General News
10 July, 2025
Australian Defence Force invites local students
Three representatives from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, visited Rainbow P-12 College on Thursday, July 3, to conduct an informative session about ADF Careers.
The representatives, including Royal Australian Air Force Sergeant Peter Haala, Navy Petty Officer Shaun Ware, and Army Warrant Officer David Pickles, had a detailed interaction with the school’s Year 10 students and answered some critical questions.
about the session, Australian Navy Petty Officer Shaun Ware said they have recently spoken to thousands of regional students about career pathways through these sessions.
“It’s been really important for us to reach out to regional areas like the Wimmera and the Mallee,” he said.
“On this extended tour, we’ve spoken to around 2000 regional students, helping them explore a wide range of opportunities.”
“Sessions like these give students insight into career pathways - whether it’s university, technical trades, or general roles - many of which they can bring back and apply in their own communities.”
The ADF representatives provide information through a PowerPoint presentation about what they are and what they do.
In one of the presentation parts, they explained that a significant portion of their time is spent on training in Australia and overseas.
Students were very keen to learn about different methods of entry and the lifestyle of the ADF people.
Mr Ware said they have noticed a significant increase in students showing interest in joining ADF through these sessions.
“We’ve definitely seen a rise in interest and recruitment from regional areas as a result of these school visits, and that’s why we aim to return at least twice a year,” he said.
“For Year 10 students, we focus on subject selection and future planning, but for Year 11s and 12s, the sessions are geared more towards trade pathways and university preparation.”
In the training and education slide of the presentation, students learn about acquiring various skills and knowledge for life during their time at the defence training.
The presentation concludes by instructing attendees on ‘How to Join,’ which is followed by a series of interesting questions from the students.
Mr Ware said that ADF careers are an excellent path for young people to make a significant impact in their lives and their community.
“A career in defence doesn’t have to be permanent,” he said.
“It’s a great way for young people to gain experience, develop skills, and bring valuable knowledge back to regional areas like Rainbow.”
