1. Who can participate? TAK-HACK is open to anyone with a passion for solving real tactical and operational challenges. This includes veterans, active ADF members, developers, engineers, first responders, creatives, students, and startups.**
   1. You MUST be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident to participate in this hackathon. If you are not, feel free to email the team at [email protected] to discuss on a case by case basis.

**A valid and current Australian Government issued ID is required to participate enter the event. (e.g. Drivers license, Passport, etc.)

1. Do I need to be technical or have coding experience? No! While technical skills are welcomed, teams benefit from a mix of thinkers, storytellers, operators, designers, and tech builders. Everyone brings value to a hackathon team.

2. What is ATAK and will I need to use it? ATAK (Android Team Awareness Kit) is a military-off-the-shelf (MOTS) mapping and situational awareness platform that enables real-time situational awareness and communication. CIVTAK is the commercially available version. You will have access to CIVTAK-compatible environments, and mentors will be on hand to help you explore it. Plugins and app-based solutions are encouraged!

3. How do the teams form? Team formation happens on Day 1 of the event. You can come with your own team, or meet others and join a group during our icebreaker and briefing session.

4. What are the judging criteria? Solutions will be evaluated on:

   • Relevance to real tactical/public safety problems
   • Innovation and creativity
   • Technical feasibility or prototype potential
   • Presentation and team collaboration

5. Are there prizes? Yes — recognition, prizes, and potential pathways for development or pilot testing will be available for top teams.

6. What do I need to bring? Bring your laptop, charger, and anything else you like to work with. We’ll provide Mobile Phones, Wi-Fi, power, tables, meals, and caffeine.

7. How do I register? Registrations will open shortly via Eventbrite. Spots are limited, so stay tuned for the release date.

8. Can I come just to watch the final pitches? Yes! Guests are welcome to attend the final day public showcase and awards — just register your interest in advance. Whilst anyone, can register to attend, Beaten Zone will be screening all registrations, and we reserve the right to cancel you order at our discretion. A valid and current Australian Government issued ID is required to participate enter the event. (e.g. Drivers license, Passport, etc.)

9. Can I bring my children as a participant?

   Persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a suitable adult parent or guardian throughout the duration of any visit to the hackathon venue. No Children are to be in the Hackathon ‘Mission Area’ with participating teams, however may be brought into the Venue in a set-aside suitable area, Children must remain supervised at all times a by a Parent or Guardian.