For Sydney raised sailor Leading Seaman (LS) Angela Liang, service in the Royal Australian Navy has brought confidence, camaraderie and a strong sense of purpose.

LS Liang joined the Navy in 2020 after completing a Bachelor of Languages at the Australian National University. Before enlisting, she worked in hospitality and hotel management, including a secondment at a resort in Fiji.

“I wasn’t feeling fulfilled after I finished study,” she said.

“I wanted to be part of something that demanded more of me as a person.”

A conversation with an Army corporal at the Australian Defence Force Careers Centre helped steer her towards Navy, despite her limited understanding of what the role would involve.

“My expectations were mostly shaped by films and recruiting ads, so I thought there would be a lot more yelling and PT,” she said.

Her family and friends supported her decision to enlist. Her father believed Navy would help build her confidence, while her mother, though initially nervous about the environment, is now proud of her daughter’s service.

As a Maritime Personnel Operator, LS Liang supports the delivery of personnel and administrative services that underpin ship readiness. She also supervises administration processes within Defence systems, and contributes to whole of ship duties and auxiliary roles at sea.

LS Liang says amphibious ship HMAS Choules has been central to her Navy experience.

“Choules is the only ship I’ve served on, so she’ll always be my favourite,” she said. “I actually prefer being at sea. The people make all the difference.”

Her contribution was recognised when she was named HMAS Choules Shipmate of the Year 2025. The award cited her dedication, professionalism and mentorship of junior sailors.

“The award reflects the culture on board,” she said. “The camaraderie is genuine, and the friendships I’ve made in Navy are some of the strongest I’ve had. There’s a real sense of shared effort at sea.”

Among her most memorable experiences are port visits across Australia and the region, including Hobart in 2025 and Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Day commemorations. During the visit, she attended a Military Tattoo featuring international forces.

“It was incredible seeing all the different military bands and being part of such a significant national event,” she said.

Outside of work, LS Liang is a keen runner and completed her first half marathon in 2023.

Her advice to those considering Navy is simple: “If you’re thinking about it, go for it. Use every resource available and speak to people already doing the job.”