Understanding the Ranks of the Australian Army Cadets

The Australian Army Cadets (AAC) follow a structured rank system that mirrors the Australian Army. These ranks help establish leadership, discipline, and responsibility, giving cadets a pathway for personal development and progression.

Each rank in the AAC comes with greater expectations and leadership opportunities, ensuring cadets learn teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.

The Rank Structure

The AAC rank system is divided into different categories:

• Other Ranks (Cadet Recruits, Cadets, and Cadet Non-Commissioned Officers)
• Junior Non-Commissioned Officers (JNCOs)
• Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs)
• Cadet Officers (CUOs)
• Officers of Cadets (Adult Staff Members)

Each level represents a progression of responsibility, from learning the basics as a cadet to leading entire groups of cadets at the highest levels.

Other Ranks

The Australian Army Cadets refer to members who are not Officers as other ranks. These personnel are Cadet Recruits, Cadets, Cadet Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs), and Cadet Warrant Officers (WOs).

There is no rank insignia or slide for this rank.

Cadet Recruit
(CDT REC)

This is the entry-level rank for new cadets recently joining the AAC. Cadet Recruits are in training, learning the basics of drill, fieldcraft, teamwork, and discipline.

Cadet (CDT)

Once recruits complete basic training, they become a Cadet (CDT). At this stage, they participate in AAC activities, gaining experience in leadership, teamwork, and military skills.

Junior Non-Commissioned Officer (JNCO) Ranks

JNCOs are the first step into leadership roles within the AAC. They help guide newer cadets and take on small leadership responsibilities within their section.

Cadet Lance Corporal (CDTLCPL)

This is the first leadership rank a cadet can achieve. A Cadet Lance Corporal is responsible for assisting in leading small groups, such as a section, under the supervision of senior cadets.

Cadet Corporal (CDTCPL)

A Cadet Corporal has increased leadership responsibilities, including instructing cadets and assisting with training exercises. They lead sections and assist in planning activities.

Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) Ranks:

SNCOs have advanced leadership roles, leading large groups of cadets and assisting officers with unit operations. They are expected to be excellent role models and mentors.

Cadet Sergeant (CDTSGT)

Cadet Sergeants oversee multiple sections and play a key role in training, unit discipline, and mentoring of the unit JNCOs.

Cadet Warrant Officer Class Two (CDTWO2)

At this rank, cadets take on significant leadership responsibilities within the unit. They assist with organising and coordinating unit activities and oversee discipline and standards.

Cadet Warrant Officer Class One (CDTWO1)

The most senior SNCO rank, responsible for unit-wide leadership. CDTWO1s are highly experienced and work closely with officers to run the unit.

Cadet Officer Ranks

The rank of Cadet Under Officer (CUO) is the highest rank that a cadet can achieve. The CUO essentially functions as an officer at the youth participant level, planning and leading activities. As a youth participant, it is essential to note that the CUO does not have supervision or duty of care responsibilities, as these remain the sole responsibility of adult Army Cadet Staff.

Cadet Under Officer (CUO)

The highest rank a cadet can achieve. CUOs act as officers but remain youth participants. They plan and lead activities but do not have duty of care responsibilities (which remain with adult staff).

Regional Cadet Under Officer (RCUO)

RCUOs act as a bridge between unit-level cadets and brigade leadership, ensuring that cadet voices are heard at a higher level.

National Cadet Under Officer (NCUO)

The highest-ranking cadet in the AAC, representing a youth perspective on policies, programs, and cadet development at the national level to senior leaders.

Officer of Cadet Ranks

While Officers of Cadets wear commissioned officer rank insignia, they do not hold a formal military commission. Unlike cadets, they are responsible for duty of care, supervision, and training.

Members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) are not required to salute Officers of Cadets, as they do not hold a commissioned military rank.

Why Ranks Matter

The rank structure in the Australian Army Cadets is more than titles and insignias—it represents a journey of leadership, discipline, and personal development.

• Progression: Ranks give cadets a clear pathway for advancement.
• Leadership Skills: Higher ranks come with more responsibility and leadership opportunities.
• Teamwork: The chain of command teaches teamwork, respect, and communication.
• Life Skills: Cadets gain problem-solving, discipline, and resilience—valuable career skills.

Whether starting as a Cadet Recruit or working your way up to Cadet Under Officer, every rank is an opportunity to grow, learn, and lead.