About Us

Proudly published quarterly, Duty First is the official magazine of the Royal Australian Regiment Association (RARA), delivering essential news and insight from across the Royal Australian Regiment, the Australian Defence Force, and the broader Army community.
For over seventy years, the Royal Australian Regiment has stood at the forefront of Australia’s military capability—our permanent, professional fighting force. Born with the formation of the Regular Army, the Regiment has carried the weight of Australia’s frontline commitments in both war and peace.
As the voice of the Regiment, Duty First keeps you connected to the heart of Army life. Each issue features updates from our 7 active Battalions and 12 Battalion ex-regimental associations, alongside the latest developments in Army operations, veteran affairs, and defence news.
With 5,500 to 6,500 ADF personnel transitioning out of service each year, Duty First also serves as a vital resource—offering practical transition advice, relocation insights, and guidance for life beyond the uniform. Whether you’re on deployment, mid-posting, or preparing for civilian life, Duty First delivers stories and support tailored to your journey.
Stay informed. Stay connected. Duty First—because the mission continues.
Distribution and Readership
Australian Army Bases
Department of Defence
Chief of the Australian Defence Force
Office of Chief of Army
ADF Service Chiefs and their Defence Service Warrant Officers
Australian Army Senior Staff and all army base commands
Prime Minister’s Office
Minister for Defence, Minister of Veterans Affair,
Minister for Defence Industry
Duty First reaches
Australian Army Senior Staff and Base Commands
Defence Intelligence Organisation
Senior Executives in Defence & Industry
Directors & Managers of Defence Projects
The Royal Australian Regiment’s members; 7 serving battalions and 12 battalion associations of ex-regimental
Offices of the following: Open Arms | Transition Centres | Defence Banks | Trans CIV | AAFCANS canteens on Army bases | Defence Force Recruiting | CASA | Defence Science & Technology | Soldier On | Wandering Warriors | Mates4Mates
Various Veterans Associations
Major Events
Duty First has a presence at major events throughout the year:
Land Forces https://landforces.com.au/
AMMA https://www.amma.asn.au/conference/
MilCIS https://www.milcis.com.au/
Duty First magazine offers your company the opportunity to promote and profile your products and services within the Australian Defence Organisation.
Issue Material Deadline Publishing Date
Autumn 26 2nd February 2nd March
Winter 26 4th May 1st June
Spring 26 3rd August 1st September
Summer 26 12th October 16th November


