Qualification Outline
27/08/2026 6:30 PM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Certificate II in Defence Skills
Certificate II in Defence Skills
DEF20326
BTX9
Current
Approved
National Endorsed, State Implementation and Classification
Releases
| Release Version | Release Date | TGA Status | DTWD Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.00 | 20/05/2026 | Current | Approved |
Description
This qualification provides foundational skills and knowledge for individuals considering careers in Defence, Defence-related industries, or other structured work environments in the public sector. This qualification is suitable for delivery through VET delivered to Secondary Students, Australian Defence Force Cadets, and other youth development programs.
Where relevant, some units of competency in this qualification may be recognised on entry to Defence and the Australian Defence Force.
Graduates of this qualification:
demonstrate foundational teamwork and communication skills
display emerging leadership capabilities to support team cohesion
apply basic safety procedures and contribute to the wellbeing of self and others
participate in ceremonial and field-based activities aligned with Defence protocols
apply entry-level technical skills across selected elective fields.
Foundation Skills Outcomes
The foundation skills outcomes implicit in this qualification are outlined in the below table.
Learning
Reading
Writing
Oral Communication
Numeracy
2
2
2
2
1
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.
Schedule
Packaging Rules
A total of twelve (12) units of competency are required for this qualification:- Four (4) Core units listed below, plus
- Eight (8) Elective units.
Choose six (6) elective units from any of the elective groups in the list below.
The remaining two (2) elective units may be chosen from the elective unit list below or from another currently endorsed training package or accredited course.
Elective groups have been listed to help training providers develop pathways for learners. These do not contribute towards a specialisation.
Elective units from outside the below list must ensure the integrity of the qualification’s Australian Qualifications Framework level and contribute to an industry-supported vocational outcome.
1. Core units
These units must be completed.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD86 | BSBWHS211 | Contribute to the health and safety of self and others | 15 | Unit of competency |
| AVQ82 | DEFMIL008 | Display the attributes of Defence personnel | 0 | Unit of competency |
| AVQ81 | DEFMIL009 | Integrate into the Defence working environment | 0 | Unit of competency |
| AVR28 | DEFGEN001 | Work in a team | 0 | Unit of competency |
2. Elective units: Group A - Cadet Electives
Choose six (6) electives from any of the elective groups listed.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVR18 | DEFGEN011 | Interpret policy, legislation and regulations | 0 | Unit of competency |
| OBF36 | SISOFLD007 | Navigate in difficult tracked environments | 35 | Unit of competency |
| AVQ71 | DEFMIL028 | Navigate in remote and unmodified landscapes | 0 | Unit of competency |
| OBF34 | SISOFLD006 | Navigate in tracked environments | 30 | Unit of competency |
| OAY03 | PUAOPE013 | Operate communications systems and equipment | 15 | Unit of competency |
| AVQ83 | DEFMIL007 | Participate in ceremonial activities | 0 | Unit of competency |
| ODD85 | CUAMPF211 | Perform simple musical pieces | 63 | Unit of competency |
| OBF38 | SISOFLD003 | Select, set up and operate a temporary or overnight site | 25 | Unit of competency |
| AVR22 | DEFGEN006 | Work with equity and diversity | 0 | Unit of competency |
3. Elective units: Group B - Digital & Technical Electives
Choose six (6) electives from any of the elective groups listed.
4. Elective units: Group C - General Electives
Choose six (6) electives from any of the elective groups listed.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODX58 | PSPGEN129 | Access and use resources | 20 | Unit of competency |
| OCE92 | BSBCMM211 | Apply communication skills | 35 | Unit of competency |
| ODX74 | CPCWHS1001 | Prepare to work safely in the construction industry | 6 | Unit of competency |
| OCD30 | HLTAID011 | Provide First Aid | 18 | Unit of competency |
| ODP43 | TLID0020 | Shift materials safely using manual handling methods | 20 | Unit of competency |
| ODX57 | PSPGEN145 | Work effectively in the organisation | 20 | Unit of competency |
| OCD94 | BSBTWK201 | Work effectively with others | 35 | Unit of competency |
| ODX47 | PSPGEN144 | Work in a public sector environment | 40 | Unit of competency |
| OCD71 | BSBWRT311 | Write simple documents | 30 | Unit of competency |
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AWZ6 | DEF21115 | Certificate II in Military Skills | Qualification |
General Notes
No information
Entry Requirements
No information
Traineeships and Apprenticeships