Defence Community Organisation

Financial support for you and your family

Whatever your financial circumstances, the ADF Financial Service and Consumer Center (ADFFSCC) has a range of resources to help you and your family. This includes if you are navigating the financial aspects of transition.

The ADFFSCC has information from experts on saving, budgeting, investing, and insurance.

Through the ADFFSCC website all ADF members and their families have access to a range of services, such as:

• guidance on what to consider when selecting a financial advisor
• a referral program to a list of qualified financial advisors who will give ADF members personal financial advice that is free from remuneration-based conflicts
• the Compare Your Package (CYP) tool which allows full time ADF members the ability to estimate the value of their financial and non-financial benefits.

For those who are transitioning or thinking about stepping out into civilian life, the ADFFSCC Transition checklist is a great starting point and has suggested actions to make sure you and your family are financially ready for your transition.

Defence Family Matters is out now!

The latest issue of Defence Family Matters is out and on its way to mailboxes and offices around the country!

It’s been a busy start to 2020 and ADF members and their families share stories managing the unprecedented challenges of bushfires and then the coronavirus outbreak that has such an impact on our lives.

In our cover story, we talk to Lynn about her incredible escape from her burning home and the trials she’s confronted since. We also catch up with our Defence families around the country at this years’ Welcome events, and more!

View the online version

ADF personnel and their families involved in, or affected by, the Afghanistan Inquiry are supported by their chain-of-command and also have access to a range of other assistance including mental health, medical, legal, pastoral and social work services.

Former serving ADF personnel and their families involved in, or affected by, the Afghanistan Inquiry have access to support from DVA and Defence, who provide medical and mental health services, and in some cases, legal support.

For more information visit https://afghanistaninquiry.defence.gov.au/

ADF partner deploying and not sure what to expect?

Join experienced DCO experts for our new webinar series “Deployment: embracing the challenge’. The webinars feature a range of tips, strategies and resources to help partners, parents and kids with a member absent from home, who has recently returned from deployment or are going to deploy soon. It’s also a chance to ask questions.

Follow us on social media, or visit our event calendar below for information about session times, dates and how to get tickets. To see the range of deployment support and resources available, see Deployment and time apart.

Our COVID-19 webinar series

The DCO webinar series covers a range of topics like healthy relationships, kid’s education during and after COVID-19, communication and healthy connections and how to stay physically, mentally and emotionally strong, plus the support available.

If you missed one of our recent webinars and want to find out about the questions asked, visit the Q&A section on our Webinars page.

You can also contact the Defence Family Helpline 24/7 on 1800 624 608 or email defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au.

Support for families affected by travel restrictions

While federal, state and territory governments have begun to ease travel restrictions, we know that some reunion and other travel by Defence personnel and their families may still be affected.

In exceptional circumstances, Commanders may be able to approve essential travel. However, all Defence personnel must comply with relevant state and territory travel restrictions unless an exemption has been granted.

If you or your family need help or information, reach out through the member’s chain of command or call the 24/7 Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608. For current information on state and territory guidelines on travel, refer to https://www.australia.gov.au

Support for our Reservists

Reserve members supporting Operation COVID-19 Assist under SERVOP C arrangements can access our full range of support services, including absence from home and crisis support.

During the COVID-19 pandemic these services will be delivered online and through the 24/7 Defence Family Helpline. Reservists ceasing SERVOP C contracts can also get assistance with their transition back to civilian life.

For details, see the factsheet: Supporting Reservists—OP COVID-19

Good news for ADF partners looking for employment!

With a difficult employment market and increased numbers of people competing for the available jobs, the eligibility criteria for the Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP) has been changed to support families during COVID-19. Where previously partners who’ve relocated had to apply within two years of moving to a new posting location, you can now apply for up to $1500 for employment services anytime during the posting cycle!

Get all the details and the application form on the Partner employment page. Advice and assistance is always available from the 24/7 Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 or email defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au.

COVID-19 support and information

With the global outbreak of COVID-19, many members of the Defence community are dealing with anxiety and uncertainty as well as significant changes in their day-to-day lives.

Defence is working to ensure personnel are well supported and is taking preventative measures, including training and access to medical support and leave. Information on the Defence response to COVID-19 is available on a dedicated webpage, which is updated daily.

If you or someone in your family are unwell, talk to your doctor and follow their advice. Defence families affected by COVID-19 or struggling to cope can contact our all-hours Defence Family Helpline or see Coronavirus advice.