Current Edition | Term 3, Week 1

How do I apply for the Defence Force?

The ADF recruitment process is designed to ensure you have the qualities needed, while helping you identify the ideal role in the Navy, Army or Air Force. Visit the Defence Recruitment website to find out if you are eligible to join and to access the six steps in the recruitment process. The six steps are:

1. Apply online
2. Complete a Job Opportunities Assessment
3. Attend a virtual YOU Session (Your Opportunities Unlimited Session)
4. Attend Assessment and Officer Selection (if you are wanting this pathway)
5. Take a Fitness Test if required
6. Attend Enlistment and Appointment Day

On the site you will also find answers to the following questions:

1. Is the application process the same for Officer Entry and General Entry?
2. My application is due soon, but I don't have all the required paperwork. What should I do?
3. When do ADFA applications close?
4. What happens after I submit my application forms?

ADFA (Australian Defence Force Academy) Open Day

The 2026 Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Open Day will be held on Saturday August 15, 2026. The event is free to attend and runs from 9am - 4pm AEST. You can choose to join the event in person at the ADFA Canberra campus or participate online. Find out more here including rego info (scroll right down the page).

In Year 12 and wanting an apprenticeship? Start looking now!

Finding an apprenticeship or traineeship can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not sure where to start. The Queensland Government's Find an Apprenticeship or Traineeship website, is a great first step. While it won't find an employer for you, it includes useful tips and links to help you search, such as:

• Find an employer for your apprenticeship or traineeship
• Start an apprenticeship or traineeship
• Searching using keywords like "apprentice" or "trainee" plus your industry of interest
• Advice from training organisations, local TAFEs and Australian Apprenticeship Support Network providers

Check out the website for helpful resources and information. You can also speak with your school's VET Coordinator or Guidance Counsellor for support.

MEGT Online Job Board

MEGT, a Group Training Organisation, provides employment and training options for school students and school leavers. They have an online Job Board listing school-based apprentice and trainee opportunities. Check it out and see your Career Counsellor/Guidance Officer/VET coordinator if you have any questions.

On-Demand Webinars to Watch

Not sure if TAFE is right for you? TAFE Queensland’s on-demand webinar series can help. Get answers to your questions and take a virtual look at what studying at TAFE is really like. These webinars offer a great insight into the courses, support and opportunities available at TAFE Queensland. Find webinar links here on:

• Diploma of Nursing
• Diploma of Business
• Diploma of Music
• Diploma of Beauty Therapy
• Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
• Bachelor of Digital Design (Game Design)
• Bachelor of Creative Industries (Applied Fashion)
• Bachelor of the Built Environment (Interior Architecture)
• Bachelor of Creative Industries (Contemporary Music Practice)

Year 12 Parents and Guardian Resources

Moving from high school to uni can feel like a big step — for both students and parents. Many universities offer helpful resources so parents can better support their child through the transition. These resources help parents understand things like uni expectations, support services and how to encourage independence while still being supportive.

• Australian Catholic University – How parents can help
• James Cook University - Parents and partners
• Griffith University – Parents and Guardians
• Queensland University of Technology - Parents and Carer Engagement
• The University of Queensland – Parents and guardians guide to university
• University of the Sunshine Coast - Parent Lounge.
• TAFE Queensland – Parents and Advisors
• University of Southern Queensland - Parents and Guardians
• University of New England -  Parent, Partner and Friends Information Guide
• Southern Cross University - Guide for Parents and Caregivers

Applying for courses interstate

If you are thinking about applying to a university outside Queensland, you need to apply to the relevant Tertiary Admission's Centre (TAC). Find course information on the TAC websites below. You can have multiple applications running at the same time through different TACs but you need to be sure that you understand and follow the application process as it can vary from TAC to TAC. In the case of high demand courses such as medicine, veterinary science and dentistry, students often apply nationally. The different tertiary admissions' centres are: 

• UAC        New South Wales and ACT
• VTAC      Victoria
• SATAC    South Australia and Northern Territory
• TISC        Western Australia
• UTAS      Tasmania (you apply directly to the University)

2026 online QTAC course guide

The 2026 online QTAC course guide is now out. Click here to access the Guide. Remember, course information can change during the year. It is also a good idea to check the University websites for up to date information and more course details.

QTAC information sessions

Year 12 students interested in applying to university in 2027 have been invited to attend QTAC sessions in week 3 and 4 during school time.  Any student who is eligible for an ATAR and/or has a Certificate III or higher will be in attendance.

Open Days

University open days are coming up in July and August.  Please check this link for individual open days across Australia: Open Days 2026 | myfuture