Army Reserve Lieutenants Graduate New Officer Program in 2025

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Forty Army Reserve lieutenants celebrated their commissioning at Victoria Barracks, Sydney, as the first graduates of the Part-Time Officer Commissioning Program (PTOCP), marking a 

On June 30, 2025, the grassy square at Victoria Barracks in Sydney echoed with the sound of pipes, drums, and applause as 40 Army Reserve lieutenants received their officer pips, marking the inaugural graduation of the Part-Time Officer Commissioning Program (PTOCP). Replacing the former Army Reserve Officer Commissioning Course (AROCC), the PTOCP aligns with the Full-Time Officer Commissioning Program at the Royal Military College – Duntroon (RMC-D), offering a rigorous, flexible training pathway for reservists. Developed over 12 months by the Sydney University Regiment (SUR), the program balances military leadership training with civilian commitments, culminating in a ceremonial parade steeped in Army tradition, according to a Defence Australia statement.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Walsh, overseeing the program, praised the graduates’ professionalism, noting their training, which spanned six to 36 months, equipped them for leadership roles. “The officer cadets have shown remarkable progress and dedication,” he told Mirage News, also commending his team’s resilience in delivering the program under tight constraints. The graduates, now second lieutenants, will serve in units across the Australian Defence Force (ADF), applying skills in personnel management, tactical planning, and operational readiness. The parade, attended by family and friends, featured the traditional pinning of pips on the Parade Ground, followed by a march-past and a reception at the officers’ mess.

The PTOCP’s design reflects a strategic shift to meet modern reservist needs, reducing time away from civilian life while maintaining high standards. Unlike the full-time RMC-D program, it accommodates part-time schedules, ensuring reservists can balance careers and service. Brigadier Doug Laidlaw, in a 2019 Cove article, argued such programs address training gaps, preparing lieutenants for platoon-level command. Critics, however, note that accelerated commissioning can strain junior officers,  questioning if rapid promotions outpace experience. The ADF counters that the program’s structure fosters resilience and adaptability, essential for today’s dynamic security environment. As these new lieutenants step into their roles, their graduation underscores the Army’s commitment to a capable, flexible reserve force ready to meet future challenges.