Key Points
- The Commonwealth Naval Forces (CNF) and Commonwealth Military Forces (CMF) came into being on 1 March 1901
- The title ‘Royal Australian Navy’ was granted by King George V on 10 July 1911 and the first new Royal Australian Navy fleet unit sailed into Sydney Harbour on 4 October 1913
- The chaplains in the Royal Australian Navy wear a non-faith-specific rank insignia of a fouled anchor overlaying a compass rose, and a visible symbol reflecting their faith or spiritual tradition on collar mounted patches
Sharma-Wing has officially transitioned from her previous position as a Maritime Logistics Officer to her new role as the Hindu chaplain. Her appointment was endorsed by the Hindu member of the Religious Advisory Committee to the Services.
Kamala (Nayni) Sharma-Wing_Hindu Chaplain in the Royal Australian Navy Source: Supplied / Kamala Nayni Sharma-Wing
“This ensures a relevant and inclusive service, offering spiritual guidance and strength to all, regardless of their faith,” said Sharma-Wing.
Chaplains are professionally qualified and experienced wellness professionals.
In her discussion of the chaplaincy role, she emphasized the support provided to personnel in developing skills that enhance their professional and personal lives. “We address sensitive personal, personnel, and organizational issues while offering compassionate pastoral care and counseling services,” she noted.
To take on the role of the Australian Navy's full-time Hindu chaplain, Kamala (Nayni) Sharma-Wing completed five years of training.
Her training included Pandita education, 500 hours of yoga instruction, a Master’s degree in Counseling, studies in Hindu beliefs, Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), and Lifeline Crisis Support training.
Kamala (Nayni) Sharma-Wing (in middle) with her fellow officers Source: Supplied / Nayni Sharma_Wing
According to her, this holistic approach will guide her in serving others with dedication and compassion.
Why join the Australian Defence Force?
Reflecting on her journey in the Australian Navy—from joining and training to overcoming challenges—Sharma-Wing encourages everyone, especially young women, to consider joining the Australian Defence Force.
Sometimes in life, it’s best to jump in and give it a go. If I had kept digging deeper to understand what being in the Navy involves, fear might have held me back, and I would have missed out on incredible opportunities. Don’t overthink it—just take the first step. You never know what may come out of it.Kamala (Nayni) Sharma-Wing; Hindu Chaplain, The Royal Australian Navy
She further emphasised that if someone is seeking a sense of purpose, a challenge, job security, career growth, lifelong friendships, camaraderie, and the pride that comes with wearing the uniform, there are plenty of reasons to take that step forward.
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