Connecting with your community
Relocation due to posting is an integral feature of Defence life, which means you may periodically be required to move away from your established support networks and familiar resources.
Getting out into your new community can help you to:
- access existing support mechanisms in place in the community,
- create new support networks for yourself,
- be informed about local resources, services and goingson,
- get orientated more quickly and smoothly,
- have a richer experience in your new home,
- build on your skills and develop strategies for managing challenges,
- find people with like interests or experiences,
- have fun,
- and make a difference.
Community groups
There are a wide variety of community groups and organisations which may benefit Defence families, including toy libraries, playgroups, Defence partner support groups, craft groups, sporting clubs and many more. Key national support organisations, such as the Defence Special Needs Support Group, also operate on a local level, holding meetings and activities for families.
Defence maintains community centres and neighbourhood houses around Australia, where community group meetings or familyorientated activities can be held.
Joining local community groups can help you to make friends and create new support networks, and provides a forum for Defence families to share their experiences, skills and strategies.
Find community groups and centres in your local area by clicking on your state or territory on the Community connection page.
Community events
Attending events run by these community organisations or by local authorities is a great way to expand your social network and get out into the community. DCO also holds a variety of local events, such as welcome events at the start of the new posting cycle, celebrations of National Families Week, workshops, information sessions and social and family activities.
Find out what events and activities are coming up in your local area by clicking on your state or territory on the Community connection page.
Various Defence publications, such as local DCO newsletters, defence family matters (a tri-annual lifestyle magazine for Defence families), and Service newspapers can also keep you in-the-know about what’s on offer locally, as well as any changes in the Defence environment that might affect families.
How to connect
We have information and resources available to guide you to what community access points—such as groups, organisations, events or opportunities—might suit you best.
Our specialised team members—Family Liaison Officers (FLOs) and Community Development Officers (CDOs)—have extensive knowledge of the local community and region and can provide you with advice and information, before or during your posting. FLOs and CDOs can also refer you to appropriate community agencies or resources you may need.
Call the all-hours Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 to get personalised advice from your local FLO or CDO.
Find out what’s on offer
We maintain a directory of Defence- and communityrun groups, organisations and events in each posting area, which you can readily access by clicking on your state or territory on the Community connection page, or by contacting the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608.
Regional Education Liaison Officers (REDLOs) are teachers available to provide you with information and advice about the local education system and schools. For more information, click on the REDLOs tab in our Support for children’s education section, or call the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 to connect with your local REDLO.
Contributing to your community
Communities are enriched by the skills, experiences and ideas Defence families bring to them. You might choose to contribute to the community by volunteering in a local organisation or school, participating in a community group or starting your own. Having an active presence in your community will also help to raise awareness of the Defence lifestyle and thus support in the wider community.
Thinking of starting your own support group or centre? Community group funding is available for organisations which run programs in support of Defence families.
Find opportunities to contribute to your community by calling the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 to connect with your local advisory staff. Or visit the Volunteering Australia website for Australia-wide information for volunteers.
'Like' the DCO Facebook page to receive updates and info
