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1. |
Many conditions of service differ depending on whether a member has any recognised dependants. This Part summarises: |
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a. |
the dependant categories a member is assigned, and |
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b. |
who dependants are. |
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This Part is a guide only. Dependants and dependant categories are recognised against specific criteria. These are listed in Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2. All decisions about a member’s dependants will be made against the rules in Chapter 1, not the descriptions in this Part. See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2, Definitions – dependants |
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1. |
Members will be placed in one of three categories. |
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Members with dependants (MWD). |
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b. |
Members with dependants (unaccompanied) (MWD(U)). |
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c. |
Members without dependants (MWOD). |
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These categories are used only to decide what conditions of service the member is entitled to. Each of the terms have special meanings which might be different from how the terms are commonly understood. |
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Item |
The category... |
means that the member... |
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1. |
member with dependants |
has in their household people who meet the definition of dependant. They need to be providing a home for them at the posting location, and live in it with at least one dependant. |
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2. |
member with dependants (unaccompanied) |
provides a home for dependants, but is unable to live with the dependants for Service-related reasons. Example: The member is required to serve at another location and the dependants are unable to move for recognised reasons such as health, or employment or educational commitments. |
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member without dependants |
does not qualify under one of the other two categories above. |
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Example 1: A married couple are both members. One member is at sea, and the other lives in. Neither member is providing a home for the other. They both must be classified as members without dependants. This is despite them both having a spouse. Example 2: A member is divorced, and has a child who lives with their other parent. The member makes regular child support payments and is in regular telephone and email contact with the child, but visits are only occasional. The member does not maintain a home for the child for 90 or more nights a year. The child does not meet the definition of a dependant. The member is classified as a member without dependants. |
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For the full definition of dependant categories. See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2, Definitions – dependants |
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A member's dependants are any of the following: |
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Their spouse or interdependent partner, even if he or she is not financially dependent. There is more information about interdependent partners in the next Part. |
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b. |
Their dependent children who are under 21 years. There is no means test on child income. Their spouse’s or interdependent partner's children are also covered. Older children may be dependants if they have a disability. |
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c. |
In some circumstances, a person acting as a guardian or housekeeper, if the member has a dependent child and no spouse or interdependent partner (or their spouse or interdependent partner is an invalid, or absent on ADF duty). |
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d. |
Other persons recognised as dependants by the CDF under Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2. Members need to apply and request special consideration of their particular circumstances. |
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2. |
A dependant must normally live with the member. |
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3. |
For the full definition of dependants. See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2, Definitions – dependants |
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If a member seeks recognition of persons other than a spouse, interdependent partner, children or guardian/housekeeper as dependants, they must do the following. |
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Apply to the Director Entitlements through their unit or administration centre. |
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b. |
Include a supporting statement addressing why they should be considered a dependant. |
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c. |
Provide any documentation or evidence which supports the application. Example: Proof of guardianship, medical reports on the health of an elderly parent. |
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A member’s family circumstances may change over time. The member may need to change their category. |
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Members must ensure that an accurate record is kept of their marital status and number of children. They must seek special approval for de facto marriage and approval of other persons as dependants in special circumstances. |
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Members must inform their unit or administration centre if family circumstances change. This may require a change in their category. |
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Because many conditions of service depend on their category, a member who fails to do this might be wrongly paid. This may be an offence. |
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Members are not entitled to any assistance under this manual with having a dependant take up residence with them. Exception: Unless dependant travel arrangements are specified in this manual. |
See: Forms
and Processes at:
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DEFWEB at http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac/ |
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Internet at www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac |
AD150
– ADF Personal Data – PM Keys
AA157 –
Application to Live In, Live Out and Categorisation
AD160 – ADF
Dependant Details
AD291 –
Application for Categorisation as a Member with Dependants (Unaccompanied)
PE057 – Standard
Application
PE357 –
Application for Recognition of Interdependent Partnership