The Australian Navy Cadets and the Australian Army Cadets have agreed to become a licensed National Duke of Edinburgh Award Centre, enabling them to deliver the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award framework to young Australians.
The agreement reflects the shared objectives and values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence.
His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, chairman of the trustees, International Award Foundation, said it was ultimately for the benefit of countless young people, regardless of their circumstances, for whom it provides a wealth of experiences and learning.
"I trust that many Navy, Army and Air Force cadets, as well as their instructors, will make the most of the opportunities available through this partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award. I look forward to hearing more about this initiative and how Australian cadets use the Duke of Ed Framework," he said.
Peter Kaye, of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - Australia, said the framework would add further value to the activities cadets undertake.
"This partnership will promote and accredit individual achievement and personal development," Mr Kaye said.
"The cadet youth development continuum is recognised to be compatible with the Duke of Ed Framework, which organises and accredits non-formal education."
Navy and Army cadets will join the Australian Air Force Cadets in having their achievements recognised by the framework.
'The Duke of Ed provides formal recognition to our cadets and supports them in their continued development.'
The cadet programs offer a platform to develop resilience, teamwork, leadership and confidence in safe environments where young Australians are supported and encouraged to persevere and succeed.
The recent modernisation of the Navy, Army and Air Force cadet youth development programs enables young Australians to immerse themselves in a range of STEM opportunities and service-specific practical activities, such as sailing, powerboating, bivouacs, annual field exercises and aircraft operation.
Director General of the Australian Navy Cadets Commodore David Greaves said the agreement was a natural fit.
"It enhances our program and provides the cadets with an internationally recognised accreditation," he said.
Commander Australian Army Cadets Brigadier Benjamin Slaughter said the agreement sought to recognise the shared values between the respective organisations.
"The Duke of Ed provides formal recognition to our cadets and supports them in their continued development," Brigadier Slaughter said.
Learn more about the ADF cadet programs and becoming a volunteer at www.defenceyouth.gov.au/programs/adf-cadets/
