This qualification has been designed to provide a package of competencies reflecting the responsibilities of a chaplain. The role of the chaplain is principally to do with religious ministry; however, in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) that ministry extends well beyond the community model of a minister of religion. Chaplains remain active members of their denominational church organisation and they cannot continue to practice without the endorsement of their church, yet they are also commissioned members of the ADF. Their role is governed by two disparate yet culturally sympathetic entities, a military chaplain must provide spiritual ministry to all members of Defence, regardless of faith or denomination. This qualification was developed within Defence but could be used by other organisations.

This Diploma is not designed as an entry level qualification but to benchmark additional ADF chaplain skills in the broader aspects of their role beyond those of an ordained minister, including on deployments, exercises and to the wider ADF community.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.