For many in the Australian Defence Force, posting season is a familiar rhythm. Orders come through, bags get packed, and life shifts, sometimes across the country, sometimes across roles. It’s part of the service. But it’s also a moment that invites reflection.
Maybe this move feels different. Maybe you’re wondering how many more relocations you’ve got in you. Or maybe you’re just starting to think about what life could look like outside the uniform.
Whatever your situation, posting season is more than a change of scenery, it’s an opportunity to take stock of your career and your future.
At Churchill Education, we’ve worked with thousands of current and former ADF members who’ve asked the same question:
How do I turn my Defence experience into something that opens doors in the civilian world?
The answer is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
RPL is a process that assesses the skills and knowledge you’ve gained through your service and maps them to nationally recognised qualifications.
No essays. No classrooms. Just a straightforward way to get the recognition you deserve.
Whether you’re planning your transition or just keeping your options open, RPL gives you flexibility. It’s about future-proofing your career and making sure your hard-earned experience translates in the civilian world.
Here are some of the most popular and relevant qualifications for Defence personnel—based on the roles, responsibilities, and leadership you’ve already demonstrated:
Leadership & Management
You’ve led teams, managed operations, and made decisions under pressure. These qualifications reflect that:
These are highly valued across industries—from corporate to government—and show you know how to lead, plan, and deliver.
Work Health and Safety (WHS)
Safety is second nature in Defence. Your experience can be recognised with:
These qualifications are essential in industries like construction, logistics, mining, and government.
Security and Risk Management
If you’ve worked in security, intelligence, or operational planning, these qualifications align with your skillset:
They’re ideal for careers in corporate security, emergency management, and consultancy roles.
Government
ADF members often work within complex government systems. These qualifications reflect your understanding of public sector operations:
They’re especially useful if you’re looking to move into federal, state, or local government roles post-service.
Posting season already has you thinking about change. Whether it’s a new base, a new role, or a new direction entirely, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your experience and invest in your future.
RPL isn’t about starting over, it’s about building on what you’ve already achieved.
So if you’re on the move, let Churchill Education help you move forward with confidence. We’ll guide you through the RPL process, match your experience to the right qualifications, and make sure your service gets the recognition it deserves.
Your experience counts. Let’s make it official.
