We Were...

The Australian Navy Cadets (formerly known as the Naval Reserve Cadets) have been part of the Navy family for many years and are recognised under the Naval Defence Act of 1910. Until 1973, they were known as the Australian Sea Cadet Corp and were jointly administered by the Navy League of Australia and the Royal Australian Navy.

In 1973 the RAN assumed full control of the Corps, renaming it the Naval Reserve Cadets. In 2001, the NRC was then renamed the Australian Navy Cadets (ANC) under the recommendations of the "Cadets - The Future Review" presented to the Commonwealth Government.

We Are...

Since then, with the support of the RAN, the ANC has developed steadily and undergone many changes to remain relevant to today's youth and the expectations of modern society.

In the 91 Units of the ANC, including those formed under the Cadets in High Schools Schemes, over 450 staff and 1600 cadets in the ANC undertake training at locations throughout Australia. Many Units are in isolated communities with limited youth facilities and others assist disadvantaged young people. Consequently the ANC plays a significant community support role and is held in high regard..

The ANC comprises around 30% of Australians in Naval uniform. While we are not part of the Australian Defence Force, as part of the Navy family we have a significant role to play in linking the Australian community to the RAN. More often than not the ANC is the only uniformed presence in its local community and Cadets provide a positive focus on the RAN in the eyes of the public.

Cadets reflect Navy's strong commitment to the Australian community and  thousands of young Australians have improved their lives by learning citizenship through seamanship as Australian Navy Cadets. Many have progressed to successful careers in the Royal Australian Navy or made significant contributions to their civilian communities in later life.