View source for 1st Commando Regiment (Australia)

{{short description|Unit of the Australian Army Reserve}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2019}}
{{Infobox military unit
| unit_name                     = 1st Commando Regiment
| image                         = Insigne 1st Commando Regiment (Australie).svg
| image_size                    = 170px
| caption                       = 1st Commando Regiment cap badge
| dates                         = 24 February 1955 <br><small>(as 1 and 2 Cdo Coy)</small><br>1 February 1981–present <br><small>(as 1st Cdo Regt)</small>
| country                       = {{flag|Australia}}
| branch                        = [[Australian Army Reserve]]
| type                          = [[Special forces]]
| command_structure             = [[Special Forces Group (Australia)|Special Forces Group]]
| role                          = [[Special operations]]
| size                          = One [[regiment]]
* Two commando companies
| current_commander             = 
| garrison                      = [[Sydney]] and [[Melbourne]]
| ceremonial_chief              = 
| ceremonial_chief_label        = Colonel in Chief
| colonel_of_the_regiment       = 
| nickname                      = 
| motto                         = ''Strike Swiftly''
| identification_symbol         = [[File:1st Commando Regiment Unit Colour Patch.svg|150px]]
| identification_symbol_label   = Unit colour patch
| identification_symbol_4       = 1 Cdo Regt
| identification_symbol_4_label = Abbreviation
| colors                        = 
| march                         = 1 Cdo Coy – "Sari&nbsp;Marais"<br>2 Cdo Coy – "Cockleshell&nbsp;Heroes"
| battles                       = [[War in Afghanistan (2001–present)|Afghanistan]]
| notable_commanders            = William "Mac" Grant<br>[[Phillip Bennett]]<br>[[Martin Hamilton-Smith]]<br>Jack H Skipper MC<br>Harry Smith MC
| anniversaries                 = 
}}

The '''1st Commando Regiment''' ('''1 Cdo Regt''') is an [[Australian Army Reserve]] [[special forces]] unit and is part of [[Special Operations Command (Australia)|Special Operations Command]]. The regiment has an integrated structure of regular (full-time) [[Australian Army]] soldiers and reserve (part-time) soldiers. 1st and 2nd Commando companies were raised in 1955 and were combined with 126 Signal Squadron (SF) in 1981 to form the 1st Cdo Regt. The regiment's two commando companies are the oldest sub-units within Special Operations Command. In 2008, the regiment deployed to Afghanistan to become the first Australian Army Reserve force element on combat operations since [[Australian Army during World War II|World War II]]. The regiment is the Command's capability lead for special warfare.{{sfn|Irvine|2020|pp=10,26,34}}{{sfn|Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper|2023|p=15}}<ref name="DailyTeleJun23">{{cite news |last1=Miranda |first1=Charles |title=Army to recreate legendary special force from WWII Z Squad |url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/national/defence-recreates-legendary-z-special-regiment-to-fight-china/news-story/14df3c89a47444d9fc1a700c9fd69c11 |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=[[The Daily Telegraph (Sydney)|The Daily Telegraph]] |date=17 June 2023 |page=5|url-access=subscription}}</ref>

==Role==
The primary role of 1st Commando Regiment is special warfare. It specialises in unconventional warfare, intelligence gathering and working in small teams alongside regional partners.{{sfn|Irvine|2020|pp=10,26,34}}{{sfn|Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper|2023|p=15}}<ref name="FacebookFeb25"/> 

In the early to mid 2020s, the regiment transitioned its primary role to special warfare following a review of Special Operations Command (SOCOMD).{{sfn|Irvine|2020|pp=5,10-11}}<ref name="DailyTeleJun23"/><ref name="FacebookFeb25"/> The regiment's primary role had been the conduct of large scale offensive operations and it had been trained and equipped to carry out commando operations up to company strength.<ref>{{cite web|title=Role – 1st Commando Regiment |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/role.htm |website=Australian Army |publisher=6 January 2006 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060106050106/http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/role.htm |archivedate=6 January 2006 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=1st Commando Regiment |url=https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/special-operations-command/1st-commando-regiment |website=Australian Army |archive-url=https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20170422145535/https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/special-operations-command/1st-commando-regiment |archive-date=22 April 2017 |date=14 December 2016 |url-status=dead}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> One of its roles had always been the ability to carry out special warfare operations such as training regional partners and supporting indigenous forces.{{sfn|Gilby|1996|p=12}}{{sfn|Macrae|1990|p=11}}

During the period from the early 2000s to the early 2010s, combat operations and the evolution of the commando role changed the character of the regiment.<ref name="Army profile">{{cite web|title=1st Commando Regiment|url=http://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment|website=Australian Army|date=29 July 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150716011210/http://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment|archivedate=16 July 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> The regiment revised reserve training following combat operations, to align training standards with the full-time [[2nd Commando Regiment (Australia)|2nd Commando Regiment]] (2 Cdo Regt), and to provide a higher level of readiness for the regiment, however, this affected recruitment due to the long full-time commitment and became optional.<ref name="News Nov">{{cite news|title=An exciting future|url=http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/NewsPapers/Army/editions/1363/1363.pdf|work=Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper|edition=1363|publisher=Department of Defence|location=Canberra|issn=0729-5685|date=5 November 2015 |page=20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160825211407/http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/NewsPapers/Army/editions/1363/1363.pdf |archive-date=25 August 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The regiment revised its training after its primary role changed to special warfare and introduced a special warfare training course for both full-time and reserve soldiers.{{sfn|Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper|2023|p=15}} The colour of its beret was changed to khaki to reflect its new primary role.<ref name="FacebookFeb25"/>

==History==
===Origins===
[[File:Commandos Timbered Knoll.jpg|thumb|left|Australian commandos in New Guinea during World War II]] 
Derived from the South African/Dutch word used by the Boers identifying their irregular sized raiding forces employed against the British during the South African Wars, the term "commando" was adopted by newly formed British raiding forces during World War II, and subsequently used by Australian special units raised to fight in the South-west Pacific and Indian Oceans. By the close of World War II, Australian special forces units included the [[Australian commandos|Independent Companies]] (later Commando Squadrons), [[Z Special Unit]] under [[Special Operations Australia]] and [[M Special Unit]] under [[Allied Intelligence Bureau]].{{sfn|Horner|1989|pp=20-27}}

By the early 1950s, it was deemed necessary by the Army to maintain the techniques and skills that had been developed during the war.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=33,41}} Consequently, on 16 September 1954, the Military Board issued the authority to raise two Citizen Military Force (CMF)<ref group="Note">The name of the CMF was changed to Australian Army Reserve in 1980.</ref> commando companies: the 1 Commando Company (1 Cdo Coy) in Sydney and the 2 Commando Company (2 Cdo Coy) in Melbourne.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=32-34}} Both would be commanded by regular army officers and regular army would form the training and administrative cadre.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=33-34}}<ref name="History"/> The companies were to be independent of each other and report to different commands.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=35}}

The established strength for the companies was to be 265 all ranks, consisting of one major, five captains (three of them platoon commanders), six sergeants and 241 other ranks.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=35}} This establishment was very similar to the Independent Companies of World War II, which had had an establishment of 17 officers and 256 other ranks.{{sfn|Horner|1989|p=22}}

1 Cdo Coy was raised at George's Heights in New South Wales on 24 February 1955; however, the officer commanding, Major William Harold (Mac) Grant decided that the official birthday would be their first parade on 15 July 1955 at [[Victoria Barracks, Sydney|Victoria Barracks]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=82}}<ref name="History">{{cite web|last=Grant|first=Barry|title=A history of the formation of 1 Commando Company|url=http://www.1commando.com/History_files/history.pdf|website=Australian Commando Association New South Wales|publisher=1 Commando Association|date=11 June 2003|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140611094211/http://www.1commando.com/History_files/history.pdf|archive-date=11 June 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> Major Grant was a World War II commando veteran having served in the 2/5 Independent Company and 2/12th Commando Squadron.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Billett|first1=Jan Robert|last2=Denton|first2=MAJ Noel J (Rtd)|title=Dedicated to his country's security|url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/dedicated-to-his-countrys-security-20130822-2se8z.html|work=The Age|date=23 August 2013|accessdate=25 January 2022}}</ref> 2 Cdo Coy was raised in Victoria on 24 February 1955 under the command of Major Peter Seddon and first paraded on 7 July 1955.<ref name="History"/> Seddon was appointed for only 12 months with his successor to be Major Jack Anderson.<ref name="History"/>

In October 1955, Grant and Anderson, along with two Warrant Officers Ernie Tarr and Ron Smith, travelled to the United Kingdom to train with the [[Royal Marines]] (RM).{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=54,66,123}} At the same time, two RM sergeants Mac McDermott and Len Holmes, both [[Special Boat Service]] (SBS) trained, travelled to Australia to provide commando training with Holmes-based with 1 Cdo Coy and McDermott with 2 Cdo Coy.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=51-54,91}}<ref name="History"/>{{refn|In 1955, McDermott and Holmes also provided commando and beach reconnaissance training on the Clearance Diving Course for the Navy's [[Clearance Diving Branch (RAN)|Clearance Diving Branch]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=Linton|first1=Commander E.W. (Jake)|last2=Donohue|first2=Commodore H.J (Hec)|title=United and undaunted : the first 100 years : a history of diving in the Royal Australian Navy 1911–2011|date=2015|publisher=Grinkle Press Pty Ltd|location=Queanbeyan, New South Wales|isbn=9780980282153|pages=46–47}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Pre 1960 |url=http://www.rancd-association.com/old/id22.htm |website=RAN Clearance Divers Association |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150301131918fw_/http://www.rancd-association.com/old/id22.htm |archive-date=1 March 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>|group=Note}} Anderson was killed during the last week of the basic commando course and was replaced by Major John Hutcheson.<ref name="History"/>{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=92}}  In May 1956, Grant and Hutcheson returned to Australia after six months of training having been awarded the green beret by [[42 Commando]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=88,92}}<ref name="History"/> Tarr and Smith undertook 12 months of training, including with the [[Mountain Leader Training Cadre#History|Cliff Assault Wing]] and the SBS, to become training instructors.<ref name="History"/>{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=123}}<ref name="CdoNewsApr16"/>

Grant has said that the defence planning staff convinced the government to form the commando companies with the role "...of conducting clandestine operations similar to those mounted by special operations also those of the Independent Companies/Commando Squadrons. It was envisaged that by raising units capable of performing such a dual role, a pool of trained manpower would be available to be "farmed off" as necessary to a special operations unit while the remainder would be used in more conventional commando operations."{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=41,84}}<ref name="yearbook1">{{cite news|last1=Grant |first1=William 'Mac' |title=Reserve Commandos inherit a remarkable legacy (part 1) |url=http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_21_30.pdf |accessdate=28 July 2016 |work=Defence Reserves Yearbook 2004-2005 |agency=Australian Defence Force |publisher=Executive Media Pty Ltd |url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110602002655/http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_21_30.pdf |archivedate=2 June 2011 }}</ref> The [[Australian Secret Intelligence Service]] had earlier been formed in 1952 within the Department of Defence whose role included ".. plan for and conduct special operations..".<ref>{{cite book|last1=Toohey |last2=Pinwill|first1=Brian |first2=William|title=Oyster: the story of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service|date=1989|publisher=William Heinemann Australia|location=Port Melbourne|isbn=978-0855612504|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iEgwAAAAYAAJ}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Macklin|first1=Robert|title=Warrior Elite: Australia's Special Forces Z Force to the SAS Intelligence Operations to Cyber Warfare|date=2015|publisher=Hachette Australia|location=Sydney, NSW|isbn=9780733632914}}</ref><ref name="yearbook2">{{cite news|last1=Grant |first1=William 'Mac' |title=Reserve Commandos inherit a remarkable legacy (part 2) |url=http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_31_40.pdf |accessdate=28 July 2016 |work=Defence Reserves Yearbook 2004-2005 |agency=Australian Defence Force |publisher=Executive Media Pty Ltd |url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110602002655/http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_31_40.pdf |archivedate=2 June 2011 }}</ref>

Commando courses included basic parachutist, diving, small scale raids, demolitions, climbing and roping and unarmed combat.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=64}} 1 Cdo Coy held the first diving course in 1957 using a pure oxygen re-breather the [[Siebe Gorman CDBA#Other similar rebreathers|Swimmer Canoeist Breathing Apparatus]] borrowed from the [[Clearance Diving Branch (RAN)|Navy]] based on training received from the SBS.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=123-124}}<ref name="CdoNewsApr16">{{cite journal |last1=Murphy |first1=Brian |title=Warrant Officer Class 2 Ernest Charles Tarr |journal=Commando News / Australian Commando Association Inc. |date=April 2016 |issue=Edition 7 |url=https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-News/Commando-News-07.pdf |publisher=Statewide Publishing |location=Surfers Paradise |id=Libraries Australia ID 56517091|pages=10–11 | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20191231170225/https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-News/Commando-News-07.pdf |archivedate=31 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 1957, as the unit already had the designation "1st" within its title, the Army thought it would be a convenient framework on which to re-form the [[First Australian Imperial Force|Australian Imperial Force]]'s [[1st Battalion (Australia)|1st Battalion]].<ref name="History"/> So on 1 December 1957 the unit was re-designated the 1st Infantry Battalion (Commando), keeping this title until 22 August 1966 when the unit was renamed the 1st Battalion, The Royal New South Wales Regiment (Commando), City of Sydney's Own Regiment.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=62,75}}<ref name="History"/> Finally in May 1973 the unit name at last changed back to the former designation of the 1 Commando Company.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=174}}<ref name="History"/> In 1958, the 1st Commando Company provided the initial training for the recently formed [[Special Air Service Regiment|1st Special Air Service Company]], the Royal Australian Regiment.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=65}}

On the evening of 17 February 1960, 74 commandos from 2 Cdo Coy set off in kayaks, amphibious DUKW (ducks) and zodiacs on a training exercise from Point Lonsdale to Point Nepean in Victoria simulating a raid on the officer cadet school which involved them crossing the infamous Rip at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay. The weather changed without warning and the watercraft were swept out to sea through the Port Phillip Heads encountering massive seas that capsized most watercraft. Nearly all commandos were rescued except three who drowned.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=99-102}}<ref>{{cite news|title=Rip inquest is told of 'turn-back' order|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1300&dat=19600601&id=gZ8UAAAAIBAJ&sjid=TasDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6884,50148&hl=en|work=The Age|date=1 June 1960}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Higgins |first1=Barry |title=The Rip |url=http://www.cdoassoc.com/2Commando/TheRip.htm |website=Australian Commando Association |accessdate=9 September 2012 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120903231200/http://www.cdoassoc.com/2Commando/TheRip.htm |archivedate=3 September 2012 }}</ref> 2nd Commando Company developed a Mountain Leader's Course in ski patrolling, as well as rock, ice and snow climbing.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=104}}

In 1968, 2 Cdo Coy moved to [[Fort Gellibrand]] at Williamstown from [[Ripponlea, Victoria|Ripponlea]]. The company had originally been based at [[Sandringham, Victoria|Sandringham]] then sometime between 1957 and 1958 moved to [[HMAS Cerberus (naval base)|HMAS Cerberus]] before moving to Ripponlea in 1958.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=84,93-94,106-107}}<ref>{{cite journal |title=A brief history of the 2 Commando Company depots|journal=Commando News / Australian Commando Association Inc. |date=2020 |issue=Edition 3 |url=https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-Magazine/Commando-edition-3-2020-hi-res-pdf.pdf |publisher=Statewide Publishing |location=Surfers Paradise |id=Libraries Australia ID 56517091|page=16 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20210321085450/https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-Magazine/Commando-edition-3-2020-hi-res-pdf.pdf |archivedate=21 March 2021 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===301st and 126th Signal Squadrons===
The requirement for long-range communications can be traced back to WWII and units such as [[Coastwatchers]], [[New Guinea Air Warning Wireless|New Guinea Air Warning Wireless Company]], the [[Australian commandos#History|Independent Companies]], and [[Z Special Unit]].{{sfn|Larner|Lorrain|2000}} On 30 April 1958, a decision was made to raise No 1 Independent Signals Squadron to support clandestine operations and this led to the formation of 301st Signal Squadron (Home Defence) in 1960 at [[Lidcombe, New South Wales]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=131}} This new squadron was to meet the requirement for 'special communications' and was charged with the responsibility of providing long-range communications for commando-type operations and was augmented with regular army members in 1963.{{sfn|Larner|Lorrain|2000}} In December 1964, 301st Signal Squadron was re-designated 126th Signal Squadron, later to 126th Signal Squadron (Special Forces) in January 1966 and subsequently relocated to Albert Park, Victoria and in 1972 to [[Simpson Barracks]] in Watsonia, Victoria.{{sfn|Larner|Lorrain|2000}} [[Women's Royal Australian Army Corps|Women]] had been serving in the signals squadron since 1964 as [[cipher]] clerks and from 1968 as radio operators.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=133,140}} In 1978, the signals squadron was provided with approval to wear the green beret with the [[Royal Australian Corps of Signals|Corps of Signals]] badge.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=132,148}}{{sfn|Larner|Lorrain|2000}} In 1981, signaller Kerry Hiam became the first woman to qualify and be awarded a green beret.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=134,191}}{{sfn|Larner|Lorrain|2000}}

===Borneo and Vietnam===
Prior to formation as a regiment, the sub units deployed individuals and small teams to the [[Military history of Australia during the Indonesia–Malaysia confrontation|Borneo confrontation]] and the [[Military history of Australia during the Vietnam War|Vietnam War]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=134,137-140,155-168}} During the Borneo confrontation, Sergeant Ted Blacker of 126th Signal Squadron (Special Forces) was awarded the [[British Empire Medal]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=140}} From 1965 the Commando Companies contributed numerous instructors, including from their reserve part-time component, to the [[Australian Army Training Team Vietnam]] (AATTV).<ref>{{cite web|title=Lt Colonel Harry Smith SG MC (Retired) – Officer Commanding D Coy, 6RAR|url=http://battleoflongtan.reddunefilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Long-Tan-Harry-Smith-Biography.pdf|website=Battle of Long Tan Blog|accessdate=25 May 2016|archive-date=24 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624194419/http://battleoflongtan.reddunefilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Long-Tan-Harry-Smith-Biography.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> Two lost their lives with the AATTV, with Warrant Officer Class II John Durrington being killed in action, and Warrant Officer Class II Ron Scott dying of wounds. Whilst serving with the AATTV, Warrant Officer Class II [[Ray Simpson (VC)|Ray Simpson]], formerly from both the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and the 1st Commando Company, was awarded the [[Victoria Cross]] for an action in the Kontum Province on 6 May 1969.<ref name="History"/>{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=164}}

===Formation of Regimental Headquarters===
All sub-units operated independently, training Army Reserve commandos and special forces signalers until 1981 when it was determined a regimental headquarters was required.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=185}} This headquarters would coordinate the efforts of the previously independent units and provide the east coast command element for the newly established counter-terrorist capability within the SASR. {{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=185,187}} The headquarters was established on 1 February 1981 and from 1 July 1981 was based at [[Randwick Barracks]] in [[Randwick|Randwick, New South Wales]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=185,187}} 126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces) was renamed 126 Signal Squadron.<ref>{{cite web |title=Memory Lane |url=http://www.austcdoassocvic.com/126SigSqn/info1.htm |website=126 Signal Squadron Association |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140430030535/http://www.austcdoassocvic.com/126SigSqn/info1.htm |archive-date=30 April 2014 |url-status=usurped |date=January 2004}}</ref>

In 1991, a 1 Cdo Coy commando who had joined the British Army [[Special Air Service]] was in the well-known [[Bravo Two Zero]] patrol in Iraq as part of [[Gulf War|Operation Desert Storm]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=195}}

In 1992, 126 Signal Squadron qualified signallers were given approval to wear the commando badge.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=223}}

Commencing in February 1997, 1 Cdo Regt provided the initial training for the re-role of the [[4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment]] (4RAR) from an infantry battalion into commando [[2nd Commando Regiment (Australia)|4RAR (Cdo)]] raising the Commando Training Wing (the predecessor to the Special Forces Training Centre) commanded by Major Hans Fleer.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=230,243-247,271}}

In July 1997, three women officers, Lieutenants Fellows, Warren-Smith and Woods, became the first women to complete the commando officer selection course.<ref name="ArmyNews1997">{{cite news|last=Cross |first=Paul |title=Elite women make history |url=http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267359276|work=Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper |date=10 July 1997 |edition=933 |publisher=Department of Defence |location=Canberra |issn=0729-5685 |access-date=1 November 2023 |page=3}}</ref>{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=235}}<ref>{{cite AV media|date=9 August 1997|title=Female Green Berets|medium=Television production|work=[[A Current Affair (Australian TV program)|A Current Affair]]|publisher=Nine Network}}</ref> The women were barred from serving in combat roles.<ref name="ArmyNews1997"/>

In 1998, the Army dropped plans to raise a third reserve company in [[Queensland]] for the regiment due to a lack of resources.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=248}}

In September 1999, 126 Signal Squadron became an independent unit providing support to 1 Cdo Regt and 4RAR Cdo reporting directly to Headquarters Special Operations.<ref>{{cite news |title=Cdos gain sigs unit |url=http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267229191 |work=Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper |date=16 September 1999 |edition=985 |publisher=Department of Defence |location=Canberra |issn=0729-5685 |access-date=1 November 2023 |page=5}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Mulholland |first=Lorraine |title=Commando sig unit raised |url=http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267231271 |work=Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper |date=30 September 1999 |edition=986 |publisher=Department of Defence |location=Canberra |issn=0729-5685 |access-date=1 November 2023 |page=16}}</ref> In 2000, the squadron transitioned to a Regular Army unit based at [[Holsworthy Barracks]] under the command of 4RAR Cdo.<ref name="1Cdo2012">{{cite web |title=1st Commando Regiment |url=http://www.army.gov.au/Who-we-are/Divisions-and-Brigades/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment |website=Australian Army |access-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120227113712/http://www.army.gov.au/Who-we-are/Divisions-and-Brigades/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment |archive-date=27 February 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> In June 2002, 301 Signal Squadron was re-raised at Randwick Barracks to provide communications and information systems and electronic warfare to facilitate the command and control of special operations conducted by the regiment.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=265}}<ref>{{cite web |title=History of 1 Commando Regiment |url=http://www.army.gov.au/1commando/history.htm |website=Australian Army |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040327223335/http://www.army.gov.au/1commando/history.htm |archive-date=27 March 2004 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

In 2006, 1 Cdo Coy relocated from Georges Heights in Mosman to [[HMAS Penguin]] in Balmoral.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Brooke|first1=Michael|title=Commando collocation |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews/editions/1136/topstories/story13.htm|work=Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper|edition=1136|date=9 February 2006|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110404162507/http://www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews/editions/1136/topstories/story13.htm|archivedate=4 April 2011|publisher=Department of Defence|location=Canberra|issn=0729-5685}}</ref>

===Recent operations===
[[File:Bushmaster Afghanistan snow Jan 2010.jpg|thumb|right|Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan during 2009-10 winter with [[Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle|Bushmaster]] vehicle]]

In recent years, the regiment has provided small detachments and individuals to peacekeeping missions.<ref name="Army profile"/> Deployments in the region, include to [[Autonomous Region of Bougainville|Bougainville]] as part of [[Peace Monitoring Group|Operation Bel-Isi]],{{sfn|Collins|2005|pages=261-262}} to Timor Leste ([[East Timor]]) in 2001 as part of [[United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor|Operation Tanager]] with the regiment providing a substantial reinforcement to A Company 4RAR (Cdo), which had been re-roled from commando to light infantry, of one officer and forty-one Regular Army and Army Reserve commandos,{{sfn|Collins|2005|pages=252-255}}<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Martinelli |first1=Lt. Peter |title=Special Operations Command: Mission rehearsal provides explosive reality |journal=Defence Magazine |date=2009 |issue=9 |page=41 |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/defencemagazine/editions/2009_9/defmag_0909.pdf |publisher=Department of Defence |issn=1446-229X |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405034533/http://www.defence.gov.au/defencemagazine/editions/2009_9/defmag_0909.pdf|archive-date=5 April 2012| url-status=dead}}</ref>{{sfn|Horner|Bou|2008|pages=316-317}} and to the [[Solomon Islands]] as part of [[Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands|Operation Anode]].{{sfn|Collins|2005|page=261}}

In May 2006, following unrest in Timor Leste, a Special Forces component consisting of a commando company from 4RAR Cdo and a SASR troop deployed to Timor Leste as peacekeepers as part of [[Operation Astute]].{{sfn|Blaxland|2014|pages=198,201}}<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Farrell |first=John Hunter |title=Dili Madness: The ANZAC Intervention in Timor Leste |magazine=Australian & NZ Defender |publisher=Fullbore Magazines |issue=55 |date=Spring 2006 |page=34 |issn=1322-039X}}</ref> The Special Forces component was later reduced and supplemented by 1 Cdo Regt teams often commanded by a member of the 1 Cdo Regt.{{Citation needed|date=April 2021}} In March 2007, the Special Forces component was bolstered to form an Apprehension Task Group with the purpose of apprehending ex-Timorese Army Major and rebel leader, [[Alfredo Reinado]], at the request of the Timor Leste government.<ref name="A&NZD2007">{{cite magazine |title=Timor ANZAC Battle Group |magazine=Australian & NZ Defender |publisher=Fullbore Magazines |issue=58 |date=Winter 2007 |pages=25–26 |issn=1322-039X}}</ref>{{sfn|Blaxland|2014|page=203}} Reinado was located in the village of Same and approval was given to assault his compound.<ref name="A&NZD2007"/> Reinado evaded capture but four of his men were killed in the [[Battle of Same|battle]].<ref name="A&NZD2007"/> For the commandos of the 1 Cdo Regt who participated in the mission the battle was the first combat seen by the unit (at greater than individual level).{{Citation needed|date=April 2021}} Over a hundred Army Reserve commandos from the regiment served in Operation Astute during this period.{{sfn|Blaxland|2014|page=204}}

In late 2008, the regiment deployed an entire Commando Company Group to the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) in [[Afghanistan]] during the Afghan winter as part of [[Operation Slipper]] to relieve the SOTG that had up until then consisted of rotating SASR and 2 Cdo Regt elements.<ref name="Contact">{{cite journal |title=1st Commando Regiment |journal=Contact Air Land & Sea |date=December 2014 |issue=44 |page=46 |url=https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/free_contact/contact44/con44_pdf.pdf |access-date=29 October 2023 |publisher=Contact Publishing |location=Minnamurra, New South Wales |issn=1449-2385}}</ref><ref name="ArmySOTG"/>{{sfn|IGADF|2020|pages=26,252-253}} This constituted the first deployment of an Australian Army Reserve Force Element on combat operations since World War II.<ref name="1Cdo2012"/><ref name="Contact"/> The composition of the SOTG was structured into elements with the regiment's contribution designated Force Element Charlie.<ref name="IGADF2020">{{cite journal |title=Afghanistan Inquiry Report |journal=Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force |date=2020 |pages=26, 253 |url=https://www.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-10/IGADF-Afghanistan-Inquiry-Public-Release-Version.pdf |access-date=25 October 2023 |publisher=Commonwealth of Australia |ref={{sfnref|IGADF|2020}} |issn=2207-6069}}</ref> Force Element Charlie provided the main SOTG element for the following winter rotations in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 conducting population centric operations.{{sfn|IGADF|2020|page=26}}<ref>{{cite press release|title=One Commando Regiment Army Reservists reach out to Oruzgan |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/media/DepartmentalTpl.cfm?CurrentId=10046|archive-url=http://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20110604230102/http://www.defence.gov.au/media/DepartmentalTpl.cfm?CurrentId=10046|url-status=dead|archive-date=4 June 2011|website=Department of Defence|date=16 March 2010 |id=MECC 67/10}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref name="Contact"/> The regiment also contributed commandos to the 2 Cdo Regt to reinforce their element designated Force Element Bravo.{{sfn|IGADF|2020|page=26}}<ref name="Contact"/> The regiment served in six SOTG rotations.<ref name="ArmySOTG">{{cite web|title=Operation Slipper – Where did people deploy from?|url=http://www.army.gov.au/Our-history/History-in-Focus/Operation-Slipper/Deployed-personnel-by-location|website=Australian Army|accessdate=25 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161010184413/http://www.army.gov.au/Our-history/History-in-Focus/Operation-Slipper/Deployed-personnel-by-location|archive-date=10 October 2016|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> A rotation ranged between four and five months.<ref name="Contact"/>

The first Afghan deployment was composed of 1 Cdo Coy personnel supplemented by 2 Cdo Coy personnel for SOTG Rotation VIII.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Significant Commando Dates October to December |journal=Commando News / Australian Commando Association Inc. |date=November 2024 |issue=Edition 20 |url=https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/69391129/commando-news-magazine-edition-20-nov-2024 |publisher=Statewide Publishing |location=Surfers Paradise |id=Libraries Australia ID 56517091|page=17}}</ref>{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=35}} It was commanded by the Major OC 1 Cdo Coy and arrived in November 2008 for a four-month tour of duty until February 2009.<ref>{{cite report |author=Vice Admiral RANR Christopher Ritchie | author-link=Chris Ritchie |title=Inquiry Officer's Report into Matters Relating to the Force Preparation, Training, Certification and Leadership Associated with the Force Element Identified in the Inquiry Officer's Report into the Death of Lieutenant M.K.H. Fussell |url=https://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102a.pdf |publisher=Department of Defence |date=23 July 2009| pages=3, 4, 19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708143944/https://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102a.pdf|archive-date=8 July 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> On 27 November 2008, Lieutenant Michael Fussell, a specialist Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) from 4RAR Cdo serving in the Commando Company Group, was killed in action after he stood on an IED during a night infiltration onto a target.<ref>{{cite report |author=Col. T.J. McCullagh |title=Inquiry Officer's Report into the Death of Lieutenant M.K.H. Fussell in Afghanistan on 27th November 2008 |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102b.pdf |publisher=Department of Defence |pages=4-5, 7-8 |date=23 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708143958/http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102b.pdf |archive-date=8 July 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Following Fussell's death several senior personnel asked to be relieved of their positions due to concerns over the Major and after an inquiry into the death, the Major was relieved of his command and returned to Australia.<ref name="SMH leadership Failings">{{cite news|last1=Hyland|first1=Tom|title=Deadly Afghan raids expose leadership Failings|url=http://www.smh.com.au/world/deadly-afghan-raids-expose-leadership-failings-20100320-qn9t.html|accessdate=10 July 2016|work=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|date=21 March 2010}}</ref> The inquiry raised issues into the Commando Company Group outside the scope of its terms that instigated the appointment of Vice Admiral (retired) [[Chris Ritchie]] to conduct a further inquiry that found that the Group had been inadequately trained and prepared for its deployment, and that concerns over the Major's leadership should have been acted on before the Group deployed.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Nicholson|first1=Brendan|title=Major sacked after soldier's death|url=http://www.smh.com.au/national/major-sacked-after-soldiers-death-20091102-htgt.html|work=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]]|date=2 November 2009|accessdate=10 July 2016}}</ref>

On 4 January 2009, the regiment suffered its first combat fatality when Private Gregory Sher (2 Cdo Coy) was killed by a rocket attack into a patrol base. On 12 February 2009, the Group conducted a night compound clearance in the Sorkh Morghab region with elements of the [[Afghan National Army]] and with Afghan interpreters.<ref name="Story1">{{cite news|last1=Grasswill |last2=Davis|first1=Helen |first2=Sharon|title=Australian Story: Former commando 'can't atone' for special forces raid that killed Afghan children|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-23/soldier's-story-exposes-serious-flaws-in-deadly-adf-raid/7435548|website=ABC News|publisher=Australian Story|accessdate=23 October 2016|date=25 May 2016}}</ref><ref name="Transcript">{{cite news|title=Into The Fog Of War Part One - Transcript|url=http://www.abc.net.au/austory/content/2015/s4418759.htm|work=Australian Story|publisher=ABC|date=23 May 2016|access-date=23 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024023213/http://www.abc.net.au/austory/content/2015/s4418759.htm|archive-date=24 October 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> Corporal W saw, through a window, a male holding an AK-47 rifle pointed at a door that his team was preparing to use to enter the room to clear and fired at him through the window with his rifle.<ref name="Transcript" /><ref name="SMH Fog">{{cite news|last1=Hyland|first1=Tom|title=Lost in the fog of war|url=http://www.smh.com.au/national/lost-in-the-fog-of-war-20120211-1sybr.html|accessdate=23 October 2016|work=Sydney Morning Herald|date=12 February 2012}}</ref> The male returned fire and ignored calls made for him to come out. With fire continuing, and the team being unable to retreat, two grenades were thrown by Lance Corporal M to clear the room.<ref name="Story1" /><ref name="Transcript" /><ref name="SMH Fog" /> The room was entered, whereupon soldiers found women and children present, with five fatalities (three children and two babies) having been inflicted, along with the male, Amrullah Khan, a farmer whose family claimed had no affiliation with the Taliban.<ref name="SMH leadership Failings" /><ref name="Story1" /><ref name="SMH Fog" /> The Australian Director of Military Prosecutions, Brigadier [[Lyn McDade]], decided to charge two members of the regiment, Sergeant J, who gave the order to use grenades, and Lance Corporal M, who threw the grenades, with manslaughter as a result of an investigation into the engagement, coming to the view that they ought to have known, and during the attack then certainly have been aware that women and children were in the room.<ref name="SMH Fog" /><ref>{{cite web|title=Statement by the Director of Military Prosecutions - Media Release|url=http://www.defence.gov.au/media/2010/release1.htm|website=Department of Defence|accessdate=10 July 2016}}</ref><ref name="Story2">{{cite news|last1=Davis |last2=Grasswill|first1=Sharon |first2=Helen|title=Australian commandos' role in deaths of five Afghan children questioned|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-14/new-controversy-about-australian-commando-role-in-child-deaths/7414290|website=ABC News|publisher=Australian Story|accessdate=23 October 2016|date=22 May 2016}}</ref> The charges against the two soldiers were dismissed pre-trial by the Judge Advocate in June 2011.<ref name="SMH Fog" /><ref name="Story2" /><ref name="Afghan deaths">{{cite web|last1=Oakes|first1=Dan|title=Afghan deaths case closed|url=http://www.smh.com.au/national/afghan-deaths-case-closed-20110817-1iy9e.html|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|date=17 August 2011|publisher=18 August 2011|accessdate=10 July 2016}}</ref> Charges against Lieutenant Colonel M, who based in Kandahar ordered the clearance of the compound, were withdrawn in August 2011 for disobeying standard operating procedures to prevent innocent Afghan nationals in their homes being wrongfully targeted.<ref name="SMH Fog" /><ref name="Story2" /><ref name="Afghan deaths" />

==Customs and traditions==
In February 2025, the Special Warfare khaki beret became the primary headdress.<ref name="FacebookFeb25">{{cite web |title=1st Commando Regiment Beret Parade |url=https://www.facebook.com/SOCOMD/posts/pfbid02JjWkxBLisuEC8E1fBWSqUmMXdzCUzRfKjmVCHgBEYhuw2iATCgxDwbZ4jaub7h5Hl |website=[[Special Operations Command (Australia)|Special Operations Command Australia]] Facebook page |via=Facebook |access-date=28 February 2025 |date=27 February 2025}}</ref> Prior to this, the Sherwood Green Commando beret was worn as the primary headdress, formally recognising Commando qualification. The Army sought permission from the Royal Marines to wear the green beret which was provided on 27 July 1955 by the Commandant Royal Marines.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=36}} The first green beret awarded in Australia was presented to Captain George Cardy of 1st Commando Company on 14 July 1956.{{sfn|Collins|2005|pp=60-61}}

The Director of Infantry advised that the Infantry Corps badge should not be worn and that the commandos should have their own badge.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=37}} A regimental badge was created featuring a silver World War II-era fighting knife surmounted by a gold boomerang engraved with the regimental motto "Strike Swiftly".{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=88}} The motto was conceived by Major Mac Grant, the first commander of 1st Commando Company, from reading the book "Swiftly They Struck" and agreed to by Major Peter Seddon, his opposite number in the 2nd Commando Company.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=88}}<ref name="History"/> The badge was a combination of two proposals from a competition, one from Melbourne and one from Sydney, conceived by Grant with agreement from Seddon.{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=88}}<ref name="History"/> Members wear a Garter Blue lanyard on the left shoulder of dress uniforms in common with the other combat units of SOCOMD.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Terrett|first1=Leslie|last2=Taubert|first2=Stephen|title=Preserving our Proud Heritage: The Customs and Traditions of the Australian Army|date=2015|publisher=Big Sky Publishing|location=Newport, New South Wales|isbn=9781925275544|page=117|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6-P2tAEACAAJ}}</ref> In 1991, distinctive black and green commando parachute wings were adopted and are now worn by all parachute qualified commandos.{{sfn|O'Connor|2005|p=118}}{{sfn|Collins|2005|p=223}}

While there is no direct lineage to the 1st Battalion, AIF, other than in the 1st Commando Company's renaming to the 1st Battalion (Commando), the regiment retains the colours of the battalion's World War I colour patch – black over green – which are highlighted on the current 1 Cdo Regt flag.<ref>{{cite web|title=1st Commando Regiment|url=http://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment|website=Australian Army|date=18 November 2019|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200313202234/https://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment|archivedate=13 March 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Organisation==
The Regiment consists of a headquarters, two commando companies and a signals squadron with a strength about 450.<ref name="yearbook2"/> It is organised as follows:
* Regimental Headquarters located at [[Randwick Barracks]] in [[Randwick|Randwick, New South Wales]]
* 1 Commando Company (1 Cdo Coy) located at [[HMAS Penguin (naval base)|HMAS Penguin]] in [[Balmoral, New South Wales]]
* 2 Commando Company (2 Cdo Coy) located in the historic Fort Gellibrand at [[Williamstown, Victoria]] 
* 301 Signal Squadron (301 Sig Sqn) headquarters at [[Randwick Barracks]] and elements of the squadron are located with 1 Cdo Coy, 2 Cdo Coy, Canberra and the [[Special Operations Engineer Regiment (Australia)|Special Operations Engineer Regiment]]{{sfn|Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals|2015}}

Each commando company consists of a headquarters, two commando platoons, a reconnaissance platoon, a training platoon and integral combat service support elements.<ref name="Intro1Cdo">{{cite web|title=Introduction – 1st Commando Regiment |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/Army/1commando/Intro.htm |website=Australian Army |date=2004 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20050307002101/http://www.defence.gov.au/Army/1commando/Intro.htm|archivedate=7 March 2005|url-status=dead}}</ref> Combat elements of the regiment typically operate in platoon to company sized force elements. These will be force tailored by requirement and may not fit any doctrinal size or command and control. The signal squadron has the largest full-time contingent in the regiment.{{sfn|Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals|2015}}

Reserve support roles include clerical, logistics, transport, medical, intelligence, linguistics and information systems.<ref name="News Nov"/>

==Equipment==
1 Cdo Regt is equipped similar to 2 Cdo Regt with a range of weapon systems that allows it to tailor requirements based on mission needs.<ref name="Intro1Cdo"/> These include the [[M4 carbine|M4A1]] 5.56mm carbine,{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=149}} which can fitted with a [[M203 grenade launcher|M203]] 40&nbsp;mm grenade launcher,{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=148}} and the [[Heckler & Koch USP]] 9mm pistol as primary weapons. Specialist weapons include the [[Heckler & Koch HK417]] 7.62mm rifle, [[Heckler & Koch MP5|Heckler & Koch MP5SD]] silenced submachine gun, [[Accuracy International Arctic Warfare|Accuracy International SR98]] 7.62mm sniper rifle, [[Knight's Armament Company SR-25|SR-25]] 7.62mm sniper rifle{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=226}} and [[Barrett M82]] 12.7mm anti-materiel rifle. Support weapons include the [[FN Minimi|Minimi]] 5.56mm light machine gun,<ref>{{cite news |title=Historic base opens doors to employers |url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/267106217 |work=Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper |edition=901 |date=4 April 1996 |page=19 |publisher=Department of Defence |location=Canberra, Australia |issn=0729-5685}}</ref> [[FN Minimi#Minimi 7.62|Maximi]] 7.62mm machine gun, [[FN MAG|MAG 58]] 7.62mm medium machine gun,{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=141}} [[M2 Browning|M2HB QCB]] 12.7mm heavy machine gun,{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=84}} [[Carl Gustav recoilless rifle|M3 Carl Gustav]] 84mm anti-tank weapon,{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=141}} [[Mk 47 Striker]] automatic grenade launcher, [[FGM-148 Javelin|Javelin]] anti-tank weapon, and the [[M72 LAW]] 66mm rocket launcher{{sfn|Mullins|2011|p=84}} The primary commando watercraft is the [[Combat Rubber Raiding Craft|Zodiac F470]] inflatable boat.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=McBean|first=Graham|title=Water Ops|url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/29994466|magazine=Army magazine|date=December 1996|issue=29|page=14 |issn=1034-3695|publisher=Australian Army Newspaper Unit}}</ref>

==Recruitment==
{{Update|section|date=March 2025}}
[[File:1st Commando Company.jpg|thumb|right|Commandos from 1st Commando Company parachute with inflatable boats from an RAAF C-130H into Shoalwater Bay during an exercise in 2001]]

The regiment is the only reserve SOCOMD combat unit providing reservists based in the [[eastern states of Australia]] the opportunity to serve in a commando unit. Additionally, the regiment provides discharging Regular Army SOCOMD soldiers the opportunity to continue to serve in SOCOMD in a reserve capacity on their return to civilian life.<ref name="News Nov"/> Before the raising of 2 Cdo Regt, the regiment's Regular Army [[Cadre (military)|cadre]] consisted of soldiers transferred from the SASR.{{sfn|Rottman|1989|p=32}}

Changes introduced to reserve training after combat operations in Afghanistan, required candidates to complete the 332-day continuous full-time Commando Initial Employment Training course the same as their 2 Cdo Regt Regular Army counterparts. However, this provided reserve candidates with the opportunity to consider service in the Regular Army with 2 Cdo Regt with many candidates destined for the regiment instead choosing 2 Cdo Regt. Also, the long full-time commitment discouraged Reservists from considering joining the regiment.<ref name="News Nov"/>

In 2015, ''Army: the soldiers' newspaper'' reported the regiment had begun its biggest reserve recruitment drive in over 10 years. A training regime similar to the one prior to Afghanistan operations, was introduced with candidates after completing the selection course posted to the regiment and given a three-year term to complete training.<ref name="News Nov"/> The regiment was also re-raising training platoons in each of the commando companies to host Army Reserve aspirants training for selection.<ref name="News Nov"/>

In addition, in 2016 ''Australian Infantry Magazine'' reported that direct civilian recruiting would recommence with prospective commandos undergoing [[Army Recruit Training Centre|Reserve Recruit Training Course]] at [[Kapooka, New South Wales|Kapooka]] before parading at the regiment in the training platoon to prepare to complete the Infantry Initial Employment Training (IET) to became a qualified Infantry rifleman the same as serving Reservists in the training platoons.<ref>{{cite journal|title=1 Commando Regiment in Focus|journal=Australian Infantry Magazine|issue=April 2016-October 2016|issn=1447-5545}}</ref><ref name="Job">{{cite web|title=Commando Employment Training|url=http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/army/jobs/Commando/EmploymentTraining/|website=Defence Jobs|publisher=Department of Defence|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151221224613/http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/army/jobs/Commando/EmploymentTraining/|archive-date=21 December 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Training options – 1st Commando Regiment |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/trainingoptions.htm |website=Australian Army |publisher=6 January 2006 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060106071016/http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/trainingoptions.htm |archivedate=6 January 2006 }}</ref>

==Selection and training==
{{Update|section|date=March 2025}}
[[File:1st Commando Regiment soldier jumping out of an Australian Army blackhawk helicopter in 2013.jpg|thumb|right|A Commando [[helocast]]ing from a Black Hawk helicopter into Shoalwater Bay during Exercise Talisman Saber 2013]]

To prepare for selection, training platoon candidates have 12 months to complete the Special Forces Reserve Training Program, based on the 2 Cdo Regt Special Forces Direct Recruitment 12-week Special Forces Accelerated Infantry Training Program, including the 17-week Commando Physical Training Package.<ref name="Job"/><ref name="Job2019">{{cite web |title=Commando - Reserve (Part Time) |url=https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/jobs/reserves/army/commando |website=Defence Jobs |publisher=Department of Defence |archive-url=http://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20190509113706/https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/jobs/reserves/army/commando |archive-date=9 May 2019 |url-status=dead |access-date=23 May 2023 }}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

The first stage of selection is to successfully pass the one-day Special Forces Entry Test.<ref name="Job"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Special Forces Screen Test|url=http://2commando.gov.au/careers/special-forces-screen-test|website=2nd Commando Regiment – Defence Jobs|accessdate=25 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160501074937/http://2commando.gov.au/careers/special-forces-screen-test|archive-date=2016-05-01|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Job2019"/> The second stage of selection is successfully completing the Commando Selection Course conducted over two weeks.<ref name="Job"/><ref name="Job2019"/>

Commando Initial Employment training (also called the "reinforcement cycle") commences after successful completion of the Commando Selection Course. Candidates have three years to successfully complete the course.<ref name="News Nov"/><ref name="Job"/><ref name="Job2019"/> This cycle consists of numerous courses including: the "Special Forces Weapons Course, Advanced Close Quarter Battle Course, Commando Team Tactics Course, Commando Urban Operations Course, Close Quarter Fighting Course, Commando Demolitions and Breaching Course, Special Forces Basic Parachute Course (including water insertion training), Commando Amphibious Operators Course, Special Forces Military Roping Course, and Combat First Aid or Special Forces Signal Course".<ref name="Job"/><ref name="Job2019"/> Candidates have the option of completing the reinforcement cycle over 12 months full-time training with their 2 Cdo Regt counterparts.<ref name="Job"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Reinforcement Training|url=http://2commando.gov.au/careers/reinforcement-training|website=2nd Commando Regiment – Defence Jobs|accessdate=25 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160516154507/http://2commando.gov.au/careers/reinforcement-training|archive-date=2016-05-16|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Job2019"/>

After the successful completion of Commando Initial Employment Training, the Green beret is awarded and reservists will report to the regiment on a frequent basis to maintain their skills. As a qualified Commando there are specialist courses available to complete, including but not limited to: advanced driving, mortars, cold weather / mountaineering, language training and free fall parachuting.<ref name="Job"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Specialist Training|url=http://2commando.gov.au/careers/specialist-training|website=2nd Commando Regiment – Defence Jobs|accessdate=25 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160516135113/http://2commando.gov.au/careers/specialist-training|archive-date=2016-05-16|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Job2019"/>

In 2013, a four-hour documentary ''Commando'', focusing mainly on the 2 Cdo Regt, was produced detailing the Commando selection and reinforcement training processes.<ref>{{cite web|title=Commando|url=http://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/the-screen-guide/t/commando-2013/32973/|website=Screen Australia|accessdate=2 July 2016}}</ref>

New signallers to 301st Signal Squadron have to complete the Special Forces Signaller Course (SFSC).{{sfn|Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals|2015}}

==Notes==
===Footnotes===
{{reflist|group=Note}}

=== Citations ===
{{reflist|30em}}

==References==
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite news|url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/31736948 |title=New SF category |newspaper=[[Army (newspaper)|Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper]] |edition=1548 |date=23 November 2023 |publisher=Department of Defence |location=Canberra |issn=0729-5685 |ref=CITEREFArmy:_The_Soldiers'_Newspaper2023 |access-date=15 November 2025}}
* {{cite book|last=Blaxland |first=John |author-link=John Blaxland (historian) |title=The Australian Army from Whitlam to Howard |year=2014 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |location=Port Melbourne, Victoria |isbn=9781107043657}}
* {{cite book|last1=Collins|first1=Peter|title=Strike Swiftly: The Australian Commando Story|date=2005|publisher=Watermark Press|location=Sydney|isbn=978-0949284709}}
* {{cite magazine|last=Gilby |first=Sgt Noel |title=Commandos |url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/267385423/29994464 |magazine=Army magazine |date=December 1996 |issue=29 |issn=1034-3695 |publisher=Australian Army Newspaper Unit |access-date=5 March 2025 |via=[[Trove]]}}
* {{cite book|editor-last1=Horner |editor-first1=David |editor-link1=David Horner |editor-last2=Bou |editor-first2=Jean |year=2008 |title=Duty First: A History of the Royal Australian Regiment |edition=Second |publisher=Allen & Unwin |location=Crows Nest, New South Wales |isbn=9781741753745}}
* {{cite book|last=Horner |first=David |title=SAS: Phantoms of the Jungle—A History of the Australian Special Air Service|year=1989 |edition=1st |publisher=Allen & Unwin |location=St Leonards, New South Wales |isbn=978-1-86373-007-5}}
* {{cite journal|last=L |first=MAJ |title=301st Signal Squadron... |url=http://www.signaller.com.au/?12 |journal=Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals |date=July 2015 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160528102504/http://www.signaller.com.au/?12 |archivedate=28 May 2016|url-status=dead |ref=CITEREFSignaller:_The Magazine_of_the_Royal_Australian_Corps_of_Signals2015}}
* {{cite book|editor-last1=Larner |editor-first1=K.E. |editor-last2=Lorrain |editor-first2=L.P.|title=126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces) - An Anecdotal History 1960-1997|date=2000|publisher=Larner, Keith |isbn=978-0646404202|edition=[electronic resource]}}
* {{cite report |last1=Irvine |first1=David |author-link=David Irvine (diplomat) |title=Review of Special Operations Command - Australian Army |url=https://afghanistaninquiry.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-11/Irvine-Report-2020-Review-of-SOCOMD-Australian-Army.pdf |publisher=[[Australian Army]] |date=15 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220417013944/https://afghanistaninquiry.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-11/Irvine-Report-2020-Review-of-SOCOMD-Australian-Army.pdf |archive-date=17 April 2022 |url-status=dead}}
* {{cite magazine|last=Macrae |first=Sgt Ian |title=Special action team |url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/267398538 |magazine=Army magazine |date=1990 |issue=3 |issn=1034-3695 |publisher=Australian Army Newspaper Unit |access-date=6 March 2025 |via=[[Trove]]}}
* {{cite book|last1=Mullins|first1=Nathan|title=Keep Your Head Down|year=2011|publisher=Allen & Unwin|location=Crows Nest, New South Wales |isbn=9781742377940|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=orq2RcQraQQC}}
* {{cite book|last1=O'Connor |first1=John |title=Australian Airborne : The History and Insignia of Australian Military Parachuting |date=2005 |publisher= J. O'Connor |location=Kingsgrove |isbn=9780957942110}}
* {{cite book |last1=Rottman |first1=Gordon L |title=World special forces insignia |date=1989 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |location=London |series=Elite series 22 |isbn=085045865X}}
{{refend}}

==Further reading==
{{refbegin}}
*{{cite book|last=Higgins |first=Barry John |title=Strike Swiftly: 40 Years of 2 Commando Company, 1955 to 1995 |year=1995 |location=Traralgon, Victoria |publisher=Barry John Higgins |isbn=9780646222080}}
{{refend}}

==External links==
*[http://www.commandotrust.com Commando Welfare Trust]
*{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20120904000415/http://www.austcdoassocvic.com/ Australian Commando Association Victoria]}}
*[http://commandonews.com.au Commando News Magazine]
*[http://126SigSqn.net.au 126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces)]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20100325143014/http://www.defence.gov.au/op/afghanistan/gallery/2010/20100316/index.htm Defence Image Gallery - One Commando Regiment Army Reservists reach out to Oruzgan]

{{Aust SF}}
{{Australian Infantry}}

[[Category:Regiments of Australia]]
[[Category:Special forces of Australia]]
[[Category:Airborne units and formations of Australia]]
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1981]]