Updated for 2025: Defence workforce insights and trends
Contracting plays a critical role in Australian defence industry, supporting major Defence projects, AUKUS initiatives, and national security capabilities. From engineering to ICT, project management, and security-cleared roles (Baseline, NV1, NV2, TSPV), contractors provide the agility and expertise that keep Australia’s Defence programs moving.
Yet, despite strong demand, many professionals hesitate to make the move into contracting. Whether you’re transitioning from permanent employment, ADF member, or looking to enter the Defence jobs market for the first time, it’s normal to have reservations.
Let’s explore the most common fears about contracting, and why they’re not as daunting as they seem.
Fear 1: “I’ll Miss Out on Workplace Relationships”
Defence projects often involve working alongside multidisciplinary teams across Defence, industry primes, and government agencies. Contractors may rotate through different environments, but that’s a strength, not a weakness.
You’ll quickly build a diverse professional network spanning a variety of Defence engineering firms, Defence ICT programs, or even AUKUS-aligned initiatives. While you may not join the same team’s Secret Santa every year, you’ll gain broad exposure and lasting professional connections.
Tip: Join Defence-industry networking groups or online communities such as the Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN), Women in Defence (WTC) or Defence Industry Networking (DIN) to stay connected between projects. |
Fear 2: “The Finances Sound Complicated”
Contracting rates are typically higher (around 25% more on average) to offset the lack of paid leave. But with planning and discipline, the financial flexibility can be empowering.
Contractors often:
Earn a higher hourly rate compared to permanent roles.
Choose when and how much to work.
Take unpaid leave when they need a break.
In the defence industry, where long-term contracts are common, contractors often enjoy consistent work through labour-hire panels and Defence workforce suppliers. If you’re organised and set aside funds for downtime, contracting can deliver better overall earning potential.
Definition: What is a Defence contractor? Want to know more about security clearances? Start here. |
Fear 3: “I Won’t Be Able to Progress My Career”
Many assume contracting limits career progression, but in the defence industry workforce, the opposite is often true.
Contractors gain access to varied environments, technologies, and training that accelerate professional growth. By moving between programs, you’ll rapidly upskill in:
Different Defence systems and methodologies.
Project and stakeholder environments.
New technologies and classified systems.
Each new contract builds your resume, helping you command higher rates and seniority over time. Instead of waiting for a promotion cycle, your experience and expertise become the promotion.
Job titles and promotions vary between workplaces, but a solid CV with strong, varied experiences, multiple qualifications and skills, and a list of referees a mile long will always be impressive to a hiring manager.
Fear 4: “There’s No Job Security”
This is the biggest hesitation, but let’s be honest: job security is never absolute, even in permanent roles.
Most Defence and national security projects operate on fixed timeframes. Once one ends, another begins. With demand for security-cleared professionals at record highs (particularly in ICT, engineering, and project management), skilled contractors often line up their next engagement before the current one ends.
In 2025, the defence industry’s project-based model means contracting offers just as much stability as permanent work. Redundancies happen in both, but contractors maintain flexibility and control.
Thinking About Contracting in the Defence Industry?
If you’re curious about joining Australia’s defence industry contracting community, consider:
Your clearance level: Most contract roles require AGSVA security clearance (Baseline, NV1, NV2, or TSPV).
Your skill set & experience level: Specialist engineers, ICT specialists, project managers, logistics professionals, and PMO professionals are in high demand. Most contractors are mid to very experienced in their fields; it’s unusual to find a contractor with very little experience. If you’re just starting out, permanent roles might be better suited.
Your career goals: Contracting can open doors to AUKUS programs, highly-classified projects, and leading Defence primes.
The Australian defence industry depends on its contracting workforce to deliver national capability. With the right mindset, planning, and network, contracting can be a secure, rewarding, and future-focused career move.
Ready to explore defence industry contracting? Connect with recruitment partners like Kinexus for guidance on current projects, roles, and security clearance requirements.
