how to become an airman or airwoman in four easy steps.

28 Pages·2017·2.7 MB·English

HOW TO BECOME AN
AIRMAN OR AIRWOMAN
IN FOUR EASY STEPS.
1
There are around 30 different general and qualified entry jobs
in the Air Force. Once you have decided which ones interest
you, spend the rest of your time browsing through this guide
to see if life in the Air Force suits you.
STEP ONE. DECIDE WHAT JOB YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO.
STEP TWO. SEE IF LIFE IN THE AIR FORCE IS FOR YOU. P13
STEP THREE. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU APPLY? P23
STEP FOUR. WHAT ELSE DO YOU NEED TO KNOW? P25
STEP ONE.
DECIDE WHAT JOB YOU
WOULD LIKE TO DO.
11 2
“ YOU CAN BE DOING ANYTHING FROM PROCUREMENTS,
TO STOCK CONTROL, AIR MOVEMENTS OR IN A SQUADRON
GETTING SPARES FOR AIRCRAFT.”
THE AIR FORCE GENERAL ENTRY (GE) (GE Trade) QUALIFIED ENTRY (QE) AIR FORCE RESERVE (AR)
So read through our descriptions of the jobs If you have successfully completed Year 10 and Qualified Entry requires you to have specific Air Force Reservists are the part-time component A specialist group within the Air Force
TRAINS MORE THAN
available, and see if life as an airman or airwoman meet other Air Force requirements, you are eligible trade qualifications. You’ll need to provide of the Air Force. The Air Force Reserve allows Reserve is the Ground Defence Reserve Group
in the Air Force interests you. You’ll find that each to become a General Entry airman or airwoman. proof of your trade qualification and meet our you to get involved in a strong team atmosphere; (GRDefRG). This group contains Reserve
JUST PILOTS.
job has abbreviations following its description, However, as certain jobs require particular eligibility requirements. Again, we’ll get you work with high-tech equipment; build upon your Ground Defence Officers and Airfield Defence
relating to the particular method of entry. They education and medical standards, it is essential to undertake a short period of recruit training existing personal and professional skills, as well as Guards who form a highly skilled, close-knit
are General Entry (GE), General Entry Trade (GE you talk to a Careers Coach first. You may choose prior to the commencement of your have fun and improve your fitness while you do it. team capable of defending the Air Force’s
Despite what you may think, the Air Force isn’t
Trade) and Qualified Entry (QE). Obviously the to begin an Air Force trade traineeship. They Air Force job. The Air Force Reserve trains and works right bases, aircraft, installations and personnel.
just about aircraft. It requires a huge number
choice of entry is dependent upon a number of provide the best trade qualifications possible and alongside the permanent Air Force and in most Primarily the personnel in this group specialise
of skilled personnel such as Medics, Air Force
factors such as your education, qualifications and they are highly recognised and valued in cases, your job will mirror that of the permanent in ground defence and the instruction of ground
Security, Aircraft Technicians, Suppliers, Air
other Air Force requirements. There also exists civilian industries. Air Force. defence related skills. Due to the requirement
Intelligence Analysts and Mechanics to keep it
the opportunity to work part-time as an Air Force After all, where else could you be working on a There is normally a work arrangement to fit with for GRDefRG members to be able to deploy at
on the move. That’s where you come in. If you’re
reservist. Not only will you enjoy the benefits multi-million dollar aircraft from the moment you your life and because it’s locally based, you can a short notice, you’ll undergo 11 months of full-
already trade qualified or have completed Year 10,
enjoyed by those serving full-time, but you’ll complete your training? You’ll undertake a period experience Air Force life without working far time training and then be required to undertake
then the Air Force opens up an enormous number
further your chosen career while enjoying a tax- of recruit training followed by initial employment from home. a minimum period of days a year part-time
of career options for you, many of which you
free salary. So take some time to study the various training and will then be ready to begin work in Entry into the Air Force Reserve is dependent service with tax-free pay. To be part of the
probably never knew existed.
entry options to see which is appropriate to you. your chosen field. upon vacancies at the time, but includes jobs such GRDefRG, you’ll need to live within a three hour
as administration, logistics and some technical drive of an Air Force Base that has a Reserve
based jobs. Selection standards are the same as ADG Rifle Flight. At present there are no
those joining the permanent Air Force. Reserve Rifle Flights in the Northern Territory.

33 4
“ THE FACILITIES ARE GREAT,
V ERY MODERN, THERE’S
N OTHING WE GO WITHOUT.”
BUSINESS AND ADMINISTRATION LOGISTICS, HOSPITALITY AND SUPPORT AIRCREW HEALTH AND SCIENCE
HUMAN RESOURCES ASSISTANT WAREHOUSE STOREPERSON COOK GROUND CREW CABIN CREW (ATTENDANT) AIRBORNE ELECTRONICS ANALYST LOADMASTER DENTAL ASSISTANT
The Air Force may operate highly advanced As a Warehouse Storeperson in the Air Force you The Air Force is a great place to learn your trade A Ground Crew career will see you responsible As a Cabin Crew (Attendant) you’ll be responsible As an Airborne Electronics Analyst (AEA), you’ll Getting equipment, supplies, fuel, vehicles and A Dental Assistant in the Air Force is very
aircraft, but it’s the quality of our people that have the opportunity to work in a variety of jobs as a Cook. You’ll be involved in all aspects of for providing airfield services to support Air Force for the loading and unloading of passengers, keep Australian waters safe by detecting and people to the right place when it’s needed is similar to one outside of the Defence Force.
gives us the edge. In this important clerical role that will rotate as your career progresses. You could food production including preparation, cookery, activities, operations and exercises. You’ll be crew and cargo on Air Force VIP jets. Apart from analysing contacts both above and below the critical to Australian Defence Force operations. You’ll be responsible for chair-side assistance
you’ll work in exciting and varied environments be in charge of processing base demands for general presentation, and serving of the finished product. involved with a wide range of duties that includes providing in-flight food and beverages, you’ll also water as you skim across the ocean in a AP-3C In this exciting and demanding job you’ll be to the Dental Officer in addition to patient
supporting personnel throughout the Air Force. stores and all types of aircraft spares. Whereas in a What’s more, you’ll also get to apply your skills to both air Ground Crew and road Ground Crew. be trained in fire fighting, combat survival and Orion Maritime Patrol Aircraft. On board, you’ll responsible for the receipt, loading, weight management. You’ll assist in the treatment
You could be employed in human resources, purchasing role you are involved in electronic in-flight kitchens, field cookery and instructional Air Ground Crew involves the loading, unloading safety procedures. You could even find yourself be working with some of the most sophisticated distribution, monitoring and safe delivery of these of patients, sterilising instruments, preparation
workforce structure planning (which ensures purchasing, raising purchase orders, processing posts. (GE/QE), (AR). and refuelling of aircraft; air terminal operations looking after Australian and foreign heads of state, electronics surveillance equipment in the world essential assets by runway (airland) and parachute of dental materials, and the processing and
optimum capability for each operation), financial claims or maintaining funds control ledgers, which involves the movement of passengers and Royalty and guests of the Australian government, to ensure the success of your mission and the (airdrop); and you’ll also manage and coordinate mounting of dental radiographs. Administrative
management, communications, or operations supply databases and accounts. (QE), (AR). TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll head to cargo on Air Force or visiting aircraft; and the and troops on deployment. (GE). safety of the crew. (GE). air to air refuelling. In the air and on the ground tasks include scheduling appointments,
liaison. (GE), (AR). operation of a wide range of vehicles to support your leadership and decision-making skills will be maintaining clinical dental records and
the ADF School of Catering at HMAS Cerberus
TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo a south of Melbourne, for the ADF Initial Cooks these activities. Road Ground Crew involve TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo tested daily; and you’ll need the mental agility to procuring and accounting for dental equipment
TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo Warehouse Storeperson Initial Employment Training Course. You’ll learn both the theory and activities such as vehicle despatch, vehicle fleet a Combat Survival Course. You will also complete a Combat Survival Course. You will also complete calculate payload configurations in challenging and stores. (GE).
a Basic Human Resources Assistant Course where Course to teach you maintenance of inventory records; practice of all aspects of kitchen activities, management and vehicle accident management. the Aviation Medicine Initial Course to learn about the Aviation Medicine Initial Course to learn about environments, when every second counts.
TRAINING:
you’ll learn about personnel service entitlements, identification and cataloguing of equipment; storage, including safety and hygiene, food preparation (GE), (AR). human physiology in the aviation environment. human physiology in the aviation environment. After recruit training, you’ll undergo
TRAINING:
orders, publications, correspondence and files, receipt, despatch and packaging of goods; computerised and cooking, decoration and presentation, TRAINING: You’ll then take part in an Airman Aircrew Initial Following that, you’ll do your AEA Specialist Course After recruit training you’ll undertake a Dental Assistant Course to teach you about
the forms of service correspondence writing, and stock control; procurement competencies; and the knife handling, and field kitchen set-up. On After recruit training, you’ll undergo Course to be taught a variety of aviation principles before joining an operational squadron. Your first a series of aviation-related courses and will learn biological sciences, operation procedures,
general service matters in addition to receiving an role of supply within the Air Force. successful completion of this 19-week course a Ground Crew Initial Employment Training such as air traffic control, meteorology and first rank for this job after training is Sergeant. the skills required for survival, evasion, resist and laboratory procedures, occupational health,
introduction to computer database management. you will be awarded a Certificate III in Hospitality Course which is conducted in two phases. Phase aid. The Cabin Crew Basic Course teaches students escape. Training specific to the Loadmaster role and dental administration. You then complete
one requires you to gain various vehicle driving wine education, grooming and deportment, crew follows, and includes the receipt and packing of a dental log book to attain civil registration.
(Commercial Cookery).
licences including four-wheel drive, truck, bus and attendant duties, meal service and basic food goods, load preparation, weight distribution, load
forklift training. Phase two trains you in the basic handling. The Advanced Course teaches aircraft securing, vehicle marshalling and customs; along
air Ground Crew functionality including dangerous safety equipment, emergency procedures, pre-, with ground and air-based aircraft training.
goods and explosive ordnance handling. in- and post-flight checks and procedures, and
5 aircraft documentation. 6
“ THERE’S A HUGE VARIETY OF DIFFERENT
JOBS YOU CAN BE INVOLVED IN.”
TRADES AND TRAINEESHIPS
MEDIC AIRCRAFT SAFETY EQUIPMENT MAINTAINER AIRCRAFT SPRAY PAINTER AIRCRAFT FABRICATOR AIRCRAFT ARMAMENT TECHNICIAN AVIONICS TECHNICIAN CARPENTER ELECTRICIAN
If you have an interest in a medical career, The safety and survival of aircrew colleagues is of If spray painting cars is what you enjoy most, How would you like a career stripping down Aircraft Armament Technicians play a critical As an Avionics Technician you’ll be looking after Carpenters provide the Air Force with the As an Electrician, you’ll be part of the
a job as a Medic might just be what you’re looking paramount importance to an Aircraft Safety Equipment what about trying your hand at spray painting a fighter jets? As an Aircraft Fabricator, that’s just role in Australia’s defence. You’ll be responsible a wide range of systems on board fighter, strike, construction capability required to enable the Airfield Engineering Organisation. You will
for. You’ll be employed in Air Force hospitals and Maintainer. You’ll be responsible for providing fighter jet? As an Aircraft Spray Painter, you’ll what you’ll be doing – duties include inspection, for installing and maintaining aircraft components maritime, and transport aircraft. You’ll be involved Air Force to remain operational. You’ll design, install, maintain and repair power and lighting
Unit Health facilities to assist with nursing care to serviceable aircraft mounted and aircrew mounted be responsible for the application of protective maintenance, servicing, repair and fault diagnosis, associated with sophisticated weaponry including in the inspection, maintenance and servicing of construct, maintain and repair buildings and systems and other electrical plant and equipment
members of the Australian Defence Force. You aircraft safety equipment and safety and survival paint coatings to Air Force aircraft. Duties will manufacture, assembly, removal and installation gun systems, bombs and a range of missiles on electronic components and systems and, where temporary structures. Construction tasks in industrial and domestic installations, including
may also find yourself assisting in aeromedical equipment to meet operational requirements. This involve painting the metallic and composite of aircraft structures and associated equipment. a wide variety of Air Force aircraft. It’s an exciting necessary, the soldering of miniature electronic may include site planning, excavations, timber runway lighting on Air Force bases or Defence
evacuations and working as part of operational could be anything from helmets and oxygen masks to surfaces of aircraft, corrosion control, preparation (GE Trade). career that will see you performing your role components. You’ll also be responsible for oxygen constructions, steel constructions, concreting, establishments. You could also manage large
deployments overseas. (GE). parachutes and life rafts, as well as survival kits, the and use of aircraft support equipment as well as both out on the flightline and in the workshop. and weapons systems and associated explosive interior lining, glazing, and assisting allied trades. electrical systems in the field, where generators
testing of emergency locator beacons, and the updating identifying and ordering aircraft paint equipment TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo (GE Trade). ordnance. (GE Trade). (QE), (AR). need to be installed and managed along with
TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo and maintenance of technical records. (GE Trade). and materials, and amending and maintaining an Aircraft Fabricator Course designed to make you deployable airfield and runway lighting. (QE), (AR).
a Basic Medic Course to teach you basic nursing technical publications. (QE). proficient in the engineering skills required for all TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll undergo TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo TRAINING: After recruit training, a wide variety of
TRAINING: TRAINING:
skills, first aid, anatomy and physiology, and how to After recruit training, you’ll undergo a levels of aircraft structural maintenance and repair. a Technician Course for Aircraft Armament an Avionic Technician Course to give you the initial general service and employment specific training After recruit training you’ll head to
TRAINING:
work under the supervision of ADF Nursing Officers. Fitter Course – Aircraft Safety Equipment Maintainer After recruit training, you’ll be posted The course covers development and manufacture Technicians. The course provides instruction in generic trade training for Avionics Technicians who may be undertaken. You may then be trained in the RAAF Security and Fire School at RAAF Base
to teach you all of the basic skills required to install and to an Air Force Base or Defence establishment for of general sheet metal work items; the development, generic trade hand skills, component removal and are employed at the Fitter (Grade 1) skill level upon general construction and supervisory courses. Amberley, near Brisbane, where you’ll take basic
remove aircraft safety equipment used by aircrew or fitted on-the-job training before you qualify as an Aircraft manufacture and repair of aircraft structural items; installation; along with detailed systems theory of graduation. The course trains you in generic trade airfield engineering construction courses, and
to aircraft, information relating to work health and safety Spray Painter. and plumbing and ducting. operation and diagnostics. Training is also provided hand skills, avionics systems component removal learn about construction safety and skid-steer and
issues, and technical administration procedures relevant in explosive ordnance, and aircraft handling and and installation, and detailed avionics systems backhoe loader operations. You may also be offered
to your duties. servicing tasks. theory. Training is also provided in aircraft handling specialist engineering courses in areas such as
and servicing tasks. scaffolding, trenching and explosive power tools.
7 8
“ IF YOU WANT THE OPPORTUNITY TO ADVANCE
W ITHIN YOUR CAREER, IT’S THERE FOR THE TAKING”.
COMBAT AND SECURITY
FITTER & TURNER MOTOR MECHANIC HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR PLUMBER AIRBASE PROTECTION AND SECURITY AIRFIELD DEFENCE GUARD AIR FORCE SECURITY (AFSEC) FIRE FIGHTER
(RESERVE)
You are primarily responsible for the maintenance, Like getting your hands dirty under the bonnet Heavy Equipment Operators with the Air Force provide As an Air Force Plumber, you’ll be installing, As an Airfield Defence Guard, you form the basis As a member of Air Force Security (AFSEC), you’ll As an Air Force Fire Fighter, you’ll be employed
repair, modification, and refurbishment of aircraft of a car? As an Air Force Motor Mechanic you’ll civil/earthwork construction support. In this role, maintaining and repairing installed water As part of the Airbase Protection and Security of the Air Force’s ground combat force, protecting find yourself apprehending offenders and applying in the usual duties normally associated with fire
arrestor systems, ground support equipment, and be applying your skills to everything from cars, you’ll be required to operate various heavy earth reticulation and treatment systems, sanitary, (Reserve) mustering you augment Permanent Air base assets, infrastructure and personnel against protective security measures. You may also get fighting, plus those involved with specialist airfield
small arms weapons. A Fitter by trade, you’ll be trucks, forklifts and airport specialist vehicles moving equipment such as dozers, excavators, dump drainage, sewerage, gas systems and undertaking Force security forces during times of increased attack from enemy forces. You’ll also get involved involved with security breaches, responding fire and rescue services and the training of base
manufacturing and modifying tools, jigs, dies, through to ground radar mechanical installations, trucks and more. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, other general plumbing tasks. In deployed and security and Ground Defence operations. in instructional duties such as weapons handling, to security alarms and carrying out patrols. personnel in fire fighting procedures. Additional
and much more. You may also find yourself refrigeration and air-conditioning systems, and you will also be required to carry out a range of exercise conditions, you’ll be responsible for Members of the Airbase Protection and Security battle tactics, field operations, combat survival, Alternatively, you could train to team up with a tasks include hazardous materials response,
testing and servicing various workshop machines aircraft arrestor systems. (GE Trade/QE). construction and maintenance tasks from site the provision of temporary water reticulation, (Reserve) need to have a high commitment and land search and rescue. (GE), (AR). Military Working Dog to provide security patrols motor vehicle accident response, bushfire work,
and tools. (QE). excavations to grading of roads and drains. From and sewage and gas in a variety of locations in to physical fitness and the ability to deal with and law enforcement. (GE), (AR). search and rescue, and other natural disaster
TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo time to time, you may be required to work shifts or Australia and overseas. You will also work closely members of the public. You spend the majority of TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo response work should the need arise. (GE), (AR).
TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll be posted to an a self-paced Heavy Vehicle Maintenance Course. participate in deployed operations with the Army in with trades such as carpenters and electricians your time working outdoors (AR). the Basic Airfield Defence Guard Course to be TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll undertake
operational RAAF unit, where you’ll receive on the job If you’re already qualified, you may apply for remote areas located within Australia or overseas. on both civil and general construction projects. trained in small arms; high explosive weapons 22 weeks of security training at the RAAF Security TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo
training specific to that workplace along with instruction recognition of prior learning to fast track through What’s more, your expertise will be called upon to (QE), (AR). TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll undertake a and explosive stores; radio communications; field and Fire School at RAAF Base Amberley, near training in first aid, fire vehicle operation, the
on general and technical administration procedures. As the course. The course introduces heavy vehicle support other trades such as Plumbers, Carpenters number of days of airbase protection training both engineering; battle-craft and tactics; map reading Brisbane. You’ll learn about security administration, use of breathing apparatus, rescue from heights,
your career develops, you may be given the opportunity maintenance to enable you to do routine servicing and Electricians in the performance of their duties. TRAINING: After recruit training, a wide variety of within your local unit and at the RAAF Security and and navigation; first aid and casualty handling; and policy and procedures; and train in protective casualty handling, and portable rescue equipment
to undergo advanced training enabling you to work on at all maintenance levels as well as fault-diagnosis. (GE Trade), (AR). general service and employment specific training Fire School at RAAF Base Amberley, near Brisbane. nuclear, biological and chemical defence. security, combat skills, defensive tactics, incident operation. In addition, you’ll also be taught the use
CNC lathes manufacturing specific aircraft components. On completion of your training, you’ll graduate as may be undertaken. You may then be trained in The areas you’ll cover include defensive driving, and crime response, and military dog handling. of portable fire extinguishers and rescue equipment,
a Ground Support Equipment Technician Grade 1. TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll undergo six general construction and supervisory courses. weapons handling, self-defence, and foot and the operation of fixed fire detection/suppression
weeks of Airfield Engineering Basic Core Training, vehicle patrol duties. system controls, and the servicing of fire fighting
learning to drive and operate Land Rovers, Unimogs, and rescue equipment.
backhoe loaders and more. Upon completion, you’ll be
required to complete a 16-week Basic Heavy Equipment
Operator Course, which covers theory and skills relating
to the driving of heavy plant vehicles such as scrapers
9 10
and bulldozers.
“I KNOW AT THE END OF THE DAY WHAT I’VE
DONE AT WORK HAS MADE A DIFFERENCE”.
COMMUNICATIONS, IT AND INTELLIGENCE SPECIALIST
GEOSPATIAL INTELLIGENCE ANALYST INTELLIGENCE ANALYST (OPERATIONS) INTELLIGENCE ANALYST (SIGNALS) AIR SURVEILLANCE OPERATOR COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ELECTRONIC TECHNICIAN MUSICIAN
SYSTEM CONTROLLER
How about a job where you’ll be working with Can you keep a secret? Are you good at problem Like to do something vital for Australia’s As an Air Surveillance Operator you’ll establish As a Communication Electronic Technician, you’ll Like the gig of a lifetime? One where you
some of the most sophisticated computer solving? Do you want to be paid to learn a foreign security? As a Intelligence Analyst (Signals) and maintain an up-to-date and complete picture As a Communications and Information System be maintaining some of the most sophisticated actually get paid every day of your career?
equipment in the country? Geospatial Intelligence language and/or surveillance techniques? you’ll be operating cutting edge receiving and of air and surface activities within Australia’s Controller (CISCON), you’ll be responsible for ground-based telecommunications and electronic As an Air Force Musician, you’re employed to
Analysts (AIA – GEOINT) are employed to support As an Intelligence Analyst (Operations) you analysis equipment to provide vital intelligence airspace using a network of radars whilst working the management of information systems and systems in the country. These systems include a perform in the Air Force Band providing music
the Air Force aerial reconnaissance strike will contribute directly to the Air Force mission and communications security requirements for closely with Air Force Air Combat Officers. (GE). operation of communication systems that support vast array of radar, radio, satellite, Local and Wide for events such as ceremonial occasions,
capability and produce intelligence products from in a wide range of Information Warfare related military commanders and other Defence and the entire Defence Force. The computer systems Area IT Networks, cabling and transmission lines, parades and guards of honour. You’ll also get
imagery and geospatial information in support roles. (GE). national authorities. (GE). TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo an include Local Area Networks, Wide Area Networks, and computer systems to ensure the Air Force has to perform throughout Australia and overseas
of ADF operations. You’ll be providing the very Air Surveillance Operators Course. During 11 weeks Web publishing, and database management. an accurate view of the airspace around it. (GE). to audiences ranging from school children to
latest intelligence information that will assist in the TRAINING: After recruit training and 11 weeks of TRAINING: After recruit training you’ll undertake spent at RAAF Base, Williamtown, NSW, you’ll be The communications systems include both secure foreign dignitaries. (QE).
planning of Air Force missions. (GE). Intelligence Analyst (Operations) Initial Employment 11 weeks of Intelligence Analyst (Signals) Initial taught basic radio and radar theory, the Australian and non-secure voice, data, video and message TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo
TRAINING:
Training, you’ll stay on at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Employment Training at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Defence Force Aerospace Battle Management services across all media. (GE). a Fitter Course which covers practical training The Air Force does not provide any
TRAINING:
After recruit training you’ll undertake SA for 11 weeks learning about providing all-source SA; then move on to the Defence Force School of System structure, meteorology, communications on high reliability soldering, component removal formal employment training for Musicians.
11 weeks of Geospatial Intelligence Analyst Initial intelligence analysis support to aerospace and air Signals, Cabarlah, QLD. There, you’ll learn how to and electronic warfare. TRAINING: After recruit training, you’ll undergo and installation, trade safety, and technical However, you will need to complete your recruit
Employment Training at RAAF Base Edinburgh, base operations. After that you’ll take a series of analyse complex signals for intelligence purposes, the Defence CIS Operator Course where you’ll be administration. On completion of this training, training and be proficient in music to certain
SA, to acquire a basic understanding of intelligence specialist courses in areas such as communications and be trained in radio and communications theory taught communications and information systems, you’ll graduate as an Aircraftsman Communication Australian Music Examinations Board or Associate in
support to air operations. You’ll then head to and signals, counter-intelligence, ground intelligence and technical analysis techniques. general security procedures, PC operations and Electronic Fitter Grade 1. You’ll then be posted to an Music, Australia standards.
Kokoda Barracks, Canungra for the 21-week Imagery and linguistics. maintenance, tactical communications, radio air base to undergo on-the-job training.
Analysis Training Continuum course, learning to telephony, and network operating system basics.
analyse and present imagery data received from a
variety of sources.
11 12
STEP TWO.
TRAINING
RECRUIT TRAINING SPECIALIST TRAINING
SEE IF LIFE IN THE
Now that you know more about the range of Once you’ve joined the Air Force, you’ll Once you’ve completed your recruit training,
interesting careers available and the various undergo your initial military training at you’ll undertake specialist training in your
avenues of entry, the next few sections will Number 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) at chosen field. On completion of specialist
give you some idea as to what to expect from RAAF Base Wagga, New South Wales. training, you’ll be posted to a RAAF base or
AIR FORCE IS FOR YOU.
life in the Air Force. 1RTU prepares you both physically and Defence establishment. To give you some idea
For even more detailed information visit mentally for service in the Air Force. as to what this will entail, please refer to the
defencejobs.gov.au/airforce Your recruit training lasts just over ‘Training’ section of the job descriptions in
11 weeks and will teach you basic military Step One of this brochure.
skills and knowledge, as well as instil in you
THE ROLE OF THE AIR FORCE
a sense of pride in being in the Air Force. TRAINING ACCREDITATION
The role of the Air Force is to provide defence
of Australia’s people, security and interests. WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE IT? All Air Force trade traineeships come with
This is achieved through the delivery of effective, nationally accredited TAFE equivalent
precision air and space power. The Air Force is It is unlikely that you will be released by the qualifications. They also guarantee you a
an internationally respected organisation that Air Force in advance of completing your initial job on completion of your specialist training.
not only looks after the security of Australia minimum period of service unless you apply to
but, in times of need, performs a vital role with leave within an initial amnesty period (within ON-GOING TRAINING
humanitarian and emergency-response work first 90 days of enlistment). If you seek release
both here and overseas. after the initial amnesty period and there are The Air Force wants to bring out the very best
significant compelling reasons why you should in you. So throughout your career you’ll be
be released early, you may be released subject to given lots of opportunities to undertake further
meeting a financial condition that recompenses training in your chosen field. The Air Force
the Commonwealth for the cost of training you. wants to ensure you’re getting the most out
of your career.
13 14
“ I’VE SEEN PLACES I
WOULD NEVER HAVE
SEEN IF I DIDN’T
JOIN THE AIR FORCE.”
LIFE ON BASE
A GOOD BALANCE AIRMEN’S CLUB SPORTING LIFE FOOD FRIENDS DISCIPLINE
Once you’ve completed your recruit training, You could call the Airmen’s Club the social Whatever your sport or pastime, you’re sure to Despite what you might think, Air Force food is Given that so much of Air Force life is based Just like any normal job, the Air Force has certain
you’ll be posted to an RAAF base or Defence heart of life on-base – the place that hosts find plenty of people with similar interests very good. You’ll find the kitchen open three upon working closely in a team, from the disciplinary standards that need to be maintained,
establishment for your specialist training or to everything from pool competitions to live on-base. You’ll find most bases have fully- times a day, seven days a week, and if you need moment you join the Air Force you’ll find you’ll especially where people’s lives are on the line.
start your new job. But life in the Air Force isn’t bands, raffles and everyday get-togethers equipped gyms, swimming pools and tennis, a snack in between meals, you can always drop be making a lot of new friends. That will become So while you’ll need to be able to give and take
all work and no play. with your mates. squash and basketball courts. Sports approved into the base shop and pick up anything from a even more apparent when you’re posted to a orders throughout your career in the Air Force,
by the Air Force include: chocolate bar or a packet of chips to fruit juices, base where you’ll probably socialise with your you’ll find discipline is based on reason and
You’ll find our bases are places of constant
Alpine Snow Sports Running & Athletics health bars and salads. And if you have any special work friends just like you would with any job. co-operation between everyone, to ensure
excitement and change, with a huge range of
Aussie Rules Sailing dietary needs, they can be catered for as well. However, given that your working hours are every individual is treated with respect.
social and sporting facilities to help you relax
Basketball Scuba Diving similar to those anywhere else, you can still catch
and enjoy your life out of working hours.
Cricket Soccer up with your friends outside the Air Force as well.
Cycling Softball
Gliding Squash
Golf Tenpin Bowling
Hockey Touch Football
Lawn Bowls Triathlon
Netball Volleyball
Nordic Skiing & Biathlon Water Skiing
Rugby League Water Polo
Rugby Union
15 16
BENEFITS
ACCOMMODATION SUPERANNUATION UNIFORMS
There are basically two types of accommodation The Air Force has its own generous Upon joining the Air Force, you will initially be
in the Air Force: on-base and off-base. On-base, superannuation scheme, which covers you for issued with a free set of uniforms. Following this,
you’ll find comfortable living quarters that are your super, as well as invalidity and death benefits. you will receive an annual allowance to ensure
subsidised by the Air Force. If not required to live your uniform is kept in top shape.
on base, you can either buy your own home or live HEALTHCARE
in subsidised accommodation (subject to marital
status and availability). If you’re single, you may The Air Force looks after your medical and dental
also be eligible to receive rental assistance from needs, providing doctors, dentists and specialist
the Air Force. care should you need it.
PAY LEAVE
Your salary is made up of your basic salary plus You’ll be given 20 days of annual leave for every
a Service Allowance and a Uniform Maintenance year of completed service. However, the Air
Allowance. It’s paid directly into your bank, credit Force recognises that from time to time you may
union or building society account, and tax and need to take leave for other reasons. This may
superannuation are automatically deducted. include Remote Locality Leave, Maternity Leave,
How much you are paid obviously depends upon Compassionate Leave, Parental Leave, Carers
“ THE AIR FORCE PROVIDES EVERYTHING
your rank, length of service and your chosen Leave, Long Service Leave and Examination Leave.
career. However, you will find your pay is very You’ll also find that, in most cases, weekends and
I WANT LIKE SECURITY, FRIENDSHIP
competitive when compared to salaries paid in public holidays are your own, unless of course
similar fields outside the Air Force. Our Careers you’re rostered on duty. And as an added bonus,
AND DIVERSITY. IT JUST MAKES IT A
Coaches will be able to provide you with all salary if you’re single, the Air Force can also pay for
details. your trip home to your next of kin once a year, no REALLY GOOD JOB”.
matter where you’re stationed in Australia.
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