Get connected – locating and using available resources

ADF members know there’s a policy for everything. But did you know there’s also help and assistance for almost every situation Defence members and their families may find themselves in?

Relocating?

Border closures, travel restrictions and extended deployments are just some of the pandemic problems playing havoc with the usual posting cycles. However, some members and their families will still be relocating in the coming months. This means many additional tasks to fit into an already busy time of year. Here are some tips to make the move a bit smoother.

• Make a ‘To-do’ list to help you plan what needs to be done and keep track of your progress.
• Know what your entitlements are. The Toll Defence Relocation Guide and the DHA Tenant Handbook will help you navigate this process and link you to helpful services like fast disconnection and reconnection services for your utilities.
• Costs in your new location may differ from your current location so you may need to assess what impact that will have on your budget.
• Make sure you receive all of the allowances, such as a larder allowance, that you’re entitled to.

Defence Member and Family Support Branch

Defence Member and Family Support Branch (DMFS) provides ADF members and their families with a broad range of support services. Here are some examples:

• The Defence Family Helpline is staffed 24-7, by professionals including social workers and psychologists, and can connect you with other services within the Defence community. They can be contacted on 1800 624 608.
• Emergency and crisis support for families facing an emergency or a crisis, including illness, injury, domestic violence and bereavement.
• Support for families during deployments.
• SMART programs for families, teens and kids to help build psychological resilience.
• Local community groups and events to connect you to other Defence families in your posting location and the broader community.
• Support and financial assistance for kids’ education following a new posting.
• The Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP) recognises the challenges that military life has on partner employment. The eligibility criteria for PEAP has been changed to support families during COVID-19. Partners can now apply for up to $1500 for employment services anytime during the posting cycle.
• ADF Transition Centres support ADF members and their families who are transitioning from permanent service. An ADF Transition Coach will develop your transition plan. You can access additional support services through the Defence Force Transition Program.

Seek like minds

Defence Families Australia is a community of people who understand, and have experience of, what Defence families go through. Connect with other families in your posting location to share your experiences and get tips from others to make Defence life a little easier on you and your family.

Discounts and concessions

If you have any service related injuries or conditions you may be eligible for a Veteran White Card. You may also be eligible for a White Card while serving if you want to be able to seek any form of mental health treatment. It’s important to note that DVA does not report back to the chain of command if you register for mental health services.

Members with a Veteran Card can sign up to Australian Partners of Defence (APOD) for free. APOD membership entitles you exclusive discounts and thousands of offers from well-known brands and companies, including supermarkets and other retailers, petrol, entertainment, travel and a wide range of other products and services.

Managing finances

For help managing your finances, the ADF Consumer website has information and tools to help you make better decisions with your money. If you need information or assistance, we can help guide you or put you in touch with an appropriately qualified professional. Just use the contact us function on the website.

Whatever you need, there’s probably a service that can help you, so start getting connected.