DITC - Defence International Training Centre

The Defence International Training Centre was honoured to host cadets and support staff participating in the 2026 Southeast Asia English Language Training Cadet Tour.

Cadets from Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam travelled to Australia to experience our training environment and learn more about Australian Defence Force pathways and opportunities.

During their visit, cadets were introduced to Australian military training culture, explored how English supports interoperability and teamwork, and engaged directly with instructors and students about life and learning at DITC.

The tour provided future leaders from across Southeast Asia with firsthand exposure to ADF schools, academies and bases, including DITC, ADFA and RMC-D, as well as Australian culture and values.

We hope the experience was both rewarding and inspiring, and that it provided valuable insight into future study and training opportunities in Australia. We also look forward to welcoming many of the cadets back in the future as DITC students preparing for ADF courses across Australia.

Thank you for your professionalism, curiosity and friendship.

DITC and DFSL recently came together to commemorate an important milestone, 125 years of the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Army.

We reflected on the moment in 1901 when Australia formed its Commonwealth Naval and Military Forces, laying the foundation for the modern Navy and Army. The ceremony honoured generations of sailors, soldiers, civilians and international partners whose service, professionalism and sacrifice shaped our history.

We also recognised the strength of the Total Force ADF, APS, contractors and our international students whose combined expertise and cooperation remain essential to Defence’s future.
A meaningful celebration of our past and a reminder of the shared work ahead

The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) ship KD Lekir has concluded a significant port visit to Melbourne as part of Lekir Australia Deployment 2026 (LEAD ’26), reinforcing the enduring Australia–Malaysia defence partnership.

More than a routine logistics stop, the visit highlighted close operational cooperation and people‑to‑people links. The deployment followed an intensive east coast program during KD Lekir’s two‑month circumnavigation of Australia, including participation in the Royal Australian Navy’s 125th Anniversary Fleet Review and Exercise KAKADU 26.

A highlight of the visit was a reception hosted onboard, bringing together RMN personnel, Defence International Training Centre (DITC) staff, Malaysian Defence students and families, and members of Victoria’s Malaysian community. The event featured traditional cuisine and cultural performances, fostering connection and mutual respect.

The visit was supported by DITC Malaysian Seconded Officer MAJ Aidilnur binti Ahmad Wahiduddin, whose coordination and community engagement underscored the value of embedded international officers in strengthening Defence cooperation.

To mark the occasion, CAPT Jennifer Hackney, on behalf of CMDR Peter Russell RAN, presented a token of appreciation to KD Lekir’s Commanding Officer, CMDR Megat Mohamad Sofwan Firdaus RMN, recognising the ship’s professionalism and hospitality.

KD Lekir departed Melbourne on 7 April and continues west to Perth to participate in Malaysian–Australian Exercise (MASTEX) 26 from 14–20 April, further enhancing interoperability and shared maritime security outcome

Engagements such as LEAD ’26 demonstrate that enduring Defence partnerships are built not only through strategy and training, but through shared experiences at sea and ashore—where trust, cooperation and friendship continue to grow.

We are proud to acknowledge Mr P Donohue for 20 years of distinguished service to the Australian Public Service and Defence. His contributions from strengthening Defence’s international partnerships, to pioneering digital learning, to leading key modernisation initiatives have shaped DITC - Defence International Training Centre's capability and elevated Australia’s international defence education reputation.

We were also honoured to present the National Emergency Medal (Bushfire Assist 19-20) to CPL M Rahman. This award, part of the Australian Honours System, recognises sustained or significant service during declared national emergencies. The medal symbolises Australia’s gratitude to those who step forward in times of crisis, providing support, assistance and hope to communities facing devastation.

DITC is proud to recognise both recipients for their professionalism, commitment, and service to our nation. Their achievements reflect the values that strengthen Defence and support Australia’s resilience.

Last week, the Defence International Training Centre celebrated with our Inspiration Tree, a display where staff and international students added green leaves honouring the women who inspired them.

Led by our Tongan Seconded Officer, WO2 Lilamani Holi, the activity brought together personnel from around the region to reflect on leadership, inclusion and the contributions of women across our Defence and Indo-Pacific communities.

Each leaf added helped grow a powerful symbol of unity, respect and empowerment.

Together, we worked to Balance the Scales one message at a time.

Developed together with our Indo-Pacific partners, our new Military English series ‘Engage’ strengthens access to ADF training, enhances interoperability, and supports shared capability development across the region. A modern resource built on collaboration, trust and long-term partnership.

To learn more, contact the Defence International Training Centre Military English team: [email protected]

👉https://ditc.defence.gov.au/engage-military-english-textbook

🎓 DITC celebrates success!
Congrats to graduates of:
✅ ADFELPS Raters
✅ Methodology of English Language Teaching
✅ Advanced Australian English Language Course
Your dedication built strong connections & lasting impact. 👏

🌺 Honouring Remembrance Day |
DITC staff & students honoured those who served and sacrificed in war, conflict, and peace operations. Wreath laid by SQNLDR O’Neill (A/CO) & MAJ Gabayno (Philippine ISO) |
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🌟 Dream big. Achieve more.
DITC proudly celebrates the graduates of Advanced Professional English Language Course 1-25! Your hard work, resilience, and friendships forged along the way prove that growth knows no limits. 👏
Congratulations!