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Study scheme
is a successs
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How
it works
DASS
is designed to support ADF members and reservists who are
rendering continuous full-time service of 12 months or more
who wish to further their professional education or development
through studies and courses.
Through DASS members may be eligible for financial sponsorship
and/or release from work for study purposes.
Courses may be undertaken at any level but must be in some
way related to work or resettlement.
CTAS consists of a series of benefits provided at three levels,
depending on length of service.
All levels provide for attendance at resettlement seminars,
approved leave for career transition activities and unrestricted
access to the information library on transition and separation.
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By
Maj Janelle Dunn and Cpl Alisha Carr
The Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS) and Career Transition Assistance
Scheme (CTAS) have proved a success.
Since replacing DFASS, SVETS and resettlement training, initial
evaluation has shown that the new schemes are much easier to access
and are meeting the needs of members.
Col Ross Boyd, Director Personnel Policy, said Defence recognised
the trend in all workplaces towards professional and personal development.
“This is the role of DASS,” he said. “Equally, ADF
members need to understand that CTAS is focussed on preparing members
for transition back to civilian life by funding specific courses
to acquire new skills and by helping members recognise and market
the skills gained through service life.
“Members should be less concerned about finding a new career
while still young enough to do so, given the increasing scale of
career transition entitlements that come with years of service.
“From this perspective, both DASS and CTAS are seen as very
valuable retention tools.”
Wg-Cmdr David Lindsay, who manages both schemes, said members were
either not aware of the benefits or were not sufficiently planning
ahead for transition.
“Through DASS and CTAS Defence is giving people the opportunity
to develop their skills and capabilities,” he said.
“Defence recognises the need to ensure that members’ skills
and capabilities continue to grow throughout their ADF career and
to ensure they have suitable and current skills for smooth transition
into civilian employment.
“It is often too late to commence planning at an exit-resettlement
seminar. All members should make themselves aware of the details
and entitlements available through the new schemes.”
LS Katherine Young, HMAS Cerberus, is currently studying for a Masters
Degree in Addiction Studies.
“DASS is extremely helpful because university is so expensive,”
she said.
“My masters costs $900 a subject and DASS refunds 75 per cent.
Doing this masters is great because it enhances my professionalism
within the ADF.
“In the future I am hoping to work within the alcohol and drug
field, in the Navy, as a counsellor. I’d really recommend others
to consider DASS.”
- Further
information on these programs can be obtained from local Resettlement/Education
Officers, DI(G)PERS 05-1, defweb.cbr.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpectap
or www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpectap
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