Inside the Department of Defence: Your 60-Second Guide to Landing Your Dream Role 🚀
Ever wondered what it’s really like to work at Australia’s Department of Defence? We’ve done the heavy lifting and combed through their annual report, so you don’t have to! In this quickfire overview, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this department—from their key functions and finances to the specific skills and qualifications they’re seeking in new recruits. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate your path to a rewarding government career. Let’s dive in! 👇
AT-A-GLANCE
Name of Department: Department of Defence
Location: Headquarters in Canberra, ACT (offices Australia-wide)
CEO: Greg Moriarty (Secretary of the Department of Defence)
Total Revenue: AUD $51.5 billion (2023–24 total available funding)
Total Number of Employees: 76,691 (permanent ADF + APS ongoing)
THE QUALIFICATION, CERTIFICATIONS, TRADES, PROFESSIONS, WORK EXPERIENCES & SKILLS MOST SUITED TO
Top 5 Academic Qualifications Most Suited
Certificate/Diploma in Security or Logistics – Ideal for operational support, inventory handling, and base management.
Bachelor’s in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Mechatronics) – Essential for designing, maintaining, and improving Defence technology and equipment.
Bachelor’s or Master’s in Cybersecurity/Computer Science – Critical for protecting Defence’s digital assets, networks, and infrastructure.
Degrees in Policy, Strategic Studies, or International Relations – Perfect for roles in strategic policy development, planning, and international liaison.
PhD in Advanced Research Fields (AI, Quantum Computing, Aerospace, etc.) – Contributes to cutting-edge Defence technology, innovation, and capability enhancements.
Top 5 Certifications Most Suited
Project Management Professional (PMP) or PRINCE2 – Helps manage complex Defence projects efficiently.
Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) – Industry-recognized accreditation for senior technical roles.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Showcases expertise in information security, a vital area for cyber operations.
Commercial/Contract Management Certifications – Crucial for procurement and oversight in large-scale equipment acquisitions.
ITIL or Agile Certifications – Supports service delivery and process improvements in Defence’s tech environment.
Top 5 Trades / Professions Most Suited
Mechanical and Electrical Trades – Maintain vehicles, aircraft, and naval vessels.
ICT and Telecommunications Technicians – Ensure secure and reliable communications infrastructure.
Aviation Technicians – Keep cutting-edge aircraft and systems operational.
Policy and Strategy Officers – Shape Defence’s objectives, missions, and stakeholder engagements.
Intelligence Analysts – Provide critical insights for strategic and operational decision-making.
Top 5 Skills Most Suited
Leadership and Team Management – Leading units or cross-functional groups in dynamic settings.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving – Essential for tackling complex security or logistical challenges.
Communication and Stakeholder Engagement – Collaborating with government agencies, industry partners, and international allies.
Adaptability and Flexibility – Thriving in rapidly changing strategic or operational environments.
Technical Proficiency – Handling sophisticated Defence technology, from secure networks to advanced weaponry.
Top 5 Work Experiences Most Suited
Military Service or Defence Contracting – Provides firsthand operational understanding and mission focus.
Public Policy or Government Administration – Experience in policy-making, governance, and budget cycles.
Engineering Projects or Manufacturing – Designing and producing assets for major Defence acquisition programs.
Cybersecurity or IT Project Delivery – Key to safeguarding sensitive Defence information systems.
Supply Chain & Logistics Management – Keeping everything moving smoothly, from procurement to deployment.
THE KEY FACTS
Name of Department: Department of Defence
Name of CEO: Greg Moriarty (Secretary)
Location: Australia-wide; headquarters in Canberra, ACT
Year Founded: 1901
Main Mission and Purpose:
Defend Australia and its national interests to advance Australia’s security and prosperity.
Real-World Example: Defence protects Australia’s sovereignty, ensures the safety of trade routes, and provides essential support during national emergencies.
Main Duties of the Department:
Overseeing the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) operations, training, and deployments.
Formulating strategic defence policies and capability planning.
Providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief when required.
Real-World Example: Deploying troops during natural disasters or emergencies to safeguard affected communities.
Key Projects, Key Strategic Priorities, Future Plans and Initiatives:
Shifting to an integrated, focused force guided by the National Defence Strategy.
Expanding long-range strike, cyber defence capabilities, and nuclear-powered submarine programs.
Upgrading bases and enhancing partnerships with allies and regional partners.
Did You Know?
Defence manages 3.87 million hectares of land across Australia, making it one of the largest land custodians in the nation! 🌏
THE EMPLOYEES & REVENUE
Total Number of Employees: 76,691 (permanent ADF personnel + APS ongoing employees).
Total Number of Employees at Each Pay Level: Not publicly disclosed in the annual report.
Salary Bands: Not provided in the annual report. Pay structures align with APS and ADF ranks.
Average Salary in the Department: Not publicly disclosed in the annual report.
Total Revenue: AUD $51.5 billion (2023–24)
Average Revenue per Employee: ~AUD $672,000 (Total Revenue ÷ Total Number of Employees)
GETTING A JOB AT THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE 📊
When writing your application, use common job titles and keywords found in government job postings, such as “Policy Officer,” “Project Manager,” “Cybersecurity Analyst,” and so on.
Which Academic Subjects Are Likely to Be Most Sought After?
Certificate / Diploma Level:
Security & Risk Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Mechanical or Electrical Trades
Why It’s Useful: These qualifications provide hands-on skills and knowledge, ideal for base support and administrative operations.
Bachelor / Master Level:
Cybersecurity, Engineering, Strategic & Security Studies, Computer Science, Commerce/Finance
Why It’s Useful: Graduates can apply for leadership, specialized, or analytical roles, helping shape Defence operations and strategy.
PhDs:
Quantum Computing, Advanced Materials, Artificial Intelligence, Aerospace Engineering, and Defence-Related Research
Why It’s Useful: Pioneers next-level innovation, research, and capability, ensuring Australia’s leading edge in Defence technology.
Which Trades and Professions Are Likely to Be Most Sought After?
From aviation mechanics and IT technicians to policy advisers, engineers, and intelligence officers, the Defence department needs a wide array of trades and professions to stay mission-ready.
Which Work Experiences Are Likely to Be Most Sought After?
Large-scale project management, policy work, logistics and supply chains, cybersecurity, and specialized engineering all align with Defence’s operational and strategic goals.
Which Skills Are Likely to Be Most Sought After?
Soft Skills: Leadership, communication, collaboration, resilience, strategic thinking
Technical Skills: Cybersecurity, systems engineering, data analytics, software development, project management
General Skills: Time management, attention to detail, team coordination, adaptive problem-solving
Which Hobbies and Interests Align with the Work of This Department?
Enthusiasm for technology, coding, or robotics, outdoor fitness and sporting activities, strategic gaming (e.g., chess, war-gaming), community volunteering, and any genuine interest in defence and security affairs can help candidates stand out.
Want More Information on This Department? 💡
Contact the Department:
Physical Office Address: Department of Defence, Russell Offices, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
Telephone: 1300 333 362
Email: defence.jobs@defence.gov.au (General Recruitment Inquiries)
Website: defence.gov.au and defencejobs.gov.au
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DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available information, including annual reports. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information on this article. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this article.