The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Open Day is on Saturday, 15 August 2026. Offering a unique opportunity to gain insights into the ADFA education and training experience, while exploring the diverse career opportunities in the Australian Defence Force.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from watching a Royal Australian Air Force flypast and military working dogs in action, to exploring virtual reality tours of a Navy frigate and submarine. There are also interactive cyber activities, opportunities to speak with Defence space practitioners, watch drone racing and fly a fast jet simulator.

With more than 70 interactive and static displays, it is a chance to explore Defence capabilities across the maritime, land, air, space and cyber domains

Attendance Notes:  ADFA Open Day is free and open to the public. Parking will not be available on the ADFA campus. Shuttle bus services will operate from Russell and Campbell Offices.

Quotes attributable to Commandant ADFA, Brigadier Troy Francis:

“This year marks the 40th anniversary of ADFA offering a unique combination of world-class education together with cutting-edge military and leadership training.

“ADFA Open Day gives prospective trainee officers a firsthand look at what is on offer at the Australian Defence Force Academy before they take their first step toward their career in the ADF. It’s also a chance for the broader community to gain a unique insight into life in the ADF.

“ADFA is a special place, built on a longstanding partnership with UNSW Canberra. We’re proud to be opening our doors and give people the opportunity to experience what makes ADFA, and a career in the ADF, so rewarding.”

Media Note

Media are invited to register their attendance. 

The following Defence personnel are available to interview:

• Brigadier Troy Francis, Commandant Australian Defence Force Academy (available prior to the event)
• Lieutenant Colonel William Hitchen, Commanding Officer ADFA (available on the day)

The full ADFA Open Day schedule of events and interactive displays is at: ADFA Open Day | UNSW Canberra.

Imagery/vision of the 2026 ADFA Open Day will be at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20262317

Imagery from the 2025 ADFA Open Day is at http://images.defence.gov.au/S20251985

Media Contacts

To arrange an interview or register attendance, please contact Defence Media at: media@defence.gov.au

Noise Alert

Several aircraft flypasts and rifle firing demonstrations (using blank ammunition) will occur during ADFA Open Day. Some noise may be heard by residents of Campbell and surrounding ACT suburbs. 

Weather permitting, multiple flypasts will take place between 10:30am and 2:30pm. Flypasts may include Royal Australian Air Force C-130 Hercules and F-35A Lightning II aircrafts.

All flying activities are subject to change, including short-notice cancellation, due to variables such as air traffic control, weather and operational requirements.

Safety, noise management and the environment are vital considerations in the planning and conduct of Defence flying activities.