Enjoy all these benefits

Rewarding work, job stability, an adventurous lifestyle and a friendly workplace are just the start. In the Navy you’ll enjoy all this too:

A competitive salary and more

Including paid training, allowances, and subsidised food and housing

Support for your health and fitness

With free dental and medical care and use of sport and fitness facilities

An inclusive team environment

With Indigenous networks and support for cultural and community events

World-class training and education

Including programs that help you reach the required education and fitness levels to join

Travel and memorable experiences

Including helping communities in need across Australia and overseas

Opportunities to lead and mentor

Gaining personal and professional skills you can take back to your community



Career Pathways for Indigenous Australians

If you show potential but would benefit from additional physical and mental preparation, you may be offered one of the alternate entry pathways below. We also offer programs for those with specific timing needs. But first, you’ll need to apply through the standard recruitment process (see Ways to join section further down the page).

Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program (IPRP)

If you've been selected to join the Navy, and want to develop your confidence, resilience, and fitness before you start, the seven-week Indigenous Pre-Recruit Program might be for you. You'll get a taste of being on a military base, and leave with the fitness and skills to begin your career.


Navy Indigenous Development Program (NIDP)

If you want to join the Navy, this program will help you improve your reading, writing and fitness. It runs for 21 weeks, and you’ll be fully paid while you learn new skills and grow as a person.


Recruit When Ready Recruit When Ready
Recruit When Ready

If you’re motivated to join as soon as possible, we’ll work with you to find the next available Initial Military Training course so you can kick-start your career faster.




Support in the Navy

Support & Guidance Support & Guidance
Support & Guidance

Your application will be handled by a specialist Indigenous Career Coach who will guide you through the process. You will be introduced to them once you have completed your initial application.

Once in the Navy you can access a range of support programs, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentoring program. You will receive guidance from current serving ADF members, who will help you as you begin your career. This dedicated program will continue throughout your time in the Navy.


Support your community Support your community
Support your community

The skills and knowledge you gain will be of great use in your community, which we encourage you to support through returning there. This gives you the opportunity to inspire others and provide mentorship.



Stories of success

Proud Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders enjoy rewarding careers in the Navy. Meet some of them here, and hear about their jobs.

Jorde, Seamanship & Small Arms Specialist

“I see myself being a leader amongst my crew... someone to look up to.”

Kelly, Hydrographic Systems Manager

“The Navy has helped me connect to my traditional culture.”

Sarah, Maritime Warfare Officer

“It’s a great opportunity to be a role model within your own community.”





Defence Reconciliation Action Plan

The Australian Defence force is committed to reconciliation and recognises the traditional owners of the lands, seas and skies we defend.



The terms Indigenous and Indigenous Australians are used to describe all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Please be aware that this website may contain images or content relating to deceased persons. It may also contain words and descriptions that are culturally sensitive.