Qualification Outline
23/07/2026 12:04 AM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Diploma of Institutional and Operational Chaplaincy
Diploma of Institutional and Operational Chaplaincy
DEF53415
AXA6
Current
Approved
National Endorsed, State Implementation and Classification
Releases
| Release Version | Release Date | TGA Status | DTWD Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.00 | 21/10/2022 | Current | Approved |
| 2.00 | 26/10/2020 | Replaced | Approved |
| 1.00 | 22/10/2015 | Replaced | Approved |
Description
This qualification has been designed to provide a package of competencies reflecting the responsibilities of a chaplain. The role of the chaplain is principally to do with religious ministry; however, in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) that ministry extends well beyond the community model of a minister of religion. Chaplains remain active members of their denominational church organisation and they cannot continue to practice without the endorsement of their church, yet they are also commissioned members of the ADF. Their role is governed by two disparate yet culturally sympathetic entities, a military chaplain must provide spiritual ministry to all members of Defence, regardless of faith or denomination. This qualification was developed within Defence but could be used by other organisations.
This Diploma is not designed as an entry level qualification but to benchmark additional ADF chaplain skills in the broader aspects of their role beyond those of an ordained minister, including on deployments, exercises and to the wider ADF community.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.
Schedule
Packaging Rules
Ten (10) units of competency are required for this qualification:- Four (4) core units
- Six (6) elective units
Choose a minimum of four (4) elective units from the list below.
Choose the remaining two (2) elective units either from the list below or from elsewhere within this training package, or from another endorsed training package, or from an accredited course.
All elective units selected from outside this qualification must reflect the occupational and learning outcomes of this AQF qualification level. Seek further advice on selecting imported units of competency in the DEF Implementation Guide.
Elective units selected must not duplicate content already covered by other units in this qualification.
1. Core Units
All four (4) units must be completed.
| State Code | National Code | Title | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AVT85 | DEFCHP004 | Conduct and facilitate religious observances and activities | 0 | Unit of competency |
| AVT83 | DEFCHP003 | Plan the delivery of chaplaincy support | 0 | Unit of competency |
| AVT86 | DEFCHP002 | Provide ethical and pastoral advice | 0 | Unit of competency |
| AVT87 | DEFCHP001 | Provide pastoral care | 0 | Unit of competency |
2. Group A Elective Units
A minimum of four (4) units must be chosen from Group A.
Please refer to the packaging rules for the full details of available options.
No information
No information
Entry Requirements
Nil