The Navy sponsors suitable applicants to undertake tertiary studies at a civilian university in an Australian State or Territory. Undergraduates must have completed at least one year of their degree and have no more than three years to complete (medical undergraduates may be sponsored for up to four years).

In general, successful applicants are appointed to the rank of Midshipman and paid at that rank while studying full-time. The granting of a higher rank will be dependent upon the degree course studied and the year of study on entry.  The Navy will provide financial assistance for the purchase of all essential books and equipment and, in some cases, will assist with accommodation and other expenses such as rental costs, food and electricity.

The Navy will also pay tertiary institution fees and Student Contribution Charges for as long as the student remains in the Service.  An agreement to serve in the Navy for a period of one year for each year of sponsorship, plus one additional year, is required before sponsorship is approved.  This means that a three-year degree sponsorship will attract a four-year return of service obligation on completion of degree studies.

The Navy will accept applications from Full-fee paying students for undergraduate sponsorship. Full-fee paying university students will be reimbursed the equivalent amount of HECs for their degree stream and are eligible for all other entitlements under the Navy Undergraduate Scheme.

Note: Navy is not currently recruiting Undergraduate Legal Officers.

Officer entry to the Naval Reserve is open to suitably qualified civilians with or without previous service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Those with previous service in a component of the ADF or the Defence Force of another country, will be processed in a similar manner to civilian applicants but may be offered a rank and seniority consistent with the last rank held.

Attendance Requirement

Following your Initial Training and as a trained member of the Active Naval Reserve, you are required to serve a minimum of 20 days per year to remain effective and you may work up to 200 days per financial year in approved positions.

Unlike the Army and Air Force that set aside specific days for meeting minimum attendance requirement, in the Navy you will primarily be employed within your Category (specialisation) in a Funded Reserve Commitment (FRC) position. There are additional employment opportunities available in FRC positions outside your specialisation, in project work or Permanent Navy vacancies although this is not to be expected or guaranteed.  This means that you will contribute to Navy capability rather than just 'doing a job.' You will be assisted to find work by either your category sponsor or through advertising material provided to Reserves on a weekly basis.

Reserve personnel may volunteer for a period of full-time service with the Permanent Navy in vacant permanent Navy positions, provided the member's skill sets and services are required.

Further information on part-time ADF careers can be found by accessing the Defence Reserves website.

The Defence Reserves Support Council also promotes the benefits of Reserve service by establishing partnerships with the community and employers.