Meet Casey-Lee: Real Stories from the ADF Air Force

A member of Air Force smiling at camera.

I’ve come to know myself as a stronger, more resilient woman.
Casey-Lee, Human Resources Manager

How it started

Growing up on a cattle farm close to RAAF Base Williamtown, a career in the ADF was always close to home. The idea of a career that was people-centric aligned with my own values, so joining was a really exciting time for me. Coming through the Gap Year Program, I loved that I was able to test the waters before diving straight in. I fell in love with the organisation as well as the people, opportunities and rewarding experiences.

What I do

I originally enlisted as part of the Gap Year program as a Human Resources Advisor (also known as a Personnel Capability Specialist) where I found a love for personnel welfare and an unwavering commitment to service. This led me to step into a leadership based role where I can continue to pursue continuous growth as a Human Resources Manager (also known as a Personnel Capability Officer). In 2024, I undertook training at Officer Training School where I gained the skills to be an inspiring and effective leader.

Proudest moment

I was able to play a part in the Afghanistan repatriation flight returning to Australia. Being able to assist Afghan evacuees as a middle eastern woman in the Australian Defence Force was extremely rewarding and allowed me to exert compassion in an unknown environment.

Months later I was selected to be painted as part of an ADF mural in Nambour. It was an honour to be featured in this.

How it’s made an impact

Being a Human Resources Manager allows me to shape and mentor our most valuable asset – our people. I look forward to working in the recruitment and retention area to assist others in finding the same value in the organisation that I did.

Casey-Lee appears in the latest ADF Careers recruitment campaign ‘Unlike any other Job’.

How I’ve grown

The ADF has developed a sense of self I didn’t know existed. It has strengthened my ethics, values and resilience in more ways than I knew were possible. I’ve come to know myself as a stronger, more resilient woman. Being able to be who I truly am and serve my country simultaneously is something I do not believe I could find in any other organisation.

The ADF has also assisted me in gaining a Master’s Degree in Business Administration that has shaped how I manage organisational needs and respond appropriately.

What I love

The camaraderie and mateship among my peers is second to none. The life experiences it has provided me I would never have been able to obtain elsewhere. I love serving and protecting the nation that has protected me, and feeling supported by my Air Force family in every step I take. It’s a special feeling. In every deployment, exercise and everyday work environment, being a team player is an integral part of mission success.