The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) was established to provide military education and training for officer cadets of the three Services and other countries, and concurrent studies at tertiary level under agreement with the University of New South Wales (UNSW).

In 1972 the planning of the Academy was implemented by a group of tri-service personnel.

In May 1981 the Commonwealth and the UNSW signed an agreement which provided, amongst other things, that the University would establish a College within ADFA.  The Interim Academy Council, chaired by Sir Edward Woodward, OBE, QC held its inaugural meeting in June 1982.

In February 1984 the UNSW announced the appointment of Professor G.V.H. Wilson as Rector of the University College.  In April of that year the then Chief of the Defence Force, Air Vice Marshal Sir Neville McNamara, formally established the Academy as a Joint Service Unit under Section 32c of the Defence Act 1903.  He simultaneously announced the appointment of Rear Admiral P.R. Sinclair, RAN as the Commandant.  In September 1985 the Interim Academy Council ceased its functions and the Australian Defence Force Academy Council held its inaugural meeting under the Chairmanship of Sir Edward Woodward.  
 

Historical agency address
Northcott Drive, Campbell ACT
Legislation administered
Australian Defence Force Academy Standing Orders.