Relocation

A place to call home right near RAAF Amberley

Leafy parks, fantastic education facilities and a connected community. Welcome to Providence, the perfect place for your family to call home. Located in the heart of Ripley Valley, Providence has been designed for families with effortless living in mind. From a fantastic selection of new local schools, to the treasured Splash ‘n’ Play Adventure Park; Providence is a location with it all.

PARKS TO PLAY

Set in the green Ripley Valley with a Flinders Peak backdrop, Providence offers a wonderful range of parks and playgrounds for children of all ages. Providence’s very own Splash ‘n’ Play Adventure Park is an award-winning playground guaranteed to entertain children of all ages. With an elevated rope ‘skywalk’ suspended above the ground, as well as a mega climbing spider net and flying fox, this park is equipped with picnic pavilions and electric BBQs. The park also features a cutting edge water park which offers interactive, splashtastic fun for children of all ages. There are also a number of other neighbourhood parks in Providence already built with many more to come, including the fur-friendly South Ripley dog park and Ironbark Park.

EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION

Located in the heart of a thriving community, Providence is surrounded by a range of quality education options for your family. For your littlest family members, the Elephas Education Ripley Valley childcare centre has commenced construction and will be expected to open in early, 2023. Each morning and afternoon you’ll be able to take a neighbourly stroll and soak in your natural surroundings (maybe enjoy a play in the park on the way!) to Providence’s brand new Ripley Valley State School and Secondary College. This secondary college and its primary school counterpart form a $120 million purpose-built education facility designed to meet the growing residential needs of Providence and the local community.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

The saying, it takes a village, rings true at Providence. This vibrant neighbourhood is a supportive, welcoming community which is focused on a great pace of life for families. Feel connected amongst like-minded locals through organised family fun community events such as the Ripley Valley Markets, school holiday movie nights under the stars, and Providence Playgroup catch-ups. If your family has been searching for the great Australian dream; somewhere with open spaces surrounded by nature, full of wonderful education opportunities and a connected, welcoming neighbourhood… there’s no place like Providence. Visit stockland.com.au/providence to view the virtual tour of the community or call Sam Xinis on 0400 071 576 to find out more about making Providence your home.

There’s never been a better time to follow the sun to Queensland

Bask in the backdrop of clear blue skies set behind an iconic mountain peak, green spaces and nearby nature reserves at Stockland’s Providence community in South Ripley.

Located in the Ripley Valley in South-East Queensland, this is your chance to spread out with a house and land package while still being close to work hubs, including Ipswich City, Springfield Central and Brisbane, which is just a 43km^ drive away. Providence is also close to the excitement and employment opportunities at Australia’s largest airbase at RAAF Amberley. With a range of amenities already accessible, including two brand new schools and several parks, you’ll discover that Providence is a fast-growing, welcoming place with a strong sense of community. S Set to become the Ripley Valley ’ s largest master-planned community, Providence will be home to 20,000 residents over the next 20 years. Could you be joining them? Make Providence your home, call our sales team today!

House & Land Package House & Land Package

Lot 3833 | Monash 25 Hamptons By Coral Homes

$580,660*

• Family-sized home with 4 bedrooms • Caesarstone benchtops to kitchen, bathroom and ensuite • Two living areas plus alfresco area • Colorbond Roof

4

2.5 2

Lot 3928 | Mapleton Bowen By Simonds Homes QLD

$419,040*

S Stockland Providence 6 Amity Way, South Ripley, QLD

Call: 1800 604 246 Email: providence@stockland.com.au

• Single storey 3 bedroom home • Integrated family room, dining space and open kitchen • Master bedroom with walk-in robe and ensuite

3

2 1

*Price is correct as at date of publication and is subject to change without notice or obligation. Applies to selected House & Land Package only. Subject to availability. Stockland is only responsible for the sale of the land. Price is based on the Builder’s standard plans and specifications, standard inclusions and preferred building surveyor. Price does not include stamp duty, registration fees, additional costs that may be incurred under the Building Contract (eg due to delays in titling the lot) or any other incidental fees associated with the acquisition of land or a home or the construction of a home. Images are artists impressions only and subject to change. Price correct as at 01/08/2021. Visit stockland.com.au for full Terms & Conditions. All images and statements are based on information available to Stockland at the time of publication and may be subject to change without notice or obligation.

Map supplied for the purpose of providing an impression of Stockland Providence and the approximate location of existing and proposed third party infrastructure, facilities, amenities, services and destinations, and is not intended to be used for any other purpose. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change. Not to scale. Any future infrastructure referenced in this brochure is proposed for Stockland Providence as at August 2021. The delivery and location of proposed infrastructure, facilities, amenities, services and destinations is indicative only and may change due to future circumstances. ^All distance and travel timeframe references are estimates only, refer to distance by car or driving time (unless specified otherwise), and are based on information obtained from Google Maps at the time of publication.

Defence Member and Family Support

In 2020, we took the time to reflect on our purpose and vision for the future and we’re excited to announce that we will officially change our name from Defence Community Organisation (DCO) to Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) from 1 July 2021.

DCO was formed in 1996 when the family support organisations from the three Services were brought together. Since then, DCO has grown to have a nation-wide presence with on-the-ground services delivered from local area offices and ADF Transition centres.

It’s important that Defence members and their families see DCO’s services as something accessible to them as part of their community. Recently we’ve received some feedback that families may think DCO is not part of Defence and that our programs and services are not available to them.

To overcome that misconception, last year we undertook staff and stakeholder consultation within Defence and also with Defence Families of Australia, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and a number of ex-service organisations. This consultation helped us develop a new name that people could look at or hear and immediately know what we do and who we do it for.

There will be no changes to the services we currently provide to Defence members and their families. The local area offices around Australia will remain and there will be no changes to the Defence Family Helpline number 1800 624 608.

Leading up to the change, you’ll start to see DMFS increasingly used so by the time 1 July rolls around there won’t be any surprises. Families can expect to see a couple of changes online as we change our factsheets, guides, forms and office email addresses to the new name. You’ll also see name changes to our social media channels, google business listings and on ForceNet.

The date of 1 July 2021 has been chosen to officially change our name

Defence Community Organisation hosts events around the country to help connect families to their new community. Kingsley Klau image.

because it coincides with DCO’s 25th anniversary. This is a chance to look back on where we’ve come from, where we are and where we are going in the future.

Stay tuned for updates on our social media channels.

Meet your local DCO team

DCO’s Amberley team is made up of military personnel and civilian staff who provide a range of assistance and information, including support for children to settle into new schools, partner employment and help for families experiencing unforeseen crisis or emergency.

Military support officers are uniformed officers who help with advice and assistance with military matters and support local ADF commanders with member welfare support.

Defence social workers are qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about the ADF and the lifestyle of its members. Defence social workers are able to help members and their families address personal, relationship or Service-related issues. They can provide assessment, shortterm counselling services or referral to support and resources in the local area.

Family liaison officers have extensive knowledge of the local area and help members and their families connect with the services and support they need. They are also proactive regarding welcome activities and assisting families settling into a new location.

Find out more about your local area

Your local DCO office host a range of social activities and information sessions for ADF families—like monthly coffee catch-ups, dinners out and family fun days; or partner employment, relocation or absence from home advice, and the KidSMART and FamilySMART program. All families are most welcome to attend these events and the local DCO Amberley team looks forward to meeting you all.

To find out more about the Amberley office’s social events and information sessions, follow DCO on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) or ForceNet and keep up-to-date with the latest events on the DCO Amberley page on Eventbrite at DCOAmberleyIpswich.eventbrite.com.au.

Families can also access a wide range of information about support and DCO programs from the DCO website. The website also features a calendar of events hosted by the local DCO office and local community groups, from coffee mornings and partner employment information sessions, to ADF Transition seminars for families thinking about their future beyond the ADF.

Childcare

DCO provides an individual case management (ICM) service for childcare placement to support ADF families when they move to a new area or change their work or care arrangements, such as when a serving member returns from maternity leave. Specialist early learning staff from Defence childcare service provider, One Tree Community Services, provide support to families who need help to find appropriate childcare. The ICM service provides parents with options that will allow them to decide which childcare service best suits their family. It is available to all ADF families across Australia.

The placement assistance service is free. Normal childcare fees will apply for any options selected by families.

To discuss your family’s needs, call the all-hours Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 or email defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au.

DCO Amberley

The DCO Amberley office is at Building 726, Hudson Road, RAAF Base Amberley, next to AAFCANS. You can call or email the Amberley team on 5361 1678 or email them at dco.amberley@defence.gov.au. Alternatively, you can call the all-hours Defence Family Helpline 1800 624 608 or email defencefamilyhelpline@ defence.gov.au for an appointment. Follow Defence Community Organisation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates and information from your local Amberley team. You can also email dco.amberley@ defence.gov.au to be added to the DCO Amberley monthly bulletin email distribution list.

Hunter families took a ‘Rock pool ramble’ with an eco tour guide and uncovered the hidden sea life at Boat Harbour, Port Stephens. Karly Smith image.

defence.gov.au/dco

Global thinking, Territory spirit. The ESSINGTON School

Powered by the pioneering spirit of the Northern Territory for over 30 years, our vision is to create an inspiring environment that fuels creativity and imagination, motivates students to be the best that they can be and where everyone can belong.

Defence families are a very important and dynamic part of Essington and we heartily welcome students from Defence families into our school.

Global thinking, Territory spirit.

Enrol Now | enrolments@essington.nt.edu.au | 08 7913 8280 essington.nt.edu.au

RELOCATING?

At this time of year, many ADF members and their families will be relocating. This means many additional tasks to fit into an already busy time of year. Making a ‘To-do’ list can help you plan what needs to be done and keep track of your progress. Here are some tips to make the move a bit smoother.

Entitlements

The first step to a successful move is to know what your entitlements are. The Toll Defence Relocation Guide and the DHA Tenant Handbook will help you navigate this process and alert you to helpful services like fast disconnection and reconnection services for your utilities.

Reconnaissance

You, or your spouse, may be entitled to a house hunting trip to visit the new posting location to find a Service residence or home for which rent allowance is payable. An advance visit also gives you a chance to check out schools, recreation and other local facilities. Be aware that if, after receiving a house hunting allowance, you reject a reasonable offer of service residence or rented home, you must repay any money received for the house-hunting trip.

Moving out costs

Defence will cover the cost of packing and moving your household contents and larger items like motor vehicles. Running down things like food, cleaning products and toiletries means you’ll have less to move and less wastage. Any money you save could be put towards restocking at the other end. The property you’re leaving, including gardens and other outdoor areas, must be left clean and in an acceptable condition. It’s up to you whether you do this yourself or pay someone to help you. If the DHA property has carpet, you will be charged for carpet cleaning after you move out. You may also be charged for things like repainting and garden maintenance for issues not considered fair wear and tear. If you disagree with an assessment DHA has a complaints resolution process, see the DHA Tenant Handbook for details.

Moving in costs

The cost of living in your new location may be higher or lower than your current location, especially if you are moving between a capital city and a regional area, in or out of Darwin or other remote area. If you are moving into somewhere particularly hot or cold, consider the impact cooling or heating will have on your utility costs. Now might be a good time to reassess your current budget and make adjustments so that you are better prepared financially for the move. If you’ve had items in storage that are moving with you, chances are they’ll need a good clean. Furniture like lounges or mattresses may benefit from a professional clean. Houses come in different sizes and layouts so you may need to buy new furniture to better fit the space. Consider selling what you don’t need and using the money to purchase items you do need. Restocking your pantry, cleaning supplies and other things will increase your costs initially, however a larder allowance is available to help with these costs.

Family

Arriving in a new location means finding new healthcare providers. If you have private health insurance your insurer may have lists of appropriate providers in the new area. If you have children with special needs or health conditions, talk to the new school to make sure care or health plans are in place. If you’re travelling with your family, you’ll need to factor in additional costs of food while you’re on the road. You’ll receive an allowance, but staying within that allowance can be hard if you haven’t planned ahead. Also consider the cost of posting Christmas presents to family and friends. It may be more cost effective to shop online and have items delivered directly.

Pets

If you have pets, find out the registration requirements in the state you’re moving to. Be aware of any additional costs you may incur above your entitlement for things like extra kennelling or quarantine. Be aware also of state restrictions on pet ownership, e.g. some suburbs have cat containment areas and rabbits are not allowed as pets in Queensland.

Cars

If you move states and take motor vehicles with you, you’ll need to register them in the new state. In some states this will require a roadworthy certificate. If you are driving an older vehicle it may actually be cheaper to sell your current vehicle and buy another one when you reach your destination. Research your options before making any decisions.

Insurance

You’ll need to notify your car and home contents insurer(s) that the location of your insured possessions has changed. Your insurance premium may go up or down as a result of the move. If it goes up you will have to pay extra. If your premium goes down, you should get a refund.

Connect

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 new posting location to share your experiences and get tips from others to make resettling a little easier on you and your family. Good luck with the move!

Proud Defence Partner for more than twelve years

Nicole Rowley is a proud Defence partner and who has supported her husband throughout his Air Force journey in the past 12.5 years.

Moving around every few years and being away from family and friends has not been easy for Nicole, but luckily, she was able to tap into various Defence support groups and build a strong network in Wagga Wagga.

“Simon and I are originally from Barossa Valley, South Australia," Nicole, mother of two said. "Simon joined the Air Force 12.5 years ago and has been posted to Wagga, Adelaide and then back to Wagga.”

“I have supported my husband through the recruiting process, recruit training, training at the RAAF School of Technical Training and various deployments.”

“We have been in Wagga for around 18 months for this posting.”

Nicole found it relatively easy to find work within the Wagga area, however she said living in a remote location did make her feel lonely sometimes.

“Fortunately, the local DCO network has been a great assistance, they always offer a great support in helping people meet new partners and link people to services in Wagga Wagga.”

“I regularly attend Coffee Connections and many of the family events they put on.

“Wagga Wagga also has The RAAF, Army, Navy Community House (The RANCH) and Kapooka Neighbourhood House that are fantastic support to new partners and their families.

“I am the Vice President/Public Officer of The RANCH. We hold weekly morning teas, playtime and fitness classes; as well as monthly dinners and kids activities.”

Mrs Rowley said being a Defence partner is a very different lifestyle to get used to, but fortunately many Defence partners are keen to support each other.

“No one else will truly understand what you are going through other than other Defence partners, and because of this they are a great support network to lean on.

“Most military posting locations have local Facebook pages specifically for Defence families that are a wealth of knowledge.

“I ran into a Defence partner that I haven’t seen in 10 years over ANZAC day and it was like no time has passed- you will have friends in every state eventually.”

Nicole suggested for Defence partners to build a strong network as quickly as possible so they can settle into the local area, saying that many partners ended up enjoying the local networks so much that they did not want to leave at the end of the posting.

Helen Marshall, the Family Liaison Officer at DCO Wagga said DCO offered a range of programs and services to help ADF families to manage the military way of life.

“DCO services include a 24-hour Defence Family Helpline, social worker support, assistance with partner employment, facilitating access to childcare, assistance for dependants with special needs, support for Defence community groups, help for families during crisis and emergency, education support for children and assistance for members transitioning from the permanent ADF," Helend said.

“DCO have offices in all states and territories, which offer a wide range of services and programs to help families manage posting and relocation, and absences from home due to Service reasons.

“Families can contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608, or defencefamilyhelpline@defence. gov.au, or visit the DCO website, www.defence.gov.au/dco for more information. Families can also follow DCO on social media to keep up-todate with DCO events and activities.”