Aircraftwoman Emma Loffman-Moore, a 25-year-old aircraft technician, felt the pressures of leaving home for the first time and facing independent decisions.
She was inspired to join the Top Chicks program after hearing glowing reviews from her male colleagues who completed the Top Blokes program.
Top Chicks equips 18 to 25-year-old women in Defence with tools to navigate life confidently.
Building on the success of its male counterpart, Top Chicks focuses on emotional awareness and regulation, resilience, confidence and self-worth.
"I wanted to make new friends, seek advice from experienced Defence members, and learn how others adjusted to new social circles and routines," Aircraftwoman Loffman-Moore said.
"I'm eccentric and quite feminine, so navigating a predominantly male environment can be tough.
"This program helped me realise that everyone's differences contribute uniquely to the team - each person has strengths and weaknesses."
The course boosted her confidence and helped her personal growth, prompting her to encourage others to join.
"Be vulnerable; it's a closed-door environment. If you feel uncomfortable elsewhere, this is your chance to be heard, find empathy and make lifelong friends," Aircraftwoman Loffman-Moore said.
"I now have a tight group of friends. We meet for coffee, stay connected in our Signal group and check in on each other when we cross paths on base."
The nine-week course, held at 2 Operational Conversion Unit at RAAF Base Williamtown, addresses the unique social, emotional and physical needs of young women through two-hour workshops.
'If you feel uncomfortable elsewhere, this is your chance to be heard, find empathy and make lifelong friends.'
The relaxed, out-of-uniform environment broke down barriers among ranks, allowing the women to speak freely and find solace in shared experiences.
Corporal Samantha Mead, of 26 Squadron, was one of two mentors on the inaugural course early this year.
Collaborating with head educator Laura Collinson from Well Education, Corporal Mead integrated Defence-related topics such as managing postings, moving away from social circles, relationship issues and stresses of Defence life.
Corporal Mead saw significant personal growth among the women.
"Initially, they felt isolated in their work and personal lives, but by the end of the course, they realised they weren't alone and formed genuine connections," she said.
Corporal Mead said Top Chicks was unlike any other course Defence offered.
"It aims to make female aviators holistically better people both in and out of the workplace," she said.
"I wish a program like this had been available when I enlisted at 18, but I'm grateful to be involved now as a mentor in such a beneficial initiative."
Leading Aircraftwoman Hannah Flay, a personnel capability specialist at 77 Squadron, appreciated the course.
"Connecting with women facing similar challenges was incredibly helpful at my age," she said.
The 21-year-old said it normalised issues such as stress around postings and provided comfort through shared experiences.
The course also addressed the impact of social media on body image, self-worth and identity, equipping women with tools to nurture a healthy self-perspective.
The rapid success of both courses surprised Flight Sergeant Ryan Hodgson, one of the creators and facilitators.
"We knew we had something good and were passionate about making both courses happen, thanks to the support from Air Commodore Pete Robinson, Commander Air Combat Group, and Warrant Officer Wade Shipway, Group Warrant Officer, who supported us from concept to execution."
