Federation
officials first met with CDF General Peter Cosgrove on October
17 to discuss a broad range of personnel issues and establish
the ground rules for a cooperative working relationship between
our respective organisations.
GEN Cosgrove was quite complimentary in regard to the role the
Federation had played in recent years, making particular reference
to our involvement in Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal (DFRT)
activities.
He welcomed the Federation as an organisation that can “ginger
us up” when the need arises.
In response to our request for a CDF statement on the Federation,
GEN Cosgrove has provided the following:
“As Chief of the Defence Force, I acknowledge that the Armed
Forces Federation of Australia shares my strong interest in the
welfare and conditions of service of people serving in the Australian
Defence Force.
“The Federation functions as an independent representative
body for military personnel. I welcome the Federation’s continued
contribution to the development of personnel policies for ADF
people and acknowledge its ongoing commitment and contributions
to all remuneration matters considered by the Defence Force Remuneration
Tribunal.
“The Federation helps educate ADF members in regard to their
employment conditions and the ADF remuneration process.
“ADF people are free to become involved with the Federation.
The Federation and its continued effectiveness is dependent on
a strong membership base.
“Representatives of the Federation may visit military bases
throughout Australia to conduct information and awareness sessions
during normal working hours, subject to prior endorsement of the
visits at unit and command level. These visits are not to interfere
with ADF operational activities.
“I would encourage unit commanders to give their personnel
the opportunity to attend programmed Federation presentations.
“I am happy to meet with Federation officials in order to
enhance the consultation process between the ADF and the Federation.”
The Federation greatly appreciates the statement provided by the
CDF. It recognises the common interests we share, welcomes independent
and alternative views being presented to decision makers and removes
any fears ADF members might have in regard to Federation membership.
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To contact the Armed Forces Federation phone (02) 6260 5100
or 1800 806 681.
