Keep it in the family

WE ARE FAMILY: The ADF is committed to offering choices for members and their families. Photo: ABPH Andrew Black

By CMDR Anthony Haigh

Significant new choices have been created for families of Defence members with dependants who are posting.

There is now a choice of either taking your family with you to the new post or providing the family with ongoing geographic stability by proceeding unaccompanied.
Over the past two years, the policy governing Members With Dependent (Separated) (MWD(S)) has been reviewed.

The outcome is the Family Stability Initiative (FSI), which broadens the eligibility for members to proceed on posting unaccompanied.
Included in this policy update is a change of title from MWD(S) to Members With Dependants (Unaccompanied) (MWD(U)).

The initiative removes all the previous eligibility tests that applied to MWD(S) and opens up the MWD(U) to all members who are classified Members With Dependants.

A highly mobile work force is a military capability requirement for the ADF. However, Defence acknowledges this can, at times, add to family pressures associated with constantly moving. The intent of the FSI is to reduce, as far as possible, the pressure associated with frequent postings on ADF personnel and their families.

This will allow educational constancy for children and employment continuity for spouses and partners. Allowing members to choose what is best for them and their families is intended to encourage members to continue with their military service.

Families who choose geographic stability will continue to access the range of Defence entitlements such as housing or rent assistance, and family support provisions.
ADF members who proceed to their new postings unaccompanied will also receive a conditions of service package that includes accommodation or rent and meals assistance, up to six family reunion visits each year and assistance with additional costs associated with living away from their families.

Should the unaccompanied posting for the member prove not to have been the best option, families will retain an entitlement to be relocated to the new posting locality –provided there is at least six months to serve there. Housing assistance and other support provisions will then be made available in the new locality.
The ADF remains committed to keeping families together where possible and members who choose to have their families accompany them on taking up their new postings will continue to be supported by the full range of existing relocation and housing entitlements.

The FSI is now in place for the 2006 end-of-year posting cycle. The Defence Community Organisation will provide support and advice to members considering the MWD(U) option.
■ For more information visit http://intranet.defence.gov.au/pac/ or consult your divisional officer.

.