The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is calling for adult volunteers to lead and inspire young people to join part of the Navy, Army and Air Force cadets.
Head of ADF Cadets at the Department of Defence, Major General Douglas Laidlaw said ADF Cadets were the Department’s leading youth development program.
Major General Laidlaw the program supported 13- to 18-year-olds through activities that helped them thrive in a team environment, improve communication skills and become responsible members of the local community.
He said ADF Cadets also helped young people become more confident, capable and resilient.
“The cadets program provides rewarding, challenging and exciting activities for youth in hundreds of locations around Australia,” Major General Laidlaw said.
“However, it wouldn’t be able to provide the experiences it does without the support from the local community and the involvement of volunteers.”
He said ADF Cadets volunteers came from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, and were supported with training to develop their leadership skills.
“ADF Cadets is an inclusive organisation that provides opportunities for young people from a wide range of social backgrounds and abilities,” Major General Laidlaw said.
“You don’t need any previous military experience to help out as a volunteer,” he said.
“Whether you have a little time to give or a lot, you will be welcomed into a close-knit, supportive and friendly community of volunteers who are putting the future of our nation in good hands.”
Major General Laidlaw said there were about 28,000 cadets currently enrolled in ADF Cadets, and the call for adult volunteers was a key component of a number of initiatives to enhance the program.
Further information on volunteering with ADF Cadets can be accessed at this PS News link.
