In what's believed to be the first move of its kind, Lieutenant Nabaraj Thapa laterally transferred from the Nepali Army to the Australian Army in 2023.
This followed 11 years' service as a Nepali Army officer in artillery and logistics. He also deployed as a military police officer during a UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, before serving as a staff officer for the Chief of General Staff.
The seed for the transfer was planted in 2018 while Lieutenant Thapa was visiting his sister in Brisbane.
Struck by the beauty of the local parks and the friendliness of the people, he noticed ADF recruiting ads and felt inspired to apply.
Once inducted, Lieutenant Thapa had to adapt to a new military culture, learning different training patterns, rank interactions and even a new way of saluting.
"I've had to learn a lot by observing others," Lieutenant Thapa said.
'I like how Army takes care of its people.'
This included relearning infantry tactics in the Australian style, which, while based on familiar principles, are different.
Beyond tactics, Lieutenant Thapa was struck by the sheer scale of gear at Australia's disposal.
"I was so overwhelmed by seeing all the equipment and resources in the Australian Army," he said.
Originally brought into the Australian Army as an artillery officer, Lieutenant Thapa is currently working as an ammunition platoon commander and is impressed with Army's culture.
"I like how Army takes care of its people. Lots of welfare support, constantly getting checked in on by the seniors asking 'how are you doing?'," Lieutenant Thapa said.
"The people are very friendly. Everyone's smiling. They've welcomed me very well. Within one or two months, it felt like home here."
