Electronic forms are preferred

WITH the introduction of PMKeyS Self Service, Air Force members now have the ability to update their individual Employment Preferences and Restrictions (EPAR) forms instantaneously.

Submission of EPARs by disk generates unnecessary steps within the process and delays the presentation of information to relevant personnel managers. All Air Force personnel should now submit their EPARs using PMKeyS, except where they cannot access the DRN.

In this case, they should submit a hard copy of the EPAR form with accompanying data disks.

Since November 1, DP-AF is only processing hard copies of EPARs when the member has no access to PMKeyS. All other hard copies and accompanying disks are being returned to the unit.

All Air Force members should now have access to PMKeyS. If not, or you have forgotten your password, contact the Defence Service Centre on 1800 000 677 and request access.

Air Force People Central is also accessed through PMKeyS. It contains information that will assist members to complete the EPAR. For DP-AF queries phone SGT Suzette Bordiuk on (02) 6265 4933.

Succession moves

EACH year DP-AF requires input from all commanders to assist in preparing for the next posting cycle via Unit Succession Plans (USP).

The USP should denote all key positions and personnel within the unit that require a stagger in posting (for example CO/XO, ADMINO/O’ROOM SNCO and SENGO/WOE).

In identifying key personnel, commanders should be aware of an individual’s time in their current position and location.

Personnel managers will endeavour to retain airmen in a posting for three years (with minimum tenure of two years), subject to Service requirements.

Officers can expect to remain in a post for two years (with potential for a third year if requested by the unit), subject to Service requirements.

USPs are not a vehicle for dealing with personal issues affecting a member’s posting desires.

DP-AF is aware that promotion boards for 2005 will not be completed by the USP submission date and advises commanders not to adjust USPs to anticipate promotees.

DP-AF staff will review all USPs after promotions are known and, where any concerns exist, staff will contact commanders directly.

Completed USPs should be emailed to DPO.Applications@defence.gov.au by February 14. Units that do not submit a USP cannot be guaranteed minimal posting turbulence to key positions in the 2006 posting cycle.

USPs are available on People Central under hot topics, personnel policy, Unit Succession Plans. Queries can be directed to personnel managers or to Flying Officer Sonia King on (02) 6265 6397.

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