Naval Ensign (Still considered as the British navy flag going all the way back to the Napoleonic wars (1907–1956)
Military unit
The Australian Navy Cadets (ANC) is a youth development organisation supported by the Royal Australian Navy, with a focus on the maritime domain. The organisation conducts activities, both on land and in water, with key objectives including building self-confidence and developing teamwork and leadershipskills.[1]
The program, which compromises of 81 training ships and about 2,600 cadets nationwide, is available to all young Australians between the ages of 12 and 18.[1]
Established in the early 1900s, the organisation received official recognition in 1910 with the passing of the Naval Defence Act.[2] Before 1973, the Royal Australian Navy and the Navy League of Australia shared administrative duties for the group, which was then known as the Australian Sea Cadet Corps.
The organisation was renamed the Naval Reserve Cadets after the Navy assumed full control of it in 1973. In 2000, the organisation was renamed "Australian Navy Cadets" at the recommendation of an Australian Government review - "Cadets The Future."[3]
In November 2024, the Australian Navy Cadets' Training Ship Mersey was renamed Training Ship Sheean in honour of Ordinary Seaman Edward "Teddy" Sheean, VC.[4] The name commemorates Sheean's actions during World War II.
Boys Naval Brigades (Victoria), 1901–1911
Coburg Boys' Naval Brigade c.1908
The Boys Naval Brigades were the earliest youth naval organization in Australia. This organisation was run in conjunction with the Church of England. In 1901, Chief Gunner Robert Kearns of the Victorian Navy pioneered the Boys Naval Brigade movement, forming the first group near Swan Island, Port Phillip. Soon after, in 1903, the second group was formed in Ballarat.[5] The Boys Naval Brigade was disbanded in 1911, when the government established compulsory training from 1 July 1911, resulting in its members joining the Navy-led Australian Naval Cadet Corps.
Australian Naval Cadet Corps, 1907–1950
In March 1907, recruitment for the Australian Navy's Australian Naval Cadet Corps began, with its activities commencing in July that year. The ANC Corps actively operated until 1911 when the Government's Compulsory Training legislation transferred them into the newly created RANR (M) Militia, where they continued training throughout the First World War. After the war, the ANC Corps was re-established, and, in 1929, compulsory training of the ANC Corps ceased. Once again in 1939, when the Second World War began, the ANC Corps deferred training as all Naval personnel were needed in the fight. The organisation had resumed its efforts after the war.[5]
Navy League Sea Cadet Corps NLSCC, 1920–1950
In 1920, a second private Sea Cadet body was formed following the formation of the third Navy League Branch in New South Wales. This NSW Branch established the Navy League Sea Cadet Corps for young boys. The NLSCC operated in parallel with the ANC Corps, which was re-established after the war. During the 1920s, the NLSCC expanded, with other states forming Navy League branches along with their own Navy League Sea Cadet units.
Navy League Sea Cadets at Schnapper Island c.1937
Unlike the ANC Corps, which had halted operations during the Second World War, the private NLSCC remained operational but was reduced in units as many volunteer trainers had enlisted to serve in the war. The Royal Australian Navy recognised the NLSCC's efforts, which, up until now, operated with no assistance from the Navy. Negotiations commenced with the Navy League regarding future support; however, as the Australian Navy League was a branch of the United Kingdom's Navy League, this was not possible. To resolve this problem, all branches of the Australian Defence Force were merged into the Australian Body, the Navy League of Australia, renaming its cadets the Australian Sea Cadet Corps.[5]
RANR Cadets, 1950–1973
The RANR Cadets ran alongside the Australian Sea Cadet Corps. The program was small compared to its counterpart, with roughly 300 cadets.
Australian Sea Cadet Corps ASCC, 1950–1973
The Australian Sea Cadet Corps, now supported by the Navy, expanded rapidly under the leadership of its volunteer ex-service trainers. By 1970 the organisation had reached 2,500 cadets. The Royal Australian Navy expressed concerns about the increasing number of cadets and the cost of maintaining them. ASCC took responsibility for the cost, and by late 1972 the group had 2,000 members.
Representatives from the Navy League and the RAN discussed their shared concerns in 1972 on the rising costs of managing and sustaining the ASCC program. Eventually, the RAN and Navy League decided that the Navy would be solely in charge of training the 2,000-strong ASCC and 300-strong ANC. Under the new Defence law, the ANC and the ASCC cadets united into the newly formed Naval Reserve Cadets (NRC). The Navy League was given time to restructure its ASCC in the event that the Navy decided to stop training cadets, under an agreement with the Australian Commonwealth Naval Board (ACNB). The ASCC members of the Navy League were transferred into the new Naval Reserve Cadets (NRC) of the RAN in January 1973.[5]
Dueling Movements
De Laat observes that from 1863 to 1952, young seamanship was fostered by two stands of the movement, a citizenship Sea Cadet movement, and a Navy-led, reservist-led organisation. Both strands under various bodies competed for the same resources and generally sought the same goal - that of preparing young people for naval service. The disparate schemes were understandable pre-federation due to the fractured nature of colonial government. Post-federation, the duel strands were locked in circular arguments over similar aims for competing resources. The presence of community-based naval organisations, while little threat to the Navy's resources, was at times perceived as a risk to the Navy's reputation.[6]
Naval Reserve Cadets NRC, 1973–2000
Problems sprouted early in the newly conjoined Naval Reserve Cadets, when the 21st Prime Minister of Australia, Gough Whitlam, cancelled all cadet activities and withdrew ADF support for cadets in 1975.[7] The Navy League's agreement with the Australian Commonwealth Naval Board was honoured by the government, which informed the Navy League and gave time for the reorganisation of the ASCC structure. The end of 1975 saw the Whitlam government voted out, and Malcolm Fraser elected the 22nd Prime Minister of Australia. The cadet situation was reviewed, and the Fraser government reinstated cadet training. In 2002, the name was changed back to Australian Naval Cadets - the original name of the 1907 Australian Navy Cadet Corps.
Aims
Training
The Australian Navy Cadets provide nautical training that involves primarily water-based activities. Navigation, communications, first aid, drill, maritime history, and firearms proficiency are among the skills taught. With its program, the ANC attempts to offer the following:[8]
develop an interest in the Navy, its tradition and moral values,
encourage cadets to continue military or community service,
give cadets a foundation of military knowledge and discipline,
develop the qualities of leadership, self-discipline, self-reliance, and initiative, and
provide training that may later assist in achieving competencies required during Navy induction training.
Purpose
Australian Navy Cadets is a youth personal development program conducted by the Australian Navy in collaboration with the community. Its goal is to develop the individual, the community, and the Australian Navy in order to benefit the nation.[8]
Values
Remembrance Day ceremony Kings Park, Western Australia November 11, 2012.
The Australian Navy Cadets adopts the values of the Australian Navy (Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity, and Excellence) to empower youth to achieve their potential.[8]
Structure
The organisational structure of the ANC is based on three hierarchical levels: national, flotilla, and training ship.
The country (Australia) is split into regions, and the regions have flotillas, which have several training ship units. Inside the training ships are Staff and Cadets, who take on positions to run the training ship accordingly every parade night or weekend camp.
National
Director General Australian Navy Cadets
The position of Director General Australian Navy Cadets (DGANC) is responsible to CN, through the Deputy Chief of Navy (DCN), and to CJC, through the Head of Joint Services Support Division, for the following responsibilities:
delivery of a strategically based, productive, and cohesive ANC program designed to enhance the cadet experience and encourage greater youth participation in the ANC
provision of specialist advice to the RAN and JSSD on matters relating to ANC organisational structures, policy, governance, personnel, administrative procedures, training of personnel, safety management and oversight of ANC resources
liaison with the Defence organisation and other external agencies.
ensuring ANC policies, procedures, and practices align with the DYSF
conducting annual reviews of youth-facing positions and WWCC positions within DGANC and provide any updates to DNWM for annotation in PMKeyS.
DGANC chairs the ANC Senior Leadership Group (ANCSLG) and the ANC CadetSafe Board.
The current DGANC (as of July 2024) is CDRE David Greaves, RAN.
Director Australian Navy Cadets
The position of Director Australian Navy Cadets (DANC) is responsible for the day-to-day management of the ANC Directorate, including the management of all RAN and Australian Public Service staff allocated to the ANC Directorate.
DANC through DGANC is responsible for:
provision of timely advice to the RAN and Government on ANC issues of representation, policy, resources, safety, and reputation management
management and governance of Commonwealth financial resources allocated for ANC support IAW the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act)
command liaison with Defence and other external agencies
ANC policy coordination and promulgation.
The current DANC (as of July 2024) is CMDR Mark Cohayney, RAN.
National Commander Australian Navy Cadets
The position of National Commander Australian Navy Cadets (NCANC) is responsible through the DGANC, to CN and HJSSD for the following:
the safe and effective delivery of the ANC youth program IAW the guidance provided by the DYSF and supporting documentation
for the recruitment, effective leadership and management of ANC members in accordance CN direction and the supporting guidance provided within YOUTHPOLMAN Parts 1 and 2, the YOUTH HQ website, and this publication
The current NCANC (as of July 2024) is CAPT Peter Alderson, ANC.
Flotilla
Flotillas are groups of training ships (TS), each commanded by a Flotilla Commander (FLOTCOM), and supported by a small flotilla HQ staff of Unit Support Officers (USO). Flotillas draw support from the Functional Directorate staff within National ANC HQ and Director Flotillas (DFLOT) personnel.
The current flotillas and their Flotilla Commanders (as of July 2024) are:
Flotilla Name
Flotilla Commander
Motto
Attack Flotilla
LCDR Lara Rice, ANC
"Force in the North"
Daring Flotilla
LCDR Chris Moyle, ANC
"We Stand As One"
Kellatie Flotilla
LCDR Michelle Montgomery, ANC
"To Serve"
Lonsdale Flotilla
CMDR Lisa Foley, ANC
"Wisdom Is Strength"
Moreton Flotilla
LCDR AJ Hughes, ANC
"Strong And Steady"
Taipan Flotilla
LCDR Matt Neville, ANC
"Swift And Sure"
Torrens Flotilla
LCDR Pieter Scott, ANC
"Faith And Fortitude"
Waratah Flotilla
LCDR Connor Boesel, ANC
"Advance Together"
Westralia Flotilla
CMDR Spike Jones, ANC
"Faithful And Bold"
Gallipoli Flotilla
LCDR Max Condon, ANC
"The Fighting Spirit"
Training ship
Training ships operate throughout many locations in Australia and are attached to a flotilla among other TS units. Each TS is commanded by a Commanding Officer (CO) who holds the rank of LEUT. The CO is often supported by an Executive Officer (XO) who holds the rank of SBLT. Some training ships also have Training Officers (TO) and a Whole Ship's Coordinator (WSC). The number of adult members and cadets can vary considerably, dependent on local circumstances.
Most training ships have a division(s). A division is a group of cadets, normally led by a senior cadet such as a CDTPO or CDTCPO. The ANC division system:
provides constructive ANC (Australian Navy Cadets) guidance toward career progression
facilitates effective two-way communication between all levels of the ANC
promotes teamwork and positive morale
supports and assists individuals in resolving intra-unit and interpersonal problems
The Cadet Youth Development Continuum acts as a framework that guides the cadet development program. The program aims to develop a cadet’s personal qualities and life skills: resilience, teamwork, confidence, loyalty, respect, and a sense of service to others.
Category Program
The ANC offers three categories, which are aligned with the RAN and its many roles. These categories are Maritime Engineering, Maritime Operations, and Maritime Support. Cadets who reach the rank of Able Seaman are expected to have completed one of these categories. Category badges are awarded on completion of the category's workbook.
Maritime Engineering
The Maritime Engineering category develops cadets in the basic principles of engineering in the maritime environment. A cadet will gain an appreciation of the mechanical and electrical systems used in watercraft and in larger naval vessels.
Maritime Operations
The Maritime Operations category develops cadets with an interest and ability in seamanship and general mariner skills.
Maritime Support
The Maritime Support category develops cadets with an interest in support functions, including medical, catering, hospitality, supply chain, stores, and administration functions.
Elective Program
Electives are optional courses that give cadets the chance to specialise in one or more areas of interest and advance their present level of ability. A cadet will typically select an elective that piques their interest or is in line with the ANC category they have selected.
Cadets of all ranks are given the option to choose as many of these courses as they wish. On completion, elective badges are awarded. Elective badges have three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold.
These elective badges are velcroed onto a black brassard worn on the DPNU. Cadets can sew on a maximum of three badges onto the cuff of their right arm for the ceremonial uniform (S3/W3).
Promotion
Every ANC rank has a workbook that provides cadets with the knowledge and abilities required to advance to the next rank.
Promotion to ranks of Cadet Seaman and Cadet Able Seaman only requires the completion of the core Skills Development Package (SDP) and the promotional checklist, the checklist includes skills ranging from drill to general unit activities. The only exception for this is that promotion to Cadet Able Seaman also requires completion of a category SDP being either Maritime Engineering, Maritime Operations, and Maritime Support.
Promotion to ranks of Cadets Leading Seaman and above requires a promotional board which is held at a unit level for promotion to Cadet Leading Seaman, Flotilla level for Cadet Petty Officers and a National level for Chief Petty Officers and Cadet Warrant Officers.
The main goals of the Cadet exchanges are to spread friendships, kindness, pleasure, cultural experiences, and knowledge about new places and the operations of other Cadet organisations.
International sea exchange cadets from Australia (left) and Canada (right) in the USA.
Every Cadet traveling on an exchange is escorted by adult staff members.
National activities are fully funded by the Defence who arrange the activities, land and air travel, accommodation, and food.
Annual National Camp
Cadets are given the opportunity to attend a week-long National Camp at a RAN Shore Establishment such as HMAS Cerberus.
Activities that may be included on a national camp are:
Visit a Navy warship or submarine
Fire-fighting and smoke walk
Target shooting
Survival at Sea
Leadership & teamwork challenges
Rock wall climbing
Navy helicopter flights
Drone flying
Power boating
Sail training
Defence careers presentation
Annual National Competitions
A national regatta and shooting competition is hosted every year for cadets across Australia. The teams from each Cadet Unit compete in these events to test their abilities and training. These tournaments evaluate the abilities and activities that the Navy Cadets learn during the year.
Flotilla and unit activities
Flotilla and unit-based activities are among the more basic and frequent events in the Australian Navy Cadet program. Flotillas can offer a variety of events for cadets in any of the training ships situated in their flotilla. Training ships are also able to host their own activities solely for cadets inside their unit. A training ship will always host a 'Parade Night' once a week on a select day. The schedule of a parade night can vary from TS to TS but will normally have a Colours Ceremony (raising of the flag), Drill Training, Lessons, Action Based Learning (ABLs), Stand Easy (a time to eat), and a Sunset Ceremony (lowering of the flag).
Powerboating
The Australian Navy Cadets teaches the skills required to operate small powerboats safely, including weather awareness, basic navigation, and seamanship knowledge.[22]
Several opportunities and experiences related to sailing are offered by the Australian Navy Cadets. Cadets can learn to sail at their unit, take part in sailing weekends at one of the Maritime Training Centers, operate a dinghy, and compete against other cadets in regattas.
The ANC offers a comprehensive firearms safety training program using .22 calibre rifles (Bruno CZ452). Cadets learn how to handle a rifle safely before participating in a 'live fire' at a rifle range.[24]
Ranks and uniforms
The uniforms of the Australian Navy Cadets are based on those of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), with only a few differences between the two. Unlike the RAN, the ANC's shoulder flashes and SRIs (Soft Rank Insignia) read "AUSTRALIAN NAVY CADETS" in place of the RAN's "AUSTRALIA." Another significant difference is in the officer insignia. Staff of the ANC display wavy laces, while RAN officers have straight laces. This difference originates from the Royal Australian Naval Volunteer Reserve. CDTPOs and above are not authorised to wear the Senior Sailor style of uniform that the Royal Australian Navy possesses for various reasons, instead conforming to the Junior Sailor's uniform.
A Defence Approved Helper (DAH) is a volunteer who isn't a part of the Australian Navy Cadets or the Australian Defence Force.
Example of use: Mr Robert Rooney, DAH
Speciality insignia
Category badges
Maritime Engineering
Maritime Operations
Maritime Support
Elective badges
Cooking
First Aid
Musician
Physical Fitness
Powerboating
Sailing
Skill at Arms
Bridge Operations
Drone Flying
Robotics
Awards
Award
Staff
Cadet
Years Service
Notes
Personal Efficiency Badge
All Ranks
All Ranks (except RCT)
Completion of set qualification criteria
personal readiness with 12 month renewal
Staff (Silver Badges with Gold Wheel)
Cadet (Silver Badge with Silver Wheel)
ACT Completion Certificate
N/A
All Ranks eligible
Completion of an ACT specialisation
Differs per flotilla
Long Service & Good Conduct Stripe
N/A
All Ranks (except WO & MIDN)
Staff
(1 for every 4 years of Service) (1 for 4 years service as a cadet) (1 for every 4 years service in the RAN or RANR) (maximum of 3 stripes) Cadet (1 stripe for every year of service) (maximum of 3 stripes)
The medal recognises commendable achievement or commitment to duty in a non-combative context. It is awarded to members of the Australian Defence Force and certain other people for example, Defence Force chaplains.
The cross recognises exceptional dedication to duty or outstanding achievement in skills or judgement in a non-combative context. It is awarded to members of the Australian Defence Force and certain other people such as members of philanthropic organisations.
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