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ADF Cadets

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  Cadet face-to-face activities have been suspended since March in line with the national effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the gradual relaxation of a number of the restrictions within the states and territories, planning has been underway to prepare for the resumption of cadet activities. Aligned to the assessment of risk, Defence has approved the conduct of two pilot activities. The first of these is in the NT to be conducted in Darwin and Alice Springs from 5-11 July. It will be predominantly an AAC Battalion Annual Field Exercise but will include elements of ANC and AAFC. The second is SA AAC Brigade’s courses camp to be conducted in Murray Bridge and two Adelaide locations during the period 11-18 July.

Pending the outcome from the pilot activities, Navy, Army and Air Force Cadet programs may be approved to recommence from 18 July. Recommencement will depend on the COVID-19 restrictions in place within each state and territory, the risk mitigation measures that can be put in place at cadet unit level and approval for each activity through the respective Navy, Army and Air Forces senior officers’ in charge of the cadet programs. It is unlikely that all states/territories will be able to recommence face-to-face activities on this date. It is also possible that not all units within an approved state/territory will be in a position to recommence either, depending upon their capacity to meet the risk mitigation measures. There may also be local requirements which limit the nature of activities that can be undertaken by some units, and on-line activities, that have been embraced effectively across the program, may need to continue for a while longer.

The priority for the Cadet program is the safety of our cadets and volunteers. The patience and professionalism displayed by all those involved within the Cadet programs has been exemplary as we work towards returning the program to safe face-to-face activities.

If you’re looking for the chance to do things you don’t do in everyday life, then the Australian Defence Force Cadets (ADF Cadets) is for you.

The ADF Cadets is a community-based youth development organisation focused on Defence customs, traditions and values.

As a cadet you’ll learn leadership, team building and survival skills that will set you up for life.

The Australian Defence Force Cadets is made up of three organisations –

• Australian Navy Cadets
• Australian Army Cadets
• Australian Air Force Cadets

There are approximately 26,000 cadets currently enrolled in the three Cadet programs; 3,200 officers and instructors of cadets and 'approved helpers' supervise and support the young people engaged in the programs; and there are 508 ADF Cadets units in all states and territories. Cadet units occupy facilities in Defence establishments, Defence-owned or leased buildings, schools, and buildings leased by individual units – so there’s bound to be one near you.

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