Come along to Cuisine on Bowen for the March edition of Coffee Connections where you can meet other ADF families and get to know your local Family Liaison Officers. New to Townsville or have been here a while, everyone’s welcome!

This is a self-funded activity. Attendees are responsible for the cost of purchasing their own food and drinks. Children welcome under direct parent/carer supervision.

Where: Cuisine on Bowen

When: Tuesday 7 March 9:30am-11:30am

Registration: Eventbrite - Coffee Connections

The COVID pandemic and the restrictions associated with this time presented unique challenges for our Defence families who were affected by these measures, particularly during extended periods of lockdown and separation from family. In acknowledging this experience and the lingering impacts of the early pandemic days still felt by many we would like to invite you to attend a special ‘COVID recovery’ edition of our Operation Connect and Reflect program.

This is a four-week program where we will explore various art modalities, meditation and mindfulness and reflect on how these strategies can be used as part of a self-care routine. There will be the opportunity to connect with fellow Defence partners in a relaxed and friendly environment. No artistic experience necessary!

All welcome regardless of your COVID experience.

Where: DMFS Townsville, Cnr Ross River Rd & Nathan St Cranbrook

When: 4 week program beginning Tuesday 8 March 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Registration: Eventbrite - Op Connect & Reflect - COVID Recovery

Education Assistance Scheme

There is a range of financial support available to help minimise the disruption to education caused by posting. Support may include:

• tutoring
• boarding school allowance
• tertiary accommodation
• scholarship loss
• reunion travel.

The ADF Pay and Conditions Manual provides further details on Education assistance.

If you require further information please contact the Education Support team at education.supportprograms@defence.gov.au

Partners can access funding for support that helps secure employment. Support initiatives customised to individual circumstances includes:

• professional employment services up to $1,500, and
• professional state based re-registration up to $1,500 when it is legally required in the industry.

Eligibility requirements include:

• that the partner is formally recognised by Defence
• that the partner has relocated to their current location due to an ADF posting
• that the member is serving in the permanent forces, is a Reserve member on continuous full-time service, or is transitioning for medical reasons.

Applications must be approved before engaging with a service provider.

Partners need to submit an application via the PEAP application form.

Remote Location Leave Travel (RLLT)

Defence has increased the Remote Location Leave Travel (RLLT) benefit.

RLLT has increased by one trip per year which will go a long way to reducing workplace and family stress.

Next time you and your family make a travel booking consider the new RLLT benefits.

For more information refer to the ADF Pay and Conditions website.

Defence Member and Family Helpline