSB). Instead, the focus is on demonstrating your suitability for your chosen role through aptitude testing, interviews and meeting all ADF entry requirements.

Depending on your preferred role, additional assessments may be required, including medical evaluations, security checks, and role-specific testing. If you’re considering a leadership role or specialist position, explore our Officer Pathway guide to understand the differences between enlisted and officer entry.

The ADF joining process can be competitive, and preparation is essential. Defence recruiters are looking for candidates who are motivated, well-informed, and committed to serving. Taking the time to understand the requirements, prepare for assessments, and research your preferred role can significantly improve your chances of success.

Understanding the ADF Career Pathway

The enlisted pathway offers access to a wide range of careers across the Navy, Army, and Air Force. Whether you’re interested in engineering, aviation support, logistics, communications, healthcare, or combat roles, there are opportunities to build valuable skills and progress throughout your career.

Your chosen role will influence your training requirements, career progression, and long-term opportunities within the Australian Defence Force. Before applying, review the ADF Application Process and ensure you meet the relevant ADF entry requirements for your preferred role.

Navy

  • Type A roles
  • Boatswains Mate
  • Chef
  • Chef Submariner
  • Dental Assistant
  • Hospitality Services Assistant
  • Hospitality Services Assistant Submariner
  • Medic
  • Medical Submariner
  • Musician
  • Navy Gap Year
  • Warehouse Storeperson Submariner
  • Warehouse Storeperson
  • Type B roles
  • Sonar Operator (Sub)
  • Aircraft Technician
  • Aviation Ground Crew
  • Avionics Technician
  • CIS Submariner
  • Clearance Diver
  • Weapons and Sensor Operator
  • Mine Walfare Operator
  • Communication & Information Systems
  • Operator
  • Cryptologic Networks
  • Cryptologic Systems
  • Electronic Spectrum Systems Operator
  • Electronic Spectrum Systems Sub
  • Electronics Technician
  • Electronics Technician Submariner
  • Hydrographics Surveyor
  • Marine Technician
  • Marine Technician Submariner
  • Military Police
  • Personnel Administrations Specialist
  • Type D roles
  • Cryptologic Linguist

Army

  • Type A roles
  • Driver 274
  • Air Dispatcher 099
  • Armoured Vehicle Crew 060
  • Armoured Vehicle Crew 062 - Res
  • Army Combat GY
  • Army Support GY
  • Artillery Light Gunner 161 - Res
  • Artillery Operator 162
  • Aviation Groundcrew 164
  • Cargo Operator 171
  • Chef 084
  • Combat Engineer 096
  • Combat Support Operator 305 (RFSU Only)
  • Dental Assistant 029
  • Warehouse Coordinator 104
  • Emergency Responder 141
  • Environmental Health Assistant 322
  • Fuel Specialist 269
  • Infantry Soldier 343
  • Marine Specialist 218
  • Medic 031
  • Medic 291 - Res
  • Musician 240
  • Parachute Rigger 345
  • Paramedic 169
  • Recruit - Open Employment Category
  • Regional Force Soldier 304 (RFSU Only)
  • Type B roles
  • Administration Assistant 150
  • Communication Systems Operator 662
  • Information Systems Tech 661
  • Aircraft Fabricator 153
  • Aircraft Technician 411
  • Ammunition Supplier 401
  • Artillery Command Systems Operator 254
  • Artillery - Air Defender 237
  • Avionics Technician 412
  • Carpenter 072
  • Commando 079
  • Cyber Analyst 664
  • Drone Operator 250
  • Electrical Technician 418
  • Electrician 125
  • Electronic Systems Technician 421
  • Electronic Warfare 663
  • Fitter Armament 146
  • Geospatial Intelligence Analyst 423
  • Intelligence Analyst 003
  • Metalsmith 235
  • Mission Support Groundcrew 165
  • Movements Coordinator 035
  • Military Police 315
  • Telecommunications Technician 665
  • Plumber 314
  • Recovery Mechanic 226
  • Vehicle Mechanic 229
  • Type D roles
  • Aircraft Life Support Filter 154
  • Artillery Observer 255

Air Force

  • Type A roles
  • Air Force Security
  • Airbase Protection and Security
  • Airfield Defence Guard
  • Cook
  • Dental Assistant
  • Fire Fighter
  • Medic
  • Musician
  • Photographer
  • Physical Training Instructor
  • Plant Operator
  • Type B roles
  • Air Surveillance Operator
  • Aircraft Safety Equipment Maintainer
  • Airborne Electronics Analyst
  • Aircraft Armament Technician
  • Aircraft Fabricator
  • Aircraft Technician
  • Aviation Support Tech Gap Year
  • Avionics Technician
  • Cabin Crew
  • Carpenter
  • Communication Electronic Technician
  • Cyberspace Warfare Analyst
  • Electrician
  • Fitter and Turner
  • Geospatial Intelligence Analyst
  • Ground Crew
  • Human Resources Assistant
  • Intelligence Analysts (Signals)
  • Loadmaster
  • Military Police
  • Motor Mechanic
  • Network Technician
  • Plumber
  • Warehouse Storeperson
  • Type D roles
  • Intelligence Analysts (Operations)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I join the ADF through the enlisted pathway?

To join the ADF through the enlisted pathway, you need to submit an online application, complete aptitude testing, attend a YOU Session, participate in an Assessment Session, and meet all medical and fitness requirements.

What is the difference between the enlisted and officer pathways?

The enlisted pathway focuses on technical, trade, and operational roles, while the officer pathway prepares candidates for leadership and management positions.

How long does the ADF enlistment process take?

The ADF enlistment process can take several months depending on your chosen role, assessment availability, and the completion of medical or security checks.

What are the entry requirements for the ADF enlisted pathway?

ADF entry requirements vary by role but generally include meeting citizenship, age, education, medical, and fitness criteria.

Do enlisted applicants complete an Officer Selection Board?

No. The Officer Selection Board is only required for officer candidates and is not part of the General Entry recruitment process.

Check More FAQs
Soldiers in uniform training on laptops.

Application Process

Submitting your application to the ADF involves six primary steps, with certain pathways requiring additional steps.

Read More
Group of recruits in formal attire taking an oath at a graduation ceremony.

Officer Pathway

If you plan to join ADFA or a Type C, D or E role, you fall under the Officer entry category.

Read More
Four tactical operators in black gear standing below a helicopter.

Aviation/Pilot

The recruitment process for aspiring Pilots in Defence mirrors that of becoming an Officer, with the exception that Pilot candidates undergo additional aptitude testing.

Read More
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