The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA)

Combining Teaching & Research with Military Education

Learn from some of Australia’s brightest minds in education and research when you study at UNSW Canberra at ADFA. We are Australia's only academic institution with an integrated Defence focus.

We are committed to:

  • enhancing the intellectual edge of the Australian Defence Force
  • supporting the ADF Joint Professional Military Education program
  • developing future global leaders.

UNSW Canberra at ADFA specialises in high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate courses in all areas relating to military, strategic and defence studies. This means future leaders of the Navy, Army and Air Force can combine their military and leadership training with our world-class university programs and defence industry expertise.

Through our teaching and research we offer deep links to industry and government where careers are made. 

Study at ADFA

Study at ADFA

Our unique partnership with the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) dates back more than half a century. Future leaders of the Navy, Army and Air Force undertake military and leadership training while studying at one of the world’s top universities.

Find out more about your study options at ADFA here

Chief of Defence Forces parade at ADFA, 2015.

Our Defence Partnerships

Read more about some of our other Defence partnerships:

  • UNSW Canberra Launch on Northbourne: a collaborative workspace bringing together industry, government, and university to grow innovation and capability in defence and security
  • The UNSW Defence Research Institute: Forward-facing research at the frontier of science and technology. An initiative of UNSW’s 2025 Strategic Plan, headquartered at UNSW Canberra at ADFA
  • Hear stories of the Defence leaders who have studied at UNSW Canberra.