Naval College FAQ
When accepted to come to the Royal Australian Naval College, you will receive comprehensive joining instructions. Some Frequently Asked Questions are:
How fit do I really need to be?
- The fitter you are the better, as there are a number of activities that require you to demonstrate both strength and cardiovascular endurance.
- The Navy's Physical Fitness Test for under 35's requires men to reach a standard of 25 push-ups, 25 sit-ups and a maximum of 13 minutes for a 2.4km run. For women it is 10 push-ups, 25 sit-ups and a maximum of 15 minutes for a 2.4km run.
- You should aim to be able to easily exceed these minimum fitness requirements. You should also develop a fast recovery time, as this is a true indicator of fitness.
Do I need to carry a pack?
- Yes! As a component of the practical leadership training you will be required to carry a pack for the four leadership exercises. You will also carry a pack as part of Physical Training in order to build up fitness.
Do I get to keep my mobile phone during Initial Training Period(ITP)?
- On arrival, all New Entry Officers are to declare their mobile phone(s) to their Divisional Staff and each mobile Phone is to be registered on the Division's Mobile Phone Master List.
- New Entry Officers will then be permitted to retain their mobile phone(s) for the duration of NEOC with limitations imposed. During the Initial Training Period you will be working 7 days a week so opportunities to make calls will be limited. If your family urgently needs to contact you, your divisional Officer can be used as a point of contact for emergencies. You will be advised on the policy on Mobile Phone use within the first few days of joining.
- You are able to receive mail during Initial Training Period (ITP), so it is advised that you may like to organise with your family in advance to receive care packages. (No alcohol or other inappropriate materials, as these will be confiscated).
If there is an emergency can my family contact me?
- On your first night you will be able to contact your family with your emergency contact details. Your Divisional Officer will be your first point of contact for emergencies and they will provide their details on the first night.
How much space do I have for personal effects in my cabin?
- You do not have a lot of personal space, and there will be times you are required to move your cabin, therefore it is advisable to minimise the amount of personal effects you bring with you. As a rule of thumb, bring two or three sets of civilian clothing, a suit (or female equivalent), two pairs of civilian shoes plus a pair of runners. A notebook computer is strongly advised as it can be used as a stereo, a TV and of course for entertainment out of hours.
Can I get dial-up Internet access from my cabin?
- No. There are no telephone facilities for you to connect to the Internet with your personal computer. However there are a number of Defence computers with Internet access for work and study purposes.
- There are some technologies out that may allow you to obtain access through the wireless CDMA network, however given the remote location of Jervis Bay, there are no broadband services available.
Do I really need 20 single pant-hangers and 20 coat-hangers?
- Yes! You will use every single one of them, so ensure you bring some extras for your civilian clothing.
- Remember that there is limited space in your cupboard for civilian clothing as most of it is taken up by uniforms.
What if I am under 18 years of age?
- You will be involved in all the same activities as your peers, however, you will not be able to consume alcohol until you turn 18.
Can I go home during the course?
- Yes and No. You can choose to travel home for weekends to see family, however you do not receive any significant holiday periods whilst on course.
Can I drive my own car to Creswell?
- You are not permitted to bring your own vehicle on board Creswell until you have completed your Initial Training Period. Therefore you are unable to drive your own vehicle to Creswell. In the event that no short term storage is available for your vehicle during ITP, you may request via the Operations Manager to bring your car on board Creswell during ITP.
Are there EFTPOS and Credit Card facilities on base?
- Yes, there is a branch of the Australian Defence Credit Union (ADCU) on board, and the post office is a registered agent for the Commonwealth bank and provides an EFTPOS facility for trainees to withdraw funds on base.
