Imagery Specialist Trade Reforms Create Opportunities in the Australian Army
In a significant shift, the Australian Army is revolutionising its approach to recruiting photographers, offering civilian professionals a chance to join its ranks.
Until recently, the exclusive route to becoming an Army imagery specialist involved three years of service in another trade before applying for a corps transfer.
The landscape has now evolved, with new part-time reservist positions available not only in capital cities but also in regional hubs like Townsville and Rockhampton.
Diverse Opportunities in Focus
The primary responsibilities of these positions include capturing compelling photos and videos during local training exercises and events.
This visual storytelling serves to convey the Army’s narrative and can potentially lead to opportunities for deployment on exercises and operations across Australia and around the world.
Most notably, the imagery produced is published by Defence and disseminated to both Australian and international news media.
Flexible Training for Aspiring Reservists
New reservist soldiers undergo 21-day basic training at Kapooka, a commitment that can be fulfilled part-time for those with full-time jobs.
Reservists are expected to contribute at least 20 days of work for the Army each year.
Major Tom Maclean, of Military Public Affairs Trade and Training, notes that professional civilian photographers, including news media photographers and TAFE graduates, have expressed interest in these roles.
Adapting Skills to the Military Environment
Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Rob Nyffenegger, an Army imagery specialist, emphasises that candidates with existing photography knowledge will focus on adapting their technical skills to a deployed military environment.
The training, delivered through a flexible online model, caters to the part-time force, allowing reservists the time needed to meet assessment criteria.
This initiative not only opens doors for civilian photographers but also enriches the Army’s capabilities with diverse skill sets.
As Townsville becomes a focal point for these opportunities, the city’s vibrant community may witness a surge in individuals contributing to the Army’s visual narrative.
