Publication:Sea Talk Autumn 2006/Defence Families of Australia
Contents |
The 2006 agenda for Defence Families
By National Convenor Maureen Greet
It's an exciting year ahead for Defence Families of Australia, and not just because we are celebrating our twentieth anniversary of dedication to improving the quality of service life for our ADF families. When we look back at the great efforts made by this dedicated and dynamic organisation of volunteers, we should be proud of our achievements in positively affecting change.
DFA provides a recognised forum for your views and by reporting, making recommendations and influencing policy that directly affects families.
Our aim is to improve your conditions of service. ADF families can contact DFA to represent them regarding an individual problem or for advocacy on an issue concerning many families. We will always work hard to provide you with a solution.
DFA has had numerous successes at national, local and regional levels. Many issues have been resolved by passing recommendations directly to the CDF and the Minister for action. We consider ourselves to be an extremely proactive and empowered voluntary group and are very proud of our efforts to help make your unique ADF family life happier.
Our Agenda for 2006 is constantly evolving, but the big ticket items for us this year will be:
- Potential changes to the new housing classification policy and how this will impact on families;
- Community groups and community houses - ensuring volunteer committees are supported and trained;
- Education, including the introduction of the national transfer note;
[The interstate student data transfer note (ISDTN) and protocol is a joint initiative between the Australian Government, state and territory education departments, and the independent and Catholic education sectors.
All education authorities (including the non-government sector) have agreed to implement, from last January 1, a national system for the transfer of student information between schools when children move from one state to another.
This national system will enhance the ability of the student's new school to place and support that student in a timely manner and with the assistance of accurate information from the student's previous school.]
- Ensuring ADF families are utilising the new digital student portfolio, to capture valuable information on their children's education. Contact your REDLO if you would like more information on this fabulous new resource;
- Changes to the DHA Act and the potential impact on ADF families; and
- Childcare access for ADF families, particularly upon relocation.
We are keen to continue building on already excellent relationships with Defence, command and key stakeholders groups, and most importantly, with ADF families. By getting involved, and representing your local area for DFA, you can help improve the quality of life for our entire ADF family community.
Positions vacant - national delegates
We currently have two vacancies for volunteers for the positions of national delegates in South Australia and North Queensland.
These are Ministerially appointed role and those who accept will represent ADF families in those areas. For more information please email: volunteers@dfa.org.au.
We are really keen to get a Navy spouse for either or both of these regions, to ensure we have balance in our representation.
DFA Communications
Please continue to visit our web site for up to date information on news, issues and events - www.dfa.org.au
Or would you like a change from 'ground hog day'? Why not volunteer: offer some time to become part of your ADF community, and help improve your region.
DFA will support and train you - provide you with new skills, networks and friendships whilst encouraging your positive efforts. See communications@dfa.org.au
Do you or a friend need help with an ADF family matter? Free call us on: 1800 100 509
Welcome new national delegates: DFA are proud to introduce the newest members of our team
Northern Territory national delegate - Joanne Aboud
Joanne is living in tropical Darwin, and is an active community volunteer with over 16 years of Army life experience to bring wisdom to her role. It's really great to have this tireless mother of four representing DFA who still makes the time to volunteer to improve our community.
South Queensland national delegate - Elizabeth Sayers
Elizabeth has a lifetime of voluntary and community-based roles enhancing her appointment to this large and active region of the ADF community. Elizabeth and her RAAF husband are situated locally in Ipswich, providing her with a grass roots contact to ADF families of the region. Her unconditional commitment to improving our community is an admirable example for others.
