Fully Qualified Entrant

Upon completion of Recruit Training, Fully Qualified Direct entrants are usually posted directly to an Operational Unit as Aircraftsman/Aircraftswoman Ground Support Equipment Fitter Grade 1 (AC/W GSEFITT1). However, should any trade related shortfalls be noted during the selection process, you may be attached to Army Logistics Training Centre (ALTC) located at Bonegilla, NSW, for a short period where you will receive additional required training before proceeding to your first posting locality. This information will be provided to you in your letter of offer.

After completion of ALTC training, you will be posted to an Air Force Unit where you will become involved in the day-to-day operations and duties relevant to the mustering and gain a more complete understanding of the mustering, including instructions on general and technical administration procedures.

After completing 12 months On Job Training/Experience (OJT/E) in the workplace, you will become eligible for promotion and regrading to Leading Aircraftsman/Aircraftwoman (LAC/W) GSEFITT2.

Progression beyond LAC/W GSEFITT2 is based on further training and periods of employment. The member may then, in competition, advance through the ranks to Warrant Officer.

Partially Qualified Entrant

Upon completion of Recruit Training, Partially Qualified entrants are attached to Army Logistics Training Centre (ALTC) located at Bonegilla, NSW as an AC/W GSEFITT1. This attachment is about 12 - 16 weeks during which time you will receive additional training in Heavy Vehicle and specific military vehicle maintenance. An RPL/RCC* process will take place that may involve ‘challenge testing' to determine the exact level of additional training required.

After successfully gaining the required competencies, you will be posted to an Air Force Unit where you will become involved in the day-to-day operations and duties relevant to the mustering and gain a more complete understanding of the mustering, including instructions on general and technical administration procedures. You will be provided with a Competency Log Book (Journal) prior to leaving ALTC that details specific tasks that need to be completed over the following 12 months in order to consolidate your training. On completion of the Journal, you will be awarded a Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology (Heavy Vehicle Road Transport) and be eligible for promotion and regrading to LAC/W GSEFITT2 level.

Progression beyond LAC/LACW GSEFITT2 is based on further training and periods of employment. The member may then, in competition, advance through the ranks to Warrant Officer.

Trainee Entrant

Upon completion of Recruit Training, Trainee entrants are attached to Army Logistics Training Centre (ALTC) located at Bonegilla, NSW as an AC/W Trainee for approximately 18 months where you will undergo Heavy Vehicle Motor Mechanic training.

After successfully completing this course and gaining the required competencies, you will be posted to an Air Force Unit as an AC/W GSEFITT1 where you will become involved in the day-to-day operations and duties relevant to the mustering and gain a more complete understanding of the mustering, including instructions on general and technical administration procedures.

You will be provided with a Competency Log Book (Journal) prior to leaving ALTC that details specific tasks that need to be completed over the following 24 months in order to consolidate your training. In order for you to be promoted to Leading Aircraftsman/Woman (LAC/W) GSEFITT1 you will be expected to complete certain defined tasks detailed in that Journal over the first 12 month period. Upon final completion of the Journal, you will be awarded a Certificate III in Automotive Mechanical Technology (Heavy Vehicle Road Transport) and be eligible for regrading to LAC/W GSEFITT2 level.

Progression beyond LAC/LACW GSEFITT2 is based on further training and periods of employment. The member may then, in competition, advance through the ranks to Warrant Officer.

* Recognition of Prior Learning/Recognition of Current Competencies (RPL/RCC) is the process whereby applicants are assessed for the purpose of granting credit for previously gained skills and/or knowledge relevant to the competency/learning outcome. RPL/RCC assessments may be performed during the induction process and any credits awarded will be documented as a condition of enlistment. In some instances, an individual beginning Initial Employment Training (IET) may undergo ‘challenge testing' in his/her field at the relevant Defence training facility and be awarded credits for tested competencies with successful outcomes. Any credits granted effectively reduce the time that an individual may spend at the training facility. Applicants are to note that although certain civilian competencies may appear to be suitably transferable, the unique nature of the Defence environment may dictate that additional training is required in that area to satisfy Service needs and exigencies.

Technician Progression

Progression to Technician for the GSEFITT2 is by the successful completion of the GSETECH course which comprises electrical and electronic subjects relevant to GSE vehicles and equipment. The course is conducted at RAAF Base Wagga over a period of 29 weeks and may be offered to selected Corporals and/or LAC/W GSEFITT2’s who are competitive for promotion to Corporal. Available positions for this course are dependent upon workforce requirements. On completion the LAC is eligible for promotion to Corporal and may, in competition, advance through the ranks to Warrant Officer.