The ADF Families Survey captures information directly from families of ADF members, so that Defence can identify areas for improvement.
The survey provides insight into the impact of ADF conditions of service on family members’ satisfaction with service life.
It also measures family members’ satisfaction with family support services.
2022 survey
The 2022 survey was run by the Australian Institute of Family Studies and was open from 30 May to 10 July.
This year there was a specific focus on measuring family member wellbeing to understand the impact of COVID-19 on families.
2,806 families participated in the survey and the results have been used to inform Defence actions, including the development of the Defence and Veteran Family and Wellbeing Strategy.
Summary report of the 2022 Australian Defence Force Families Survey (PDF, 966.73 KB)
2019 survey
The survey was a joint initiative of Defence and Defence Families of Australia.
In 2019, 3652 ADF family members completed the survey.
The finding show that the most important considerations for families were:
- housing quality and location
- the employment of the civilian partner
- financial stability
- dependent children education.
The 2019 survey showed that ADF families were less satisfied than the average Australian across multiple wellbeing domains.
2019 ADF Families Survey infographic (PDF, 416.71 KB)
2019 ADF Families Survey Report (PDF, 1.05 MB)
2017 survey
The 2017 survey focused on families and postings, partner employment and under employment, pride and belonging, and childcare access.
2017 ADF Families Survey infographic (PDF, 134.28 KB)
2017 ADF Families Survey Report (PDF, 539.54 KB)