Must commence in Term 3 of Year 8, with one-year minimum commmitment.
Cadets are involved in numerous outdoor experiences including abseiling, hiking, high ropes, navigation, drill, first aid, etc.
Australian Army Cadets seeks to build key attributes within youth by instilling a sense of:
- Identity – Cadets wear the uniform of the Australian Army, with Cadet insignia
- Purpose – Cadets participate in community remembrance services and assist and help develop junior Cadets as part of leadership
- Belonging – Cadets organise and lead activities and, through their leadership group, have a strong voice in the development of the program
As part of the program Cadets participate in numerous services including:
- Burwood Anzac Service
- Burwood Sandakan Memorial
- Burwood National Servicemen’s Memorial
- Burwood Remembrance Service
- MLC School ANZAC Service
- MLC School Remembrance Service
Home Training
Home Training occurs weekly at MLC School. During the course of Home Training every Cadet will learn:
- Radio Conduct
- Knots
- Mapping
- Navigation
- Drill
- Camp Craft
- First Aid
- Field Hygiene
Home training forms the foundation for cadets skills that will then be implemented at Annual Field Exercise (camp).
Rank Promotion Courses
MLCSACU courses are structured leadership development programs designed to prepare cadets for increasing levels of responsibility within their unit. Each course aligns with a specific rank – such as Corporal, Sergeant, or Cadet Under Officer – and builds on the leadership, instructional, and field skills required at that level.
Why do a promotion course?
Promotion courses are an opportunity for Cadets to:
- Develop Leadership Skills: Learn how to lead peers, manage teams, and support junior cadets both in the field and during structured training
- Build Confidence and Responsibility: Gain real-world experience in public speaking, decision-making, and mentoring
- Advance in Rank: Promotion is not automatic; completing a course is one part of a merit-based process that includes demonstrated performance, conduct, and the needs of the unit
- Enhance Life Skills: Communication, teamwork, time management, and resilience developed on course are highly transferable to school, work, and future careers
- Contribute to the Unit: Senior cadets play a vital role in shaping unit culture, delivering training, and supporting the development of younger members
Junior Leadership Courses
RECRUIT COURSE
The Recruit Course is the entry-level training program for new Cadets joining the MLCSACU. It introduces Cadets to the core skills, values, and expectations of the program, laying the foundation for future participation and progression.
JUNIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER (JNCO) PROMOTION COURSE
The JNCO Promotion Course is the first leadership training step in the MLCSACU, designed to prepare Cadets for their initial promotion into a junior leadership role. Lance Corporals help lead small teams, assist with training delivery, and play a vital role in the day-to-day function of their platoon.
Senior Leadership Courses
SERGEANTS (SGT) PROMOTION COURSE
The SGTs Promotion Course is a merit-based leadership development program within the MLCSACU. It is designed to prepare Cadets for the responsibilities of senior leadership roles by developing their skills in instruction, communication, discipline, and mentoring. Cadets are assessed across key areas including leadership in the field, theoretical knowledge, initiative, teamwork, and attitude.
Completion of the course does not guarantee promotion, but successful candidates may be considered for appointment based on performance, conduct, and unit requirements.
CADET UNDER OFFICER (CUO) PROMOTION COURSE
The CUO Promotion Course represents the highest levels of leadership development within the MLCSACU. This course is designed for experienced senior Cadets who have already demonstrated strong leadership, initiative, and instructional capability in previous roles.
Promotion to CUO or WO is not automatic – it is merit-based, determined through performance on course, demonstrated conduct within the unit, and the availability of positions.
Elective Courses
Elective courses offer cadets the opportunity to explore specialist skills outside the core promotion pathway. These may include:
- Medics - First Aid
- Signals and Communications
- Training and Operations
- Public Relations
- Unit Band
Why Do an Elective Course?
- Broaden Skills and Interests: Electives allow Cadets to explore areas they’re passionate about or want to improve in
- Add Value to the Unit: Skills learned in elective courses often enhance unit capabilities (e.g., first aiders, radio operators, training and operational support)
- Support Promotion and Performance: While not always required for promotion, completing electives shows initiative and commitment – qualities valued when considering cadets for leadership roles
- Personal Growth: Electives often involve hands-on, scenario-based learning that builds problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork in practical settings
Camps
Two camps are held each year. Further information will be provided at a later date.
AFX (Annual Camp)
Term 1 Week 11
5 days in Eungai Creek
Promotions Camp (For those enrolled in Sergeant or CUO Courses)
September
3 days over a weekend at Holsworthy Army Barracks
Program Details
Officer Commanding: Xavier Maling, CAPT
Places Available: Open to all interested students
Day and Time: Friday 3.30pm–5pm
Location: MLC School
Cost: There is a cost associated with this activity. Year 10 and Year 11 Promotions Camp is an additional cost.
Enrolment: A link to the MLC School Payments page will be shared when registration opens