FAQs

If I am married, do both husband & wife have to become Officers?

There is no greater opportunity than to serve God with the person you love the most. Couples need to be on the same page when it comes to serving God in this way. Consequently, The Salvation Army believes that for the betterment of the marriage and The Army, in the case of married couples both partners need to become Officers.

Where will I serve as an Officer?

The Eastern Territory of Australia comprises ACT, NSW and QLD. As an Officer of this Territory, you are most likely to serve within this region. In saying that, The Salvation Army is an International movement with various Christian missions and churches all over the world so there is potential for you to serve in many different countries and cultures, and see places and God at work in ways you may never have dreamed of.

Do I have a say in where I serve as an Officer?

In this Territory the leadership listens to officers when determining appointments. Much is done to match the right officer to the right appointment. Consideration is given to family needs, gifts, abilities and the officer’s personal convictions.

Do I need my HSC to go to the School for Officer Training?

The HSC is not a pre-requisite in training to be an officer. Cadets work towards an Advanced Diploma of Theology as a minimum requirement and it is expected that all cadets have the academic capacity to fulfill this level of education. The pre-college program is designed in part to help applicants prepare for the Advanced Diploma of Theology.

I’ve already done theological study. Do I still need to go to the School for Officer Training?

There is so much more to the Officer training program than just theology. The staff will develop with you a training programme which is responsive to your needs.

I just want to get into ministry. Why do I have to go to the School for Officer Training first?

While The Salvation Army is a church movement called to action, we still hold in high regard the need for trained clergy. As our work is ministering into people’s lives, sometimes at very fragile moments, there is little room for practice on the run. It would not be fair on either the Officers or the people for whom we care if The Salvation Army did not uphold this high value.

I am a single parent. Can I still become an officer?

There are a number of single parent officers currently making a valuable contribution to the life and work of The Salvation Army. Raising children, however, is not only a great privilege but also a tremendous responsibility. At times being an officer is demanding and consequently some family situations may not be conducive to this lifestyle. With each application, consideration is given to the age of children, number of children and extended family circumstances.

Do all cadets become Officers?

The purpose of the training program is to equip people for ministry. However, during training it can become evident that some people are not suitable for this type of ministry. In these circumstances, an exit strategy will be determined, with consultation between the Cadet and the staff.

Do my pre-school children have to attend the college child care centre?

It is expected that both parents are trained for Officership and are required for classes and training between 8.30am and 3pm. Therefore it is necessary for pre-school age children to be in child care.

Can we have a baby while we are cadets?

The Salvation Army recognises that all children are a gift from God. However, married couples need to consider the challenges of the training program and plan to avoid starting or extending their family during this time. If, however, pregnancy occurs at an unexpected time, the training staff will support the family to help ensure college requirements are still met.

Do I need my driver’s licence and should I keep my car?

It is a requirement of entry to SFOT that all Cadets have their driver’s licence. Having a car at SFOT is not essential. However, it is recommended as you will be required to travel to various SA locations. There are public buses and Bexley North train station is just a short walk from SFOT.