Applying for leave

Leave for military activities is usually required to cater for four scenarios:

• Initial Recruit Training (up to 7 weeks);
• Annual Exercises or Camps (up to 2 weeks);
• Specialist Courses (varies by course, up to 12 weeks);
• Deployments (varies, up to 18 months).

Key points when applying for leave from your civilian employer are:

• Plan what leave is required and request it well in advance;
• Schedule an appointment with your manager so that there is time for complete discussion;
• Speak clearly and confidently during discussion;
• Identify to the manager the benefits of the proposed training to you as an individual and to the company that employs you.  For example, highlight skills such as organisational and time management, leadership ability etc. 
• Have your rationale in writing as back up;
• Have a completed leave form ready for signature;
• If the timing for your leave is difficult, have some alternative staffing strategies your manager can consider.