The Dependants with Special Needs Program
Australian Defence Force Dependants with Special Needs
Some Australian Defence Force families have a dependant with special needs. Special needs in this sense can mean someone who has, for example, a physical, intellectual, sensory, learning or behavioural disability, or a psychiatric illness/disorder. It can also include those assessed as being gifted or talented.
When families are posted they may have difficulties accessing the services they need, as waiting periods may apply. In order to address some of the difficulties which Defence families who have a recognised dependant with special needs may face, the Dependant with Special Needs Program provides a range of assistance measures. Eligibility criteria, conditions and provisions are outlined in the policy which can be found in the PACMAN Vol 1 Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2, and Vol 2 Chapter 8 Part 6.
Assistance Available
The provisions available through this program include:
- A procedure whereby ADF families with special needs can have their status as a special needs family formally recognised by Defence
- A special needs pre-posting visit
- Assistance to access specialised equipment in the new locality
- Assistance to access therapy services in the new locality
- Assistance to access respite services in the new locality
- Assistance in the provision of appropriate housing and transit accommodation
Application Forms can be obtained from WEBFORMS on the Defence Intranet, through your local Base shopfront or local DCO Office.
The Defence Community Organisation also works very closely with th Defence Special Needs Support Group (DSNSG) which provides a national network of peer support to Defence families who have a special needs dependant.
For more information about the group visit the DSNSG website or telephone 1800 037 674.
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