New ADF participation targets, medical training announced under Defence First Nations Commitment

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By: Robert Dougherty
Participants of the Saltwater Leadership Program sit around the campfire during the saltwater leadership program at Baniyala, Northern Territory. Photo: LSIS Lauren Pugsley

Defence has announced the release of the Defence First Nations Commitment, developing First Nations-led Mental Health First Aid training and commits to increasing First Nations participation across both the Australlian Defence Force and APS to five percent by 2030.

Defence has announced the release of the Defence First Nations Commitment, developing First Nations-led Mental Health First Aid training and commits to increasing First Nations participation across both the Australlian Defence Force and APS to five percent by 2030.

The commitment establishes a clear enterprise-wide framework to strengthen outcomes with First Nations peoples and enhance Defence’s organisational capability. It also outlines a long-term approach to supporting First Nations peoples to join Defence, to thrive while they are in Defence and to continue to live fulfilling lives.

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Structured around four pillars – Employment and Education; Inclusion and Reconciliation; Health, Wellbeing and Truth-telling; and Economic Empowerment.

 
 

The commitment outlines defined actions and milestones to strengthen First Nations participation, wellbeing and economic opportunity.

Practical actions under the commitment include increasing First Nations participation across both the ADF and APS to five percent by 2030.

Defence will also continue to deliver against the Indigenous Procurement Policy, contributing to the economic participation of First Nations businesses within the Defence supply chains.

The commitment aligns with national priorities, including the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, the National Defence Strategy and the Defence Culture Blueprint.

In the commitment’s foreword, Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty and Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston said the commitment reflects Defence’s responsibility to take sustained and practical action to close the gap.

“Defence recognises the enduring contribution of First Nations peoples, who have long protected Country and served Australia in times of peace and war.”

“Their knowledge, service and continuing connection to Country strengthen Defence capability.

“As we progress on this journey, we remain committed to listening and learning from First Nations peoples; engaging respectfully and taking practical action.

“Defence recognises meaningful progress is achieved through genuine collaboration, a deep respect for the knowledge and wisdom of First Nations peoples and communities, and a willingness to learn from past shortcomings.”

Robert Dougherty

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.

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