The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) will hold the 2026 Chief of the Defence Force (CDF) Parade on Saturday, 21 February.

The CDF Parade marks the completion of Year One Familiarisation Training (YOFT) for 375 new Midshipmen and Officer Cadets at ADFA.

This year, ADFA proudly marks 40 years of developing the Australian Defence Force’s future leaders, since its establishment in 1986.

Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, will review and address the Parade.

The parade will feature a flypast by a P-8A Poseidon aircraft, operated by Number 12 Squadron.

Parade attendance is by invitation only. Members of the public are encouraged to watch the event live online.

Noise alert: 

A P-8A Poseidon aircraft, operated by Number 12 Squadron, will conduct flypasts between 10:00am and 10:10am. 

Flying activities are subject to variables including air traffic control, weather, and operational availability. As such, flypasts and displays may be subject to cancellation at short notice.

Noise reduction and the environment considerations are central to planning and conducting military flying. Information on aircraft noise and current flying activities is available at www.defence.gov.au/aircraftnoise or by calling 1300 DEFENCE (1300 333 362).

Media note

Media are invited to attend the parade with prior approval. To arrange access, please contact Defence Media.

Commandant of the Australian Defence Force Academy, Brigadier Troy Francis, is available for interview prior to the CDF Parade. Please contact Defence Media to arrange an interview.

Media Contacts
Defence Media: media@defence.gov.au

For more information, visit the Defence Aircraft Noise website or call 1300 DEFENCE (1300 333 362).