Australian Defence Force

Simpson Barracks Army Expo

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.

Work Experience

Students aged 15–18 years are invited 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 the 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. More opportunities will be available, check the website regularly!

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.