Special Forces soldiers are highly skilled soldiers that are trained and qualified in a range of advanced specialist weapons and equipment and can deploy to their area of operations over long distances using a wide range of insertion methods. They can operate in a variety of demanding operational situations conducted in complex terrain. The Special Forces soldier is mentally tough, quick thinking

As a Special Forces SAS Trooper or Commando you will become part of one of Australia's highly respected Special Forces units.

The designated Special Forces units within Special Operations Command are:

1. Special Air Service Regiment.
2. 1 Commando Regiment.
3. 2 Commando Regiment (formerly known as 4RAR (CDO)).

As part of one of these units you will contribute to the safety and security of Australia and its National interests through the conduct of special operations. Special operations are measures and activities conducted by specially trained, organised and equipped forces to achieve military, political, economic or psychological objectives.

Special Forces may operate in any area or region of the world where Australia's national interests may be served. Operations within Australia are possible, although offshore operations are more likely. You may be required to participate in the 'Government War on Terrorism' and may be called upon to deploy on both combat and peace enforcement operations around the world. In recent times, Special Forces soldiers have deployed on operations to a wide range of locations including East Timor, Iraq, Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands.

One of the principal methods of rapidly deploying as a Special Forces soldier into an area of operations is parachuting. This requires you to jump from an aircraft by day or night and onto land or into water. Therefore, it is essential that you volunteer to undertake military parachute training if you are considering Special Forces as a career.

As a Special Forces soldier, you will also have the opportunity to participate in a range of amphibious operations which include activities such as operating high speed operational watercraft, parachuting into water and operating with Australian Navy ships. In order to safely participate in this range of amphibious activities, it is essential that you are a proficient swimmer.

Special Forces soldiers are expected to operate in different size groups or teams from small fighting patrols to a larger force element and regularly operate with Special Forces soldiers from other countries. Therefore, Special Forces soldiers are required to have good interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work effectively in a team environment, in particular, when tired and when operating under adverse conditions. These adverse conditions include operating in an outdoors environment in all terrain, in extremes of climatic and weather conditions for prolonged periods of time, and in isolation from hygiene facilities, comforts or regular social contact.

Special Forces soldiers also require the ability to undertake new tasks quickly, respond effectively to challenges and to adapt to different environments including the ability to operate effectively and without signs of undue stress, panic or excessive fear when:

1. exposed to heights;
2. in dark confined spaces;
3. in the ocean, in deep water or in a surf zone; and
4. alone or at night, or both, in all of the situations listed above.

Special Forces soldiers work hard and for long hours, therefore; you must be willing to work long and irregular hours when required and have a demonstrated ability to balance professional and personal responsibilities, in particular your family life. A range of support services are available through the Defence Community Organisation to assist the families of those personnel serving in Special Forces units.

Special Forces soldiers also contribute to Australia's counter-terrorism capability. Selected Special Forces soldiers are trained in Counter-Terrorist tactics, and specialist weapons and equipment. These personnel are employed in Special Operations Command Counter Terrorism sub-units. Employment in one of these sub- units provides you with the opportunity to contribute to the safety and National security of Australia and its interests.

Being a Special Forces soldier is no ordinary career. It will take you beyond the limits of conventional soldiering, challenging you to perform at a level beyond anything you will have encountered in your civilian life. You are likely to learn more about yourself and what you are capable of, both physically and mentally, than you would have thought possible. However, being a Special Forces soldier is a rewarding career.