1 May 2025
A new program piloted in Townsville has given Army families the opportunity to connect socially and access important information about the support and benefits available to them.
Up to 21 Army partners joined in the Army Partner Support Pilot Program at Gecko's Family Centre at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville.
Personnel and their families heard from presenters including Defence Member and Family Services (DMFS), The Oasis Townsville, Kookaburra Kids, Open Arms, RSL Queensland and ADF Financial Consumer Centre, and had the chance to exchange information in a friendly environment.
Participant Jade Wallace said the main reason she attended the program was to meet other partners and find out what services are available to her family.
“I found the program so valuable as a recently posted family to Townsville. The information provided was useful and I made key connections with the other attendees,” she said.
The pilot was designed to gauge whether this type of program, around supporting social connection and information sharing, meets the needs of Army partners.
For many Army families, including participant Amber Pinter, Townsville is their first posting.
“This is the start of our new Defence life. I am so thankful for this program. I feel so much important information was provided, it has put my mind at ease,” Ms Pinter said.
'This is the start of our new Defence life. I am so thankful for this program.'
The initiative was created as part of Army’s retention actions and enhancing Army’s engagement and support to families.
Director G1 Colonel Adam Kavanagh said Army asked a great deal of its people and their families.
“Service requires that we put the mission and our teammates before ourselves. Therefore, it is important that our people and our families feel valued and recognised for their ongoing contribution to our community and our nation,” Colonel Kavanagh said.
In addition to the partner support pilot program, Army has also developed the Army Families Handbook to help families navigate the benefits, resources and support services available to them. The handbook includes contact details, links and directions to resources so families can find what they need quickly.
“We know the unique nature and the impact that service life has on our people and our families,” Colonel Kavanagh said.
“There are a variety of programs and services available to help them understand how Defence works and what support may be available, and the handbook and programs like the Army Partner Support Programs are great tools to help navigate service life.”
The Army Families Handbook is available at army.gov.au/community/members-and-veterans/family-support. Hardcopies are also being distributed through units. Families can also email army.families@defence.gov.au to access information, provide feedback on the handbook or request a hard copy.
