What Actually Happens on a DTS?
It's not a gap year holiday. It's not a Bible college lecture hall. It's something different.
Phase 1
Lecture Phase
(12 Weeks - Wollongong)
Live in community at the YWAM base in Port Kembla, just south of Wollongong. Each week focuses on a different aspect of knowing God and understanding your place in the world. You'll be taught by experienced speakers, process what you're learning in a small group, and actually have time to think.
This isn't sit-in-a-room-and-take-notes training. You'll be out in the local community, learning to hear God's voice, and figuring out what you're built for.
Phase 2
Outreach
(12 Weeks - Overseas)
Here's what makes YWAM Wollongong different: your team discerns the outreach location together through prayer. It's not a pre-packaged trip decided by someone in an office. You'll be part of the process - praying, listening, and seeking God together for where you're sent.
Previous teams have served across Southeast Asia and the 10/40 window - working with local communities, sharing the gospel in places where few have heard it.
Is DTS Right for You?
You don't need to have it all figured out. Most people who do a DTS are in the same spot - they love God, they want more, and they're not sure what's next.
You might be a good fit if:
You've finished school or you're taking a break from uni and you're wondering "what now?"
You grew up in church but want your faith to be yours, not just your parents'
You've felt a pull toward missions but don't know where to start
You want to travel with purpose, not just for photos
You're 18-24 and ready for something that actually matters
You don't need:
A theology degree
Missions experience
All the answers
Why Students Choose Wollongong
Family-Style community
With a maximum of 20 students per DTS, your leaders know your name, your story, and what you're working through. It's a tight community that actually does life together.
Be Involved In The Process
We don't have a preset outreach location. Be part of the process with your team as we pray together and discern the location as a group. That changes everything about how we approach outreach.
Peacemaking Focus
YWAM Wollongong has an active peacemaking ministry working in conflict zones - Indonesia, the Middle East, and beyond. You'll be exposed to a side of missions most people never see.
Beach Life
The base is a 20-minute walk from a patrolled swimming beach. Wollongong is 1.5 hours south of Sydney. You'll train in one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Australia.
Nationally Accredited
You'll finish with a Certificate III in Discipleship. Recognised training that counts for something beyond the experience itself.
Real Christ-Centred
Community
This isn't a program you attend. It's a community you become part of. Meals together, worship together, outreach together. The relationships you build here tend to last.
Hear from Students Who've Done It
How to Get Started
Enquire
Fill in the form on this page or give us a call. No commitment - just a conversation to see if June DTS is right for you.
Chat With Us
We'll set up a call to answer your questions, talk through what to expect, and help you figure out if this is your next step.
Apply
If it's a yes, we'll walk you through the simple application process. We'll sort out the details together.
Show Up in June
Pack your bags, get to Wollongong, and get ready for six months you won't forget.
Common Questions
Do I need any qualifications?
No. You need to be 18 or older and have a genuine desire to grow in your faith and serve others. That's it.
Where will the outreach be?
That's the unique part - your team decides together through prayer. Previous teams have gone to Southeast Asia and nations in the 10/40 window.
Can international students apply?
Yes. We regularly have students from all over the world. We'll help you with the visa process.
What's the accommodation like?
You'll live on the YWAM base in Port Kembla with your fellow students. It's simple, comfortable, and community-focused.
Is it accredited?
Yes. You'll receive a Certificate III in Discipleship upon completion.
I'm not sure if I'm ready. Can I just talk to someone?
Absolutely. Fill in the form or call us. No pressure, no obligation. We'd rather have an honest conversation than push you into something you're not ready for.
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