Why be a NTPFES Cadet?
The NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services (NTPFES) Cadet program is an 18 month Vocational Education and Training program for students commencing year 11. The program provides a unique experience for students to experience working in the Emergency Services environment, while also gaining tertiary qualifications. The program can also provide employment pathways into NTPFES, with Cadet graduates eligible for entry level Public Service recruitment via Cadet Special Measures Priority Consideration.
Applications for the 2026 Cadet Program have been extended and will now close at 4.00 PM on Friday 31st October 2025.
Selection Interviews in both Darwin and Alice Springs will be conducted from Tuesday the 11th of November 2025 to Thursday the 13th of November 2025.
All applications MUST be supported by the applicant’s school VET coordinator.
General Cadet program enquires can be sent to cadets.pfes@pfes.nt.gov.au at any time.
As a NTPFES Cadet, you will participate in fun and educational activities such as:
Darwin
- POL21122 - Certificate II in Community Engagement (RTO No. 0384)
one day a week at the NTPFES College, each school term - BSB30120 - Certificate III in Business, Charles Darwin University (RTO No. 0373)
- one day a week at the Darwin Campus, each school term
- An outdoor adventure and leadership camp
- A visit to an Indigenous community to learn about cultural and community engagement
- Volunteering at local community events and in local community organisations
- Several work placements including within the NTPFES
- As well as several weeks specific to learning the tricks of the trade with Fire and Emergency Services.
Alice Springs
- POL21122 - Certificate II in Community Engagement (RTO No. 0384) one day a week, each school term
- BSB30120 - Certificate III in Business, Charles Darwin University (RTO No. 0373)
- one day a week at the Alice Springs Campus, each school term
- An outdoor adventure and leadership camp
- A visit to an Indigenous community to learn about cultural and community engagement
- Volunteering with local community organisations
- Several work placements including within the NTPFES
- Several weeks dedicated to learning the tricks of the trade with Fire and Emergency Services.
Application Process
All applications must be supported by the school VET coordinator. The application process consists of three stages:
- Submission of the application form, including all supporting documentation, and a one page handwritten letter detailing why the applicant wants to become a PFES Cadet.
- Physical Fitness assessment
- Face to Face interview with staff from PFES and CDU
Supporting information from the school that must be included with the application form include the applicants year 10 academic results, discipline history, and attendance record for Semester One of year 10.
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