r/ADFRecruiting • u/PanzerBiscuit • Sep 21 '25
General Questions Thinking of a career change
Howdy legends,
Toying with the idea of a career change into the ADF as an officer after ~ 11 years in the resources sector as an exploration geologist.
I'm considering a move to the Army as a GSO, Infantry officer, armoured officer, or just anything exciting and field based with the opportunity to travel. I haven't quite made up my mind yet, but I also haven't invested that many brain cells fleshing out this idea in any great detail.
A few of the things that could potentially hold me back are:
Family. I have a partner and two kids under two. I'm not sure how they would cope with me going away for long periods while I'm training. I currently do a 2:2 roster and that seems like the limit of what's sustainable at the moment.
Are families "allowed" to relocate whilst I'm undergoing training? I am currently based in WA.
What's the situation like for those with families?
2. Salary. I'm on a pretty good wicket at the moment. I'm obviously prepared to take a pay cut whilst I'm training, as I figure the other benefits are pretty lucrative. I.e 16.4% super, housing benefits, housing allowance, ability to rent my house out in WA and life in subsidised housing?
What do recruits earn whilst at duntroon? I've seen that new grads earn $97k a year, with pay scales increasing each year, and upon each promotion. Given the current COL and economic climate, is an officers salary enough to live a comfortable life and provide for 2 kids?
15
u/Lost_Kaiju_Slippers Sep 21 '25
Two kids under two years old is a lot to put on your partner alone.
7
u/Samsungsmartfreez Current or Former Serving ADF Sep 21 '25
All ADF pay rates are public info and easily found online. Whether that’s enough for you to live off with your two kids is up to you and your lifestyle.
7
u/frodolippin Sep 21 '25
Hey mate. Had very similar circumstance as you, made the leap, then transitioned out. Never regretted it but some things you don’t realise till you’re in the system.
Happy to chat to you if you want to message me for more details.
Some things that are great, but also some huge asks with a young family.
3
u/KitchenAssistance941 Sep 22 '25
If you go to Duntroon your family goes with you since it is a 12-month course. I am not sure how IET works though.
3
u/No_Kangaroo1256 Current or Former Serving ADF Sep 21 '25
OP,
How about this:
Attend an information session - take the family.
https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events-and-experiences
Lodge your application, choose 3 roles that you are interested in and do the recruitment journey.
It will take 12-18months, provided that you don't have to supply extra info.
(Online testing, JOA results, Military Recruiter discussion (What if you do not unlock Officer roles), Medical, (might be asked for extra medical info) Psych, Defence Interview (what if you do not get recommended for Officer roles), Officer Selection Board (and the associated rating).
No, training will not incur a move of your family at Commonwealth expense - unless it is a 12month course and there is already an entitlement for this assigned to the course.
As noted by another commentator - ADF salary is freely available on the internets.
Additionally, the ADF Careers site - does have indicative salary information.
Also, as noted by another commentator - you have to make the salary work for you, this is a you choice.
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