Airforce Jobs
Career Opportunity | Administration Assistant (ADF Gap Year) Australian Army 2026 Full Time
Introduction
The administration assistant in the Australian army offers more than routine office work. It is a practical, people-focused position designed for individuals who want early responsibility, real structure, and a clear sense of purpose.
Through the ADF Gap Year program, this role gives you a 12-month introduction to professional life inside a disciplined, well-supported organization. You are paid from day one, trained properly, and trusted with work that directly supports Air Force personnel and operations.
As an administration assistant, you become part of the system that keeps the Australian army functioning smoothly. The job blends administration, communication, and coordination with exposure to personnel management, operations planning, and resource support.
It suits people who like variety, prefer organized environments, and want to build transferable skills without locking themselves into a long-term commitment too early. The structure is firm, but the learning curve is real.
You gain confidence, workplace discipline, and experience that carries value well beyond the year. For those considering long-term growth in defence, government, or professional administration, this role provides a strong and credible starting point.
Job Overview
The administration assistant role exists to support the day-to-day people, resources, and operational needs of the Australian Army, specifically within the Air Force under the ADF Gap Year entry method. Employed full-time, administration assistants work across Air Force bases and units, ensuring personnel, information, and processes move efficiently. The position is formally known in service as Personnel Capability Specialist Gap Year.
Working mainly in well-equipped offices and occasionally in field environments during exercises, this role supports Air Force members and commanders by keeping administrative systems accurate and accessible.
After training, you may be posted to Air Force bases across Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, or the Northern Territory. The role is hired and managed directly by the Australian Army through ADF Careers, with placements based on operational needs.
Key Responsibilities
As an administration assistant, your responsibilities are supporting people and operations. You assist Air Force members and leaders by interpreting policies, processing applications, and ensuring personnel matters are handled correctly. A significant part of the role involves personnel operations, where you help plan exercises and deployments by matching the right people to the right positions.
Another important aspect is operational coordination. You may work with squadron executives, aircrew, maintenance teams, and base services to help organize air and ground activities.
Resource and knowledge management also form part of your daily work, including handling financial, human, and information systems.
Communication plays a steady role, as you draft and distribute messages for internal channels and, at times, external platforms such as websites or social media.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the administration assistant role, candidates must be Australian citizens aged between 17 and 24 and at least 18 by the time they complete initial military training. Completion of Year 10 education with passes in English and math is required, though support may be available for those who have not completed Year 10.
Applicants must hold a valid Australian Class C driver’s license and meet medical, fitness, and security clearance requirements. Physical fitness standards include sit-ups and shuttle run benchmarks, assessed before enlistment. Beyond formal requirements, the role suits individuals who communicate clearly, manage time well, follow procedures, and remain calm in structured environments.
Training & Career Development
Training for an administrative assistant is fully paid and carefully staged. The first phase is the 9-week Air Force Recruit Course at RAAF Base Wagga, where you transition from civilian to service life and build physical fitness, teamwork, and military knowledge. This is followed by Initial Employment Training, a minimum 5-week course focused on clerical systems, human resources, and organizational processes.
After completing formal training, you spend around seven months working in a unit to consolidate your skills. Ongoing guidance from experienced Air Force personnel supports your development. At the end of the gap year, you may choose to continue full-time, move to the Air Force Reserve, or leave with valuable experience and qualifications.
Salary & Benefits
An administration assistant in the Australian army receives a competitive salary from the start. During training, the starting salary is approximately $60,517 per annum, increasing to at least $82,322 per annum once fully trained. This is supported by a generous superannuation of 16.4 percent.
Additional benefits include free medical and dental care, subsidized healthcare for family members, housing assistance, and paid leave. The work environment is stable, structured, and professionally managed. Compensation may vary depending on location, experience, and allowances, but the overall package is designed to provide financial security early in your career.
Who Should Apply
This is the perfect role for those who enjoy teamwork and responsibility. If you like clear expectations, structured days, and learning through doing, the administration assistant position is a strong fit. It appeals to school leavers and early-career individuals who want paid training, practical skills, and time to decide their long-term direction.
The ideal candidate is reliable, adaptable, and comfortable working with systems and people. You do not need prior office experience, but you do need discipline, curiosity, and the ability to follow instructions while contributing ideas when needed.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should begin by submitting an online application through ADF Careers, providing personal details, education history, and up to three job preferences. After applying, you complete a job opportunities assessment to determine suitability.
The next steps include attending a virtual or in-person YOU session, completing medical and psychological assessments, and participating in an ADF interview. If required, you will also complete a pre-entry fitness assessment. Successful applicants receive an official offer and attend enlistment day, marking the start of their role in the Australian Army.
Preparation Tips
Before applying, learn about the structure and purpose of the Australian Army and the Air Force. Improve basic computer skills, written communication, and time management. Physical fitness should not be ignored, as meeting entry standards early reduces stress later. Understanding teamwork and following procedures will also help you adjust quickly to training and unit life.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long is the Gap Year program?
The program runs for 12 months, starting at the beginning of the year.
Q: Do I need prior administrative experience?
No prior experience is required, as all training is provided.
Q: Where will I be posted after training?
Postings can be to any Air Force base across Australia, depending on operational needs.
Q: Is there an obligation to stay after the gap year?
No, there is no obligation beyond the 12-month program.
Q: What are the working hours like?
Most work follows standard office hours, with flexibility during exercises or operations.
Q: Can I continue in the Australian army after the program?
Yes, you may apply to continue full-time or transfer to the Air Force Reserve.
Q: Is the role physically demanding?
The role is mainly office-based, but basic fitness is required for training and exercises.
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