Civilian Applications



The first step to applying for RMC is to make a "Your Opportunities Unlimited" (YOU) Session booking. This can be done online via the Defence Jobs Application Tool or by calling 13 19 01. You will receive an information pack and you can then book an information session to find out more. Or if you are ready to proceed with your application, book in to attend a YOU Session at your nearest recruiting centre.

YOU Session

You will attend this at the Defence Force Recruiting Centre closest to you. Make sure you have photo ID on you (like a license or passport) and if you are not yet 18 bring a completed Underage Consent Form . Remember, information will be generic at this stage while the Recruiters assess your suitability for Officer Training. Stay focussed and feel free to ask any questions as you go through the session.

Aptitude Evaluation
You will undertake an evaluation to determine which position(s) may suit you. The Guide to Aptitude Testing for Joining The ADF provides some tips and examples of questions in the evaluation.

Medical Interview with a Nurse
You will have a brief medical interview with a nurse.

Information session
There will be a general information session on careers available within the ADF and lifestyle in the Army. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have at this stage.

Interview with a Careers Counsellor (CC)
After the Information Session, a CC will discuss the opportunities available to you based on the results of your aptitude testing. If you are assessed as suitable you will be invited to attend further evaluation at a later date. This will be an assessment day where you will undergo a psychological interview, a medical assessment and a Defence Interview. You could attend the assessment day within a week of the YOU Session, or several months later if there are only a few positions available, or the intake dates are some way into the future.

Defence Interview

It is extremely important that before you attend your Defence Interview you have researched both the Army and RMC. As with any interview, the more you prepare and can display your knowledge to the interviewer, the better your chance of success. General knowledge of Defence issues, the types of jobs you can do as an Army Officer and the type of training you will do at RMC are all useful areas to have an understanding of.

It would also be useful to read up on some ADF guidelines. Take a look at the ADF Harassment Policy, the ADF policy on non-medical use of drugs and the Defence Force Discipline Act.

You can research RMC in-depth on this website or learn more about the Army and wider ADF by visiting the Army online Open in new window or the Defence Jobs website Open in new window Make a list of potential questions and find the answers on these pages. You could also speak to a current Army Officer. This can be arranged by contacting your Defence Force Recruiter.

Tips for the Interview

  • Present yourself well and dress appropriately for a job interview as a potential Army Officer.
  • Speak clearly and fluently. Demonstrating self confidence is important.
  • Know your resume and be able to expand on it if asked.
  • Show interest and enthusiasm. You are applying for a challenging and exciting career so you should demonstrate you really want the job.
  • Don't be frightened to ask for clarification if unsure. This will show that your interest is genuine.

Army Officer Selection Board

The Selection Board consists of a series of activities designed to test aspects like leadership skills, teamwork and other individual abilities considered critical to being successful at RMC.

You will undergo a formal interview in front of a panel of Army officers and a psychologist. You will also participate in a range of challenging problem-solving exercises and leadership exercises.

You may also undergo a Physical Fitness Assessment on this day.

Tips for the Army Officer Selection Board

  • Dress and bearing are very important as first impressions count.
  • Don't try and find out what actually happens at the board. Candidates who are overly prepared generally do not fair well. Be confident in your own abilities and remember the board is looking for leadership, team spirit, problem solving, physical and academic abilities.
  • Relax and be yourself. The Board is looking for someone who is comfortable working in a team and naturally shows leadership potential.
  • Finally, a general knowledge of ADF issues and current affairs is helpful when engaging in group discussions. It does not necessarily mean the board will drill you on these in your personal interview.