Advocate to represent Reservists

The aim of the Armed Forces Federation is to foster, protect and promote the welfare and conditions of service of ADF members and to represent all ranks throughout the Defence Force.

The influence and success of the Federation relies on its membership base.

We have been quite successful on a range of issues in regard to members of the Regular Force that account for about 92 per cent of our membership and we will remain vigilant in doing so.

On the other hand, it has been brought to our attention that we might not be paying sufficient attention to the needs of Reservists.

While many of our efforts, particularly at the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal, flow on to Reservists, there remains a perception we are not doing enough in regard to the employment conditions for Reservists.

What would assist us in this regard would be a greater number of Reservists as members of the Federation, rather than the small percentage we have.

That said, a National Reserve Advocate position has been created on the Federal Executive Committee. Major Phillip Moses (Reservist) has volunteered his services to the position and is already in action.

He has undertaken to promote his position to all Reserve colleagues. He will correspond with as many as he can to encourage membership of the Federation and gain feedback on issues of concern so he can take action on their behalf.

Such action will include the provision of frank and fearless advocacy to the DFRT, the Minister, Secretary, Service Chiefs and other forums as appropriate to improve conditions of service for Reservists.

Having an executive member dedicated to this position will not only allow for more attention to Reserve issues, it will ensure the energies and attention we direct to conditions of service for ADF members in the Regular Force will not be depleted.

A win-win situation.

• Contact the Armed Forces Federation on (02) 260 5100, 1800 806 861 or Arffa@bigpond.com

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