Lyla Lindsey
The Australian Defence Force School of Special Operations (ADFSSO) is responsible for the selection and training of special forces units, including the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and the 1st and 2nd Commando Regiments. The selection process for the Australian Special Forces is considered one of the most challenging in the world, requiring candidates to demonstrate exceptional physical fitness, mental resilience, and the ability to perform under extreme conditions. Candidates must pass the Special Forces Entry Test (SFET) and complete a rigorous screening process that includes physical and mental challenges. To apply, individuals can submit an Expression of Interest Form and BFA Record to be considered for panelling. The Special Forces Assessment Program (SFAP) is held regularly throughout the year, providing multiple opportunities for candidates to join the Special Operations Command (SOCOMD).
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What You'll Learn
Selection process
The selection process to join the Australian Special Forces is one of the most difficult in the world. It involves a series of physical and mental challenges designed to test a candidate's readiness for selection.
The Australian Defence Force School of Special Operations (ADFSSO), based in Singleton, NSW, is responsible for conducting selection courses for the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and the 1st and 2nd Commando Regiments. The selection process typically includes the Special Forces Entry Test (SFET), a rigorous screening process that assesses a candidate's physical fitness, mental resilience, and ability to perform under extreme conditions.
To prepare for the SFET, candidates should focus on building their physical endurance, particularly in rucking (i.e., marching with a heavy pack). It is recommended to start with a flat-ground ruck march at a sustained pace with a pack weighing around 23 kg, gradually increasing the distance and pace over time. Once a minimum distance and pace are achieved, candidates can start integrating vertical gain into their training, adding small increments of 100 meters of vertical gain each week.
Nutrition also plays a crucial role in SFET preparation. Improving one's nutrition can be challenging, and it is often best done with the guidance of a skilled coach. Mental skills training is another important aspect of preparation, helping candidates develop the mental resilience required for the selection process and the Special Forces role.
In addition to the SFET, the Special Forces Assessment Program (SFAP) is held regularly throughout the year and includes the SFET, the Special Forces Diagnostic Assessment (SFDA) for specialists, and educational components to help candidates prepare for the Selection Course. The Selection Course is a 21-day course that serves as the initial stage of the Special Forces selection process.
Candidates who successfully pass the selection process and complete their training will be paid and will earn at least the salary based on General Entry: Non-technical entry.
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Training
Physical Training
Candidates are expected to possess exceptional physical fitness and endurance. This includes building endurance by rucking, which involves moving with a heavy pack over long distances. For example, you may start by training to move with a 23 kg pack at a pace of under 9:20 mins/km, aiming to sustain this for a minimum of 10 kilometres. As you progress, you can start integrating vertical gain into your program, gradually increasing the incline in small increments.
Mental Resilience
Mental toughness is just as important as physical fitness. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to perform under extreme conditions and handle high levels of stress, danger, and hardship. This includes possessing emotional intelligence and the mental resilience to make complex decisions in high-pressure situations.
Selection Course
The Australian Defence Force School of Special Operations (ADFSSO) conducts selection courses for the Special Air Service Regiment and the 1st and 2nd Commando Regiments. The selection process includes a 21-day selection course, followed by an advanced skills qualification course known as a Reinforcement Cycle. Only a few candidates successfully pass through each stage.
Parachute Training
The ADF Parachuting School provides parachute training for Special Operations Command. This training prepares candidates for real-world operations, as the Special Air Service Regiment's water operations troops are trained as assault swimmers dedicated to maritime special operations.
Special Forces Assessment Program (SFAP)
The Special Forces Assessment Program (SFAP) is a multi-day program held monthly, which includes the SFET, Special Forces Diagnostic Assessment (for specialists), and education on the Command's offer. This program provides an opportunity to assess your readiness for the Special Forces and gain insight into the demands of the role.
Initial Military Training
Upon successfully joining the Australian Special Forces, you will undergo Initial Military Training, where you will be paid while you train. This training will prepare you for your specific role within the Special Forces, whether it be as an Operator, Engineer, Signaller, or Medic.
The training process for the Australian Special Forces is designed to push candidates to their limits and identify those with the physical and mental fortitude to excel in one of the world's most elite military forces. It is a challenging journey that requires dedication, discipline, and a strategic approach to training.
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Physical fitness
To prepare for the physical demands of the Special Forces Entry Test (SFET), it is recommended that candidates focus on building endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. This includes incorporating rucking, or walking with a weighted pack, into your training regimen. For example, you might start by working on maintaining a pace of under 9:20 mins/km with a zone 2 heart rate on flat ground while carrying a pack weighing around 23 kg. Once you can sustain this pace for a minimum of 10 kilometers, you can begin to increase the weight of your pack and introduce vertical gain into your routine.
In addition to rucking, candidates should also focus on building overall strength and endurance. This may include activities such as running, swimming, and strength training. It is important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to avoid injury and build physical resilience.
Nutrition also plays a crucial role in physical fitness and can heavily influence the adaptations your body makes in response to training. Working with a skilled coach or nutritionist can help ensure you are fuelling your body adequately to support the physical demands of Special Forces training.
While physical fitness is essential, it is important to note that the Australian Special Forces selection process also places a strong emphasis on mental resilience and emotional intelligence. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to handle high-stress situations, make complex decisions, and work effectively as part of a team.
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Mental fitness
To prepare for the mental demands of the Special Forces Entry Test (SFET), candidates should focus on developing mental toughness and resilience. This can be achieved through immersive experiential training, which progressively immerses individuals in situations, problems, and adversity to develop skills and understanding through experience. Candidates should also consider seeking resources that offer a breakdown of the mental demands of the selection process, as well as strategies for training the mind to meet these demands.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in SFET preparation. Candidates should seek guidance from skilled coaches to optimise their nutrition and maximise the adaptations gained from training. Additionally, candidates can benefit from mental skills training alongside their physical workouts, incorporating this into their daily practices.
The selection process for Australia's Special Forces units is designed to push candidates to their limits, testing their mental and physical capabilities through highly demanding exercises and special operations. Candidates should be prepared for rigorous screening and a series of challenging physical and mental tasks. The process is highly challenging, with only a small percentage of candidates progressing through each stage.
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Application
The application process for the Australian Special Forces is a challenging journey that demands dedication, discipline, and a strategic approach. Here is a detailed guide on how to apply:
The first step is to ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. Applicants must be Australian citizens, at least 17 years old (with parental consent if under 18), and have completed Year 10 education or equivalent.
The Australian Defence Force School of Special Operations (ADFSSO) is responsible for the recruitment of Special Forces Operators, Engineers, Signallers, Medics, and Enablers. The ADFSSO seeks individuals who are physically fit, possess emotional intelligence, and have the required technical skills.
To apply, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) Form and a BFA Record. The EOI Form allows you to express your interest in specific roles and demonstrate your suitability. The BFA Record is a detailed document that outlines your background, qualifications, and skills. It is essential to provide accurate and comprehensive information in these forms.
The Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme allows external applicants to apply for SF Operator and SF Engineer roles. RAR members are now also eligible for these positions.
Preparation:
The Special Forces Entry Test (SFET) is a rigorous selection process designed to challenge candidates physically and mentally. It is one of the most demanding military training courses globally, and candidates must be exceptionally fit, mentally resilient, and capable of performing under extreme conditions.
Preparation for the SFET requires a dedicated training regime. Physical preparation should focus on building endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. This includes rucking (marching with a heavy pack) over long distances and integrating vertical gain into your workouts.
Mental preparation is equally crucial. Candidates should focus on developing mental resilience and the ability to handle stress and dangerous situations. Nutrition also plays a vital role in SFET preparation, and seeking guidance from a skilled coach can be beneficial.
Selection Course:
After submitting your application, the next step is the Special Forces Selection Course. This course includes the SFET and the Special Forces Diagnostic Assessment (SFDA) for specialists. The SFDA assesses candidates' technical proficiency in engineering, signalling, or medical roles.
The selection course is highly challenging, testing candidates' physical and mental limits. It includes a series of exercises designed to push candidates to their limits and evaluate their ability to perform in high-risk, hostile environments.
Candidates who successfully complete the selection course will be chosen for the Australian Special Forces, where they will undergo further specialized training.
The application process for the Australian Special Forces is designed to identify individuals with the necessary physical, mental, and technical skills to excel in this elite military force. It is a demanding journey that requires commitment and resilience. By preparing diligently and demonstrating your capabilities, you can increase your chances of success in joining this prestigious force.
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Frequently asked questions
The selection process to join the Australian Army’s Special Forces is considered one of the most difficult in the world. It involves the Special Forces Entry Test (SFET), a 21-day selection course, and an advanced skills qualification course. The SFET includes a series of physical and mental challenges designed to test a candidate’s readiness.
The physical demands of the selection process include building vertical gain while rucking. This means moving with a heavy pack over long distances and varied terrain. Candidates are expected to be able to move with a pack weighing around 23 kg at a pace under 9:20 mins/km for a minimum of 10 kilometers.
The mental demands of the selection process are rigorous. Candidates must demonstrate mental resilience and the ability to perform under extreme conditions. Nutrition also plays a crucial role in preparing for the selection process.
