Recruitment Evolution: Greater Opportunity to Pursue a Career in SOCOMD

Australia’s current strategic military environment is increasingly complex, comprising sophisticated and rapidly evolving threats. Our Special Forces (SF) personnel must operate in what will be a fast-paced and highly technical battlespace.

To address this challenging battlespace, Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) is seeking the next generation of Special Forces Soldiers and Officers. We want ADF members who are ready to take their career to the next level, to play a part in cutting-edge warfare now, and into the future.

The Australian Defence Force School of Special Operations (ADFSSO) is responsible for the attraction, screening, selection, training, and development of SOCOMD’s workforce. We are always looking for high calibre individuals who are seeking a challenge. People who are willing and able to protect and defend our nation, through asymmetric and non-conventional means.

Over the years, RAR members have performed strongly during the selection process and continue to remain highly competitive for positions in SOCOMD. The RAR has traditionally formed the backbone of the SF Operator trades and we need that strong investment to continue.

For us to continue delivering high value capability, SOCOMD’s recruitment approach has evolved to make sure we get the right people, with the right skills, at the right time. Now is the time to join a team united by the pursuit of excellence, professional mastery and a desire to achieve a greater level of purpose in everything they do.

‘Always on’ recruiting

We are always recruiting for the next generation of Special Forces (SF) Operators, Engineers, Signallers, Medics and Enablers.

SOCOMD has shifted its recruitment approach to a persistent, ongoing assessment and screening model to maximise opportunities to identify and attract the most suitable candidates. This new model means more flexibility for candidates. Allowing people into the ‘pipeline’ when they are ready and available.

The introduction of the Special Forces Assessment Program (SFAP), held regularly throughout the calendar year, provides more opportunities to join SOCOMD. The multi-day program is run monthly from September of this year. It will include the Special Forces Entry Test (SFET), Special Forces Diagnostic Assessment (SFDA) (for specialists such as Engineers, Signallers and Medics), education on the Command’s offer to you and advice on preparing for the Selection Course. Simply submit an Expression of Interest Form and BFA Record to be considered for panelling.

Broader opportunities

SOCOMD’s workforce is drawn from current ADF members across the Services (Army, Navy and Air Force), as well as externally via the Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme. RAR members are now eligible to apply for SF Operator and SF Engineer roles. Upon joining, you’ll gain exposure to high-risk, high-reward operational environments and access opportunities not offered anywhere else in the ADF.

SF Operators are trained to employ SF tactics, techniques and procedures specific to one of three SOCOMD Core Functions: Strike & Recovery, Special Warfare and Special Reconnaissance. They operate in highly complex environments, often isolated from friendly forces and must be able to handle high levels of stress, danger and hardship to deliver unconventional solutions to complex problems.

SF Operator candidates now have access to a broader range of employment opportunities and locations:

• 1st Commando Regiment in Sydney or Melbourne
• Special Air Service Regiment in Perth
• 2nd Commando Regiment in Sydney

SF Engineers is now open to all Corps and all Services. The SF Engineer role suits technically minded individuals with strong problem-solving skills. Operating in agile and highly skilled teams, you’ll provide a rapidly deployable and specialised capability to neutralise CBRNE threats across the spectrum of Special Operations. SF Engineer candidates will serve at the Special Operations Engineer Regiment in Sydney.

Streamlined process

Our new streamlined process means candidates submit one application and undergo one recruitment process. In 2025, the Command is conducting one Special Forces Selection Course, inclusive of SF Operator, Engineer, Signaller and Medic candidates. You no longer need to apply to each unit separately and can apply for one or multiple roles depending on your base trade and where you are interested in serving.

Our high-performing teams come from diverse backgrounds and go beyond those who ‘fit the mould’. We’re seeking individuals who are physically fit, possess high levels of emotional intelligence and high technical and trade proficiency. If this is you, take action now to prepare and apply to join SOCOMD in 2025.

Get accurate information straight from the source – search “Join Special Operations” on the DPN or email your questions to ADFSSO (JoinSpecialOperations@defence.gov.au).

We look forward to receiving your EOI.

Lieutenant Colonel Adam Fardy, DSM
Commanding Officer/Chief Instructor
Australian Defence Force School of Special Operations