Special Forces



Special Forces are the combat element of Special Operations Forces that conduct Special Operations. Special Operations Command contains the main elements of Special Operation Forces, including the units that contain Special Forces within the Australian Army.

Special Forces play a vital role in the Special Operations Command mission to provide ready and relevant forces to conduct special operations in support of Australia's national interests.

Special Forces (SF) are soldiers and officers who have completed all selection program requirements and have been selected to serve with the Special Air Service (SAS) or Commando units

Did you Know?

The only method of direct recruitment into Special Forces is as a Commando via the Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme (SFDRS)?

All of the methods of serving in Special Forces are:

  • General Enlistment (Officer and soldier)
  • General Enlistment - Reserves (Officer and soldier)
  • Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme - (ARA and ARes Soldier only)
  • Current serving member
  • Overseas lateral enlistment.

Special Forces InformationEmployment Specifications


Selection Information

Job / Employment Details

Entry / Enlistment

Employment Location & Civil Accreditation

Pay & Allowances

Training - Information on Initial Training and Commando Reinforcement

The Employment Specifications (ES) for the employment categories of the SF are at the Manual of Army Employments (DefWeb only).

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