Women in the Navy


The Navy offers a range of exciting career opportunities to everyone, regardless of gender. We champion gender equality and provide a uniquely supportive working environment.


Share an exciting lifestyle

When you're working ashore, most Navy jobs have regular hours, giving you plenty of opportunities to socialise, play sport, spend time with your family and make the most of the extensive fitness and leisure facilities on base.

When serving at sea, your days will be structured to balance work time with relaxation; and most vessels feature plenty of exercise and entertainment equipment.


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Enjoy career equality

In today's modern ADF, women receive exactly the same salaries, training, vocational development and promotion opportunities as their male colleagues. We believe career advancement and rewards should be based on potential, effort and achievement.


Receive support for family needs

Parents in the Navy are given the flexibility and support to manage their family commitments while continuing their career. This includes the provision of extended leave and part-time work options when appropriate, and the offer of alternative or 'on hold' career paths to accommodate changes in circumstances.

Serving members with families have access to support programs which include:

  • 24/7 support during deployment, relocation and time apart
  • Partner employment
  • Children's education services
  • Childcare
  • Crisis support


Our Navy is our people

It’s the people that make the Navy what it is; individuals with their own ambitions and stories. They are what drive the Navy forward. Meet just a few of them to discover where the Navy could take you.

Bianca's story

“I love to travel, experiencing new cultures and what they have to offer.”

Brittany’s story

“The Navy have supported me 100% in pursuing what I want in my career.”

Steph's story

“Being a Mum in the Navy hasn’t stopped me from being able to pursue things outside of work or within working hours.”

Keren's story

“Every single day I found myself pushing boundaries and discovering that I could go further.”

Corrine's story

“The Navy is constantly helping me develop my career and they are always helping me progress.”



Whatever you love doing, find the perfect career in the Navy

Women of all backgrounds enjoy rewarding careers in the Navy, across a broad range of trades and professions. We believe the opportunities you are offered should be based on attributes and potential, regardless of gender.




Be paid to keep fit and healthy

It's important for Navy personnel to be fit enough to carry out their duties effectively, so keeping fit will be an integral part of your job. When at sea you'll have access to gym equipment. When ashore, you can enjoy a wide range of team sports on base along with pools and well-equipped fitness facilities.

This guide will help you get started on your fitness journey, including correct practising techniques for your Pre-entry Fitness Assessment (PFA).


Flexible pathways

The Navy has flexible enlistment pathway options for different phases of a career. These have been developed with the needs of candidates seeking full-time or part-time roles, and with some roles having more than one entry method. Discover the best way for you to start an exciting career in the Navy.


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Enjoy a shorter commitment 

If you want to experience life in the Navy but are concerned about the number of years you have to commit to, a 2 to 3 year role is for you.

There are 2 to 3 year roles available for General Entry Sailor and Submariner roles, this includes Marine Technician, Electronics Technician, Aviation Technician, Communications Operator, Networks Operator, Electronic Warfare Submariner, and more.


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Join when it suits you

If you demonstrate high potential when interviewed and are keen to join as soon as possible, Recruit When Ready could be for you.

  • Join at a time that suits your personal circumstances.
  • Open to all General Entry roles.

Get in touch

Get all the answers to your questions, whether you’re a candidate, parent or career advisor.