Freedom of Entry is one of the highest honours a city can bestow upon a military unit. The tradition dates back centuries, with origins linked to ancient Rome where military forces were required to seek permission before entering fortified cities.

Today, Freedom of Entry remains a powerful demonstration of mutual respect, recognition and connection between a community and the military units that serve it.

From 9am, around 1,000 cadets, instructors and officers will parade down Barrack Street and along the Swan River with swords drawn, banners flying and drums beating in a proud display of the long-standing relationship between the City and the AAFC.

The parade will end at Langley Park, with a community expo featuring aviation displays, military equipment, vehicles and community activities from 10am to 2pm.

Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said it is an honour to mark a decade since the City last granted No. 7 Wing AAFC the Freedom of Entry honour as well as the 85th anniversary of the AAFC.

“Freedom of Entry represents the trust, respect and partnership between the City of Perth and the Australian Air Force Cadets,” Mr Reynolds said.

“While the ceremony reflects centuries of military heritage, it is also about celebrating the future and recognising the important role the No. 7 Wing plays in inspiring and developing the next generation of Western Australian leaders.

“It is a privilege for the City to host the parade to recognise the group’s longstanding contributions to WA’s young people and the broader community.

“Seeing our cadets march through Perth will be a remarkable sight. I encourage residents, businesses and families to come into the city, line the streets and be part of this unique celebration of history, community and the future of the Australian Air Force Cadets.”

No. 7 Wing AAFC Wing Commander Damian Lambert said the organisation was honoured to receive the Freedom of Entry from the City and recognised the significance of the occasion.

“For today’s cadets, exercising the Freedom of Entry is far more than a ceremonial tradition, it is a powerful expression of positive youth engagement in the City of Perth,” Mr Lambert said.

“By stepping forward in uniform, our young people demonstrate discipline, service and pride in their community, strengthening the bond between the AAFC and the citizens we serve.

“At a deeper level, their participation carries a solemn weight. The cadets are not only marching for themselves, but also to honour the members from our inception during World War II, 1941 and onwards.

“They represent the young men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and will never walk their home streets.

“Each step taken is a tribute to those who served before us, ensuring their legacy endures and reminding the community that today’s youth remain committed to upholding the values, courage and spirit of those who gave everything.”

Event details

Date: Sunday 13 September
Time: 9am
Location: Parade route through Perth CBD, concluding at Langley Park

Participants:

  • City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds, as Reviewing Officer, will inspect the parade and receive the salute.
  • No. 7 Wing AAFC Wing Commander Damian Lambert will lead the parade.
  • WA Police Force Superintendent Amber Harvey will act as City Marshall and conduct the ceremonial Challenge.

Fast facts

  • No. 7 Wing AAFC is the Western Australian arm of the national Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) program.
  • The AAFC provides young Australians with opportunities to develop aviation knowledge, leadership skills, teamwork and a commitment to community service.
  • The AAFC has a proud history spanning more than 85 years. It was established in 1941 as the Air Training Corps to prepare teenagers to enter the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II.
  • The City last granted Freedom of Entry to the AAFC in 2016.