War conditions of service for troops

Soldiers from 4RAR(Cdo) deployed on Op Falconer patrol the perimeter of their compound in the Gulf at sunset. Photos by 1JPAU(P)

ADF personnel joining the coalition to disarm Iraq will receive a comprehensive package of service conditions, including tax-free salary and allowances.

Australia’s contribution to the coalition, known as Op Falconer, will involve about 2000 ADF personnel. These personnel are already deployed in the Middle East.

The Government has decided the nature of service for Op Falconer is warlike for the purpose of conditions of service entitlements.

All salary and allowances will be tax-free for personnel deployed on the operation.

Those directly involved in combat operations inside Iraq, including Iraqi territorial waters and air space, will receive a tax-free international campaign allowance of $200 a day.

Those deployed elsewhere within the area of operations will receive a tax-free allowance of $125 a day.

Other conditions of service include:

This package of allowances and entitlements is designed to be as comprehensive as possible and to provide appropriate support to ADF personnel while they conduct a dangerous mission in Australia’s national interest. It is commensurate with the conditions of service for those personnel who have served in the war against terrorism under Op Slipper.

Similarly, in recognition of their service, ADF personnel deployed on Op Falconer will be awarded the Australian Active Service Medal.

The Government has also put in place support mechanisms to assist families, recognising that our deployed personnel cannot function without their support and understanding.

DCO, the Defence National Welfare Coordination Centre in Sydney and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs will continue to provide the highest level of support to the families of those personnel deployed.

As part of the package of service conditions for personnel deployed on Op Falconer, Defence may in some circumstances assist family members to relocate to be with extended family for support during the deployment.