For officer applicants only, you will have to appear before an Officer Selection Board if you have:
Applied for entry as an officer through ADF Sponsored Undergraduate, ADFA or RMC, or for an ADFA Education Award.
or
Successfully completed the YOU Session and Interview
What is it?
The Selection Board consists of a series of activities designed to test aspects like leadership skills, teamwork and other individual abilities considered critical to the role you have applied for.
You will undergo a formal interview in front of a panel of military officers and a psychologist. You will also participate in a range of challenging problem-solving exercises, designed to test your competitiveness for available vacancies.
Army candidates may also participate in a formal leadership exercise and Air Force candidates are usually required to give a 5 minute oral presentation.
You may also undergo a Physical Fitness Assessment on this day.
How we will help you
We understand that this can be quite an intimidating experience, so board members will make allowances for nerves and do their best to put you at ease. Remember, we want you to do well and make a good impression, so we will help you to do this if we can.
We will help you to get in touch with a current member of the ADF, working in the same Service and position that you are applying for. You can do this by contacting your Defence Recruiter.
Similar to preparing for the Defence Interview, learn as much as you can about the ADF. Read up on your particular job and Service, paying close attention to things like training, the role of an officer and what qualities we look for in a leader and a manager. Know your specific job duties. If you can show us that you have researched your subject thoroughly, we will be impressed.
Here are some tips for individual Services
Navy
- Be able to identify ships
- Know the various organisational structures such as:
- Force Element Groups
- Research future acquisitions for the Navy.
Air Force
- Know all aircraft types
- Be aware of the various organisational structures such as:
- Force Element Groups
- Research future acquisitions for the Air Force.
Army
- Have a thorough understanding of RMC
- Know the various organisational structures like Corps and Regiments
- Research future acquisitions for the Army
General Defence interview tips
Good general knowledge about Defence issues and current operations is an advantage, as is an appreciation of current affairs that are relevant to the ADF. As in any other interview, present yourself well, make us aware of what you have to offer and communicate as clearly and confidently as possible.