A secure future for new graduates

CAF AIRMSHL Stephen Chappell visited RAAF Base Amberley on October 15 to attend the graduation of Security Forces Basic Course 0044.

During the visit, CAF reviewed the graduating cohort and met with the personnel involved in delivering the course, as well as family members and loved ones who attended to celebrate the graduates’ achievement.

The graduation recognised the completion of Security Forces Basic Training, which prepares members to undertake day-to-day security operations on an air base and develop the combat skills required to operate across the threat spectrum.

CO RAAF Security and Fire School WGCDR Joel Keulen spoke to what the graduates brought to the ADF.

“Security Forces Basic Course graduates bring a diverse and highly practical skill set that supports Defence operations, and they are mission-ready from graduation,” WGCDR Keulen said.

“They are trained in physical security, air base security operations, access control, patrol procedures, incident response and force protection principles.

“More importantly, they understand how to assess risk, make decisions under pressure and work effectively as part of integrated Defence teams.”

Members of Air Force Security Forces contribute to a safe and secure operating environment, providing airbase protection and a rapidly deployable response to protect air operations against threats. This includes physical threats, emergency response for major incidents, and protective security for Air Force assets and installations within Australia and overseas.

The security requirement is 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year.

“What makes Security Forces special is the combination of responsibility, variety and purpose. Few careers offer the opportunity to protect critical Defence capabilities, work alongside other services and government agencies, and contribute directly to operations both in Australia and overseas,” WGCDR Keulen said.

“The profession also provides outstanding opportunities for personal development. You build leadership skills, work with advanced technology and become part of a team that takes great pride in protecting the Air Force.

“For anyone considering a career in Security Forces, I would say it is a profession where your actions matter, your development is valued, and the work you do contributes directly to Defence's ability to operate and succeed.”

RAAF Security and Fire School forms part of the Ground Academy of the Air Force Training Group and conducts initial employment training as well as post-graduate training for Defence personnel engaged in protection, security and firefighting duties.

The school trains officers and other ranks in some of the most dangerous, stressful and physically demanding of work environments. Its graduates render essential service on operations both within Australia and overseas.