February 2 - June 26, 2026

Backpackers Discipleship Training School

Seek Truth, Embrace It Deeply, Share It Boldly

Backpackers are unique travellers, craving adventure and purpose, leading to the discovery of truth.

This DTS is a journey to explore God’s truth, wrestle with big questions, and discover purpose in Tasmania’s wild beauty.

Truth transforms. Through teaching, worship, and community living, you’ll experience freedom in Christ, shaping your identity and faith.

Truth is meant to be shared. Whether through conversations, outreach, or simply how you live, you’ll invite others into God’s love and purpose.

Are you ready for the adventure? Seek, embrace, and share—your journey starts now!

“DTS changed everything. I met God for real, found my purpose, and made friends for life. Best decision ever.”

Why do a DTS?

A Discipleship Training School (DTS) is a powerful way to discover your next step with God through six months of intentional discipleship and missions. Just like Jesus’ disciples learned by living alongside Him—asking questions, watching His example, and stepping out in faith—you’ll grow through a live/learn environment that blends biblical teaching, authentic community, and hands-on outreach.

Each DTS provides the same foundational training, while offering unique focuses to match different passions and callings. Whether you're seeking clarity, direction, or deeper connection with God, a DTS equips you to know Him more fully and take His love to the nations.

Lecture Phase

The lecture phase of a DTS is where it all begins. You’ll hear from incredible teachers who are living what they teach, and you’ll be surrounded by a community that’s hungry to grow—just like you.

It’s not just head knowledge—it’s heart transformation. You’ll ask real questions, encounter God in new ways, and get equipped for a life of purpose. If you're ready for more, this is where it starts.

Missions

Live out the Great Commission daily

Nature and Character of God

Discover who God really is

Spiritual Authority

Walk confidently in God-given authority

Father Heart of God

Encounter God’s deep love as Father

Evangelism

Share Jesus boldly and compassionately

Relationships

Build healthy,
Christ-centered connections

Identity

Know who you are in Christ

Hearing God’s Voice

Learn to recognise and respond to Him

Fear of the Lord

Develop deep reverence and awe for God

Holy Spirit

Experience His power, presence, and guidance

“During outreach, I saw God move in ways I never imagined. Sharing Jesus in a remote village, I realised He could use me despite my fears. My faith became real, bold, and alive. I came home changed—confident in who God is and who He’s called me to be.”

Outreach Phase

During the outreach phase of a YWAM Discipleship Training School, you’ll put your faith into action by traveling to local or international locations to share the love of Jesus.

This phase is all about serving others, evangelising, and applying what you learned during the lecture phase.

Teams may partner with churches and other ministries, serve in practical ways, minister to the poor, or reach unreached people groups. Through real-world ministry, you will grow in confidence, deepen your relationship with God, and learn to depend on the Holy Spirit.

It’s a life-changing opportunity to make a tangible impact and experience global missions firsthand.

  • A DTS (Discipleship Training School) is a 24-week course designed to enable you to go deeper in your relationship with God and grow in your understanding of his purpose for your life. With the focus on knowing God more and making Him known, the course is split into two separate phases – lectures and outreach.

    The 3-month lecture phase is full of great teaching on topics like hearing God, identity, and missions. You will also experience community living, times of worship, practical training and one-on-one discipleship.

    Then comes 2 months of outreach, where the school breaks into smaller teams to travel and serve God in various locations. You will experience a variety of ministries and have the chance to discover your gifts and strengths as you care for people and share the good news of Jesus.

  • DTS is for anyone who wants to grow in their relationship with God and pursue His plans for the future.

    You don’t have to be perfect… People come to DTS for all kinds of reasons… Some have questions that they need to wrestle with in a safe place. For others God seems distant, and they have a suspicion that there is more to God than they are currently experiencing. Some come because they’re not sure what to do with their lives and need the opportunity to take stock and press into God for His plans. Still others come because they want to travel during a gap year and explore missions opportunities.

    Whatever the reason, we pray over every application we receive. We’re not looking for “perfect” people, but for those who are hungry for more of God.

  • Yes, but not a lot. The schools are full-time live-in courses. Every weekday will normally see a fully scheduled day from morning until evening with other activities on some nights. Weekends are often more free, however, there will be some outreaches and trips to explore the state that will fall on weekends.

  • If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you will need a visa to attend the DTS. We will guide you through this process once you are enrolled in the course or just email us for more details.

  • The DTS opens up a world of opportunities with YWAM, including internships, second-level training schools and staffing.

    You will find out more about these opportunities while you are here or you can check out our Further Training page!

  • Lecture Phase Tuition Fee: AUD $4500
    (Includes food, housing, tuition, administration and resources)

    Outreach Fee: AUD $4,500 - 6,000
    (depending on location)

    This course is Austudy-approved, and government financial aid may be available to eligible Australians.

    ACCREDITATION: 10802NAT Certificate III in Discipleship

  • The outreach location of your DTS will depend on the theme of the school. Recently, our outreach teams have been to Thailand, Cambodia, Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu. You will find out about the location and cost in the first few weeks of the lecture phase.

Is God calling you to an adventure with Him at a Discipleship Training School?

Embark on your journey today.

Register your Expression of Interest