The ASPI Defence Fellows Program is a one-year, non-resident fellowship for emerging defence and national security leaders. Through research, mentorship and engagement with ASPI experts and senior practitioners, the program develops the next generation of strategic thinkers while contributing new ideas and analysis to Australia’s defence debate.

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Eight Fellows are selected each year through a competitive application process.

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The ASPI Defence Fellows Program is designed for emerging leaders with approximately seven to fifteen years of relevant professional experience who demonstrate the potential to move into leadership roles or bring new ideas and perspectives to Australia’s defence and national security community.

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Applicants may come from across the defence ecosystem, including government and military, industry, academia, think tanks and related fields. Applications are open to Australian applicants and applicants from relevant international partner countries.

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Fellows remain in their existing employment throughout the program, so applicants must be able to participate in program activities alongside their professional responsibilities. Applicants should also have a strong research idea relevant to Australian defence policy and the priorities established in the current National Defence Strategy.

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Each Defence Fellow develops an original ASPI Explainer examining a specific question, issue or development relevant to Australian defence and security, together with an accompanying article for The Strategist. Explainers use evidence-based analysis to help readers understand the significance and implications of an issue for Australian defence and national security policy.

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Fellows are paired with a senior ASPI Research Mentor who provides guidance on research framing, analysis, editorial revisions and publication. Dedicated research and writing workshops strengthen Fellows’ skills in policy analysis, analytical writing and strategic communication.

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The program connects Fellows with peers and senior practitioners from across government, Defence, industry, academia and the wider national security community.

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Fellows are invited to ASPI events throughout the year, including selected closed-door engagements where appropriate, and become members of the ASPI Defence Fellows Alumni Network upon completion of the program.

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Fellows participate in monthly seminars examining contemporary defence and national security issues and are paired with a senior Career Mentor for individual professional and leadership development.

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The program includes a two-day intensive in Canberra featuring workshops, engagements with senior practitioners across Australia’s national security community, and attendance at the ASPI Defence Conference in June 2027. Flights and accommodation are provided for Fellows.

The program is intended primarily for professionals with seven to fifteen years of relevant experience across defence and national security. Applicants may come from government and military, industry, academia, think tanks and other relevant fields.

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The program is open to Australian applicants and applicants from relevant international partner countries. Some activities take place in person in Canberra, while all Program workshops include a remote option.

Follow the link for more information and please cite Ripple Opportunities in your application. 

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Please note that all enquiries for this opportunity can be handled directly with the organisation.