Code of conduct

Youth Statement of Commitment

Defence is committed to keeping all youth safe and maintaining the wellbeing and best interests of youth who engage with the department.

This Code of Conduct aims to ensure everyone who participates in Defence activities understands what is expected of them and feels safe, respected, valued and treated equally.

Defence expects people who take part in its activities to display appropriate behaviour at all times, including the online environment such as on social media or in emails. Defence must ensure everyone taking part in its activities has seen, understood and agreed to follow the Code of Conduct, and that they understand the consequences of unacceptable behaviour.

Acceptable Behaviours

I will:

  • Treat everyone with respect
  • Participate in activities to the best of my ability and take full advantage of the opportunities provided to me.
  • Dress appropriately keeping in mind health, hygiene and safety.
  • Respect the property of individuals and Defence, and the privacy of other youth and adults.
  • Listen to the views of others and follow reasonable and clear instructions provided\ by Defence (or ADF Cadets) commanders, managers and supervisors.
  • Follow reasonable direction and comply with all Defence, Group/Service and subordinate level youth safe policies, procedures and practices as explained to me.
  • Complete all Defence Youth Protection Training provided to me.
  • Speak to a trusted adult, such as my parent, Defence supervisor or school teacher, if I am concerned for my safety or the safety of others.
  • Take responsibility for my own behaviour.

Unacceptable Behaviours

I will NOT:

  • Participate in, or encourage behaviour that endangers the health, safety and wellbeing of myself or my peers. This includes all forms of bullying, violence, discrimination, harassment and the use of inappropriate language (examples include swearing and sexual related comments).
  • Use electronic devices (for example mobile phones) without permission while in a Defence environment.
  • Smoke, consume alcohol or illicit drugs while participating in Defence activities.
  • Have inappropriate sexual contact (such as touching, hugging and kissing) with my peers or adults I have met in a Defence environment.
  • Take, send, post or request inappropriate, offensive or explicit photos, videos or text messages.

The Australian Air Force Cadets acknowledges this country and its traditional custodians.

We acknowledge and respect the spiritual relationship between the traditional custodians and this country which is inspired by language of songs, dance law and dream time stories over many thousands of years and we pay our respect to the elders who have passed into the dreaming, those here today, and those of tomorrow. May we continue to peacefully walk together in gratitude, respect and kindness in caring for this country and each other.