Balancing work duties with those of lifestyle and family is regarded as increasingly important.

THROUGH significant research over recent years into retention and recruitment issues, the ADF recognises that the priorities and composition of the current and future workforce is changing.

Increasingly, people are seeking an employer who will enable them to balance work commitments with those of lifestyle and family.

The Air Force acknowledges there is a need to adapt personnel practices to meet the needs of the current and future workforce.

The ADF has published policies on flexible work practices including Part Time Leave Without Pay, Leave Without Pay, variable working hours and Temporary Home Located Work.

Publication of these policies is a positive step towards recruitment and retention; however, most people are not being given the opportunity to use these provisions as a result of critical staffing levels, workloads and inflexible management practices.

The Directorate of Personnel Strategy - Air Force is tasked with developing options to create an Air Force Staffing Supplement. The aim is to enable more people to utilise extended leave provisions (Long Service Leave) and flexible work practices without remaining staff having to take on extra workload.

This will allow people to work productively while meeting their family or personal priorities, and in turn will increase employee satisfaction and retention.

A variety of staffing supplement options are being considered.

Further information can be obtained from Squadron Leader Nicole Sauer on (02) 6266 5021.

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