By Janelle Howlett - Careers Coordinator

Career News:

Career Spotlight - Aged-Care Technology Coordinator
February Events

Australian Defence Force

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) are pleased to invite secondary school students aged 15–18 years to participate in Defence’s Work Experience Programs being delivered across Victoria in 2026. These youth-focused programs introduce students to the wide range of career pathways available within the Australian Defence Force (ADF), including the Navy, Army and Air Force, as well as the Australian Public Service (APS).

All program information and links to apply online are available through their website Defence Careers - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience

Successful applicants will be notified via email. Students should read the details carefully so they understand what each program offers. They have more exciting programs planned for this year and will continually update their website as dates are confirmed. So, keep an eye on the website!

Defence Work Experience Programs 2026

Introduction to Navy Program: HMAS Cerberus (April)

Crib Point VIC / Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 April

This work experience program will run over 3 days at the Navy's premier training establishment, HMAS Cerberus.
Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from the Navy base each day.
Metropolitan Melbourne students are strongly encouraged to apply for this program, as regional student applications will be prioritised for the Navy July program below.
Online applications close 15-Mar-2026
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Introduction to Navy Program: HMAS Cerberus (April)

Army Familiarisation Program: Puckapunyal Military Area

Puckapunyal VIC / Monday – Thursday June TBC

This program is anticipated to be in June and will be advertised on the website soon.
This work experience program will run over 4 days and will introduce students to career opportunities with various Army Units including Artillery, Armour and Transport.
This is an overnight program with meals and on base accommodation provided at no cost to successful applicants.

STEM To The Rescue: Wantirna (June)

Wantirna South VIC / Monday 22 – Friday 26 June

This 5 day program offers an immersive experience to tackle real-world STEM challenges. Students will have the opportunity to visit a range of Defence and industry facilities focused on STEM innovation.
Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from Wantirna South each day.
Online applications close 26 Apr 2026.
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - STEM To The Rescue: Wantirna (June)

Introduction to Navy Overnight Program: HMAS Cerberus (July)

Crib Point VIC / Monday 20 – Friday 24 July

This Navy work experience program is open to Victorian, Tasmanian and New South Wales students. Students will arrive at HMAS Cerberus on Monday, 20 July (afternoon) and depart on Friday, 24 July (morning).
This is an overnight program where meals and on base accommodation will be provided at no cost to successful applicants.
Online applications close 17 May 2026.
For more information and to apply, follow the link Defence Careers - Introduction to Navy Overnight Program: HMAS Cerberus (July)

STEM Immersion: Fishermans Bend

Melbourne CBD / Monday – Thursday June TBC

This program is anticipated to be in June and will be advertised on the website soon.
This work experience program has been developed to showcase a variety of STEM careers available in Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and with Industry Partners.
Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from Melbourne CBD each day.

Army Familiarisation: Puckapunyal Military Area

Puckapunyal VIC / Monday – Thursday October TBC

This program is anticipated to be in October and will be advertised on the website soon.
This work experience program will run over 4 days and will introduce students to career opportunities with various Army Units including Artillery, Armour and Transport.
This is an overnight program where meals and on base accommodation will be provided at no cost to successful applicants.

STEM Immersion: Fishermans Bend

Melbourne CBD / Monday – Thursday November TBC

This program is anticipated to be in November and will be advertised on the website soon.
This work experience program has been developed to showcase a variety of STEM careers available in Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and with Industry Partners.
Lunch is provided each day however students must make their own way to and from Melbourne CBD each day.

Defence Careers Expos

Simpson Barracks Army Expo: Simpson Barracks

Yallambie VIC / Saturday, Saturday 14 March

One day careers expo at Simpson Barracks, showcasing various military displays and career opportunities within the Army.
ADF Careers and the Defence Work Experience team will both be in attendance to answer any questions you may have.
Tickets are free, but registration is required. Please see attached poster for the QR registration link.

If you have any further questions the team are always happy to help and can be reached via the inbox vic.workexperience@defence.gov.au

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