Navy
The greatest stories come from the smallest of moments, the people you meet, the bonds you make and the support you bring to those who need it most.
Defending our country and people
Alongside the Army and Air Force, the Navy is responsible for defending Australia, its coastline, its shipping lanes and its citizens. This includes protecting our waters from illegal fishing, drug running and illegal immigration, and contributing to regional security. The Navy also supports global interests by providing maritime patrol and response, maintaining a strategic strike capability, protecting shipping, offshore territories and resources, as well as collecting and evaluating maritime intelligence.
Keeping the oceans safe for shipping
On a day-to-day basis, the Navy provides services that keep the waters safe for shipping and professional or recreational seagoing. These include maritime search and rescue service, hydrographic surveys for navigational purposes, anti-piracy operations, meteorological support operations and maritime escort duties.
Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Missions
As well as defending our nation, the Navy is on permanent standby to participate in a broad range of operations in Australia and overseas. These include supporting international peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, and helping communities affected by natural disasters such as fire, flood and earthquake.
What we do
Navy history
Traditions we honour
You’ll become part of time-honoured traditions that serve as a reminder of our rich history. They are important in building the Navy’s ‘esprit de corps’ – our spirit of comradeship and our commitment to each cause.
- The salute, dating back to the Middle Ages when knights used to raise their visors as both a greeting and a symbol of mutual respect, belief, and trust.
- The giving of medals to recognise outstanding effort and gallantry, or involvement in significant campaigns or missions.
- The Colours ceremony when the Australian White Ensign and Australian National Flag are hoisted at 8 am and lowered at sunset (though the Australian White Ensign is flown 24 hours a day at sea).
- The Ceremonial Sunset, which is one of the oldest and most significant of Navy ceremonies, lowering the Australian White Ensign to conclude days of special importance.
Real stories
Life in the navy
Discover what life is like in the Navy as a submariner
Submariner Training
Meet our submariners
Electronics Engineer Submariner
Lead a team that maintains advanced combat, self-defence, sensor, communications and intelligence systems, working in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
Ways to enter role
Officer Entry: ADFAOfficer Entry: GraduateOfficer Entry: Undergraduate
Electronics Technician Submariner
Maintain underwater sensors, navigation aids and weapons systems in this technical trade role.
Ways to enter role
General Entry: Technical
Hospitality Services Assistant Submariner
Deliver hospitality services in one of the most unique workplaces and be a part of submarine operations.
Ways to enter role
General Entry: Non-Technical
Nuclear-Powered Submarines
World class capability
Join the Navy at a pivotal moment in history. You may start out crewing a Collins Class submarine and transition to our nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
Nuclear-powered submarines are a game-changing capability. These state-of-the-art platforms, with superior stealth, speed and range, meet Australia’s long-term defence needs.
Operating from bases around Australia.
Weapons and Sensors Operator
Use sensors, radars and combat data systems to provide tactical recommendations about potential threats.
Ways to enter role
General Entry: Non-Technical
Maritime Warfare Officer
Oversee the control, navigation systems, and maritime safety of Navy ships.
Ways to enter role
Officer Entry: ADFAOfficer Entry: OfficerOfficer Entry: Undergraduate
Maritime Warfare Officer Submariner
Oversee the control, navigation systems, and maritime safety of Navy submarines.
Ways to enter role
Officer Entry: ADFAOfficer Entry: OfficerOfficer Entry: Undergraduate
Aviation Technician
Maintain, trouble-shoot and repair state-of-the-art helicopters or unmanned aerial vehicles in this exciting aviation role.
Ways to enter role
General Entry: Technical
Communication Networks Operator Submariner
Be the subsurface communications link operating radios and IT systems to exchange top-secret information onboard submarines.
Ways to enter role
General Entry: Non-Technical
Receive world-class training that sets you up for life.
Learn what Navy ranks are and how to identify them
Support programs to help you start your career