Chief of the Defence Force Welcomes ADFA's Newest Members

The Australian Defence Force Academy’s (ADFA) newest midshipmen and officer cadets marched onto the parade ground in Canberra today for the Chief of the Defence Force Parade to mark the end of their initial military training program.

Chief of the Defence Force, General David Hurley AC, DSC congratulated the 314 cadets on their successful transition into the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

“All of the young men and women on parade today were chosen for their leadership qualities.

“The Australian Defence Force Academy and its graduates are held in high regard across the Defence Organisation and by our allies who recognise the quality and calibre of the ADFA alumni.

“Their success and the achievements of those officers who followed are a testament to the value of ADFA as the Defence Force's premier joint training institution,” General Hurley said.

The Chief of the Defence Force told parents and guests it is an exciting time to embark on a career in the ADF.

“We are on the verge of some major changes with new roles opening to women and new capabilities on the horizon.  The midshipmen and officer cadets at ADFA today will have ownership and critical leadership responsibilities for these new capabilities and for the people who will operate them,” General Hurley said.

Next week the cadets will begin their academy program through the University of New South Wales.

Media Contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999