DefenceLife 2016 LIFESTYLE GUIDE FOR AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FAMILIES
LIFESTYLE
FAMILY MATTERS SUPPORT PROGRAMS MILITARY LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS LOCATION PROFILES
EDUCATION
SCHOOLING OPTIONS STATE BY STATE PROGRAMS
LOOKING FORWARD
CAREER OPTIONS POST-ADF CAREER
DEFENCE FAMILIES
RELOCATION | CAREER | EDUCATION WEALTH | EMPLOYMENT | TRANSITION
MARK DONALDSON VC
VICTORIA CROSS RECIPIENT A SOLDIERS STORY INSIDE
IPSWICH GRAMMAR SCHOOL ipswichgrammar.com
FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to the 15th issue of DefenceLife Magazine! DefenceLife magazine aims to inform Defence personnel and families on a range of issues that impact on their lives both within the Australian Defence Force and as part of the local community. This national edition covers lifestyle and career aspects of military service along with advice on the planning and actions required to meet personal and career goals when transitioning to civilian life. DefenceLife outlines the issues in a general sense, assuming that individuals will seek appropriate specialist advice from Service and other authorities on specific issues that affect their lives and future. As always, we welcome your feedback on the magazine.
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QUEENSLAND
MANAGING EDITOR
LIFESTYLE
FAMILY MATTERS | SUPPORT PROGRAMS MILITARY LIFE | HEALTH & FITNESS LOCATION PROFILES
EDUCATION
SCHOOLING OPTIONS | STATE BY STATE TRAINING PROGRAMS
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NORTHERN TERRITORY
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
LOOKING FORWARD
CAREER OPTIONS | POST-ADF CAREER MANAGING EDITOR
John Armstrong
ADVERTISING
Suzette Armstrong
PRODUCTION
Michelle Burt | Joanne Pollard
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES O7 3282 9019 EMAIL
info@strikepublications.com.au
WEBSITE
defencelife.com.au
/defencelifemag
NEW SOUTH WALES
VICTORIA
PUBLISHED BY STRIKE PUBLICATIONS PTY LTD PO BOX 124, IPSWICH Q 4305 | ABN 41 010 922 335 PUBLISHER’S DISCLAIMER DefenceLife is produced by Strike Publications Pty Ltd as a commercial venture. The views expressed in the magazine are not those of the Department of Defence. The magazine contains a variety of articles aimed at informing Defence personnel and families on a range of issues relevant to Service life and is not to be considered as authoritative source material. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and currency in the articles presented, reliance should not be placed on the information contained therein without reference to the relevant Department of Defence authorities. All advertisements in this magazine are protected by copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS In compiling articles for this magazine, research material and media release images were obtained from several public access websites. These websites are duly acknowledged: Department of Defence - www. defence.gov.au • General information on Defence matters plus images of Defence people and operations Defence Community Organisation - www.defence.gov.au/dco • Information on family support programs Defence Personnel Executive - www.defence.gov.au/dpe • Career transition and resettlement information Tourism Queensland - www.tq.com.au Tourism Northern Territory - www.tourismnt.com.au Tourism South Australia – www.southaustralia.com.au Tourism Victoria - www.tourismvictoria.com.au Tourism New South Wales – www.tourism.nsw.gov.au Australian Capital Territory - www.tamsact.gov.au Tourism Western Australia - www.westernaustralia.com Tourism Tasmania – www.tourismtasmania.com.au • Images of places, people and events Education Queensland - www.education.qld.gov.au Education Northern Territory - www.det.nt.gov.au Education South Australia - www.decs.sa.gov.au Education Victoria - www.education.vic.gov.au Education New South Wales - www.schools.nsw.edu.au Education Australian Capital Territory - www.det.act.gov.au Education Western Australia - www.det.wa.edu.au Education Tasmania - www.education.tas.gov.au • Information on enrolment, curriculum, term dates. Please note that information in the articles was current at time of printing but latest developments should be checked with the relevant Defence and other authorities for currency and any changes to conditions.
TASMANIA
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
LOOKING FORWARD
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Defence Familie DEFENCE FAMILIES
ON THE MOVE WITH DHA
Defence Housing Australia, along with hundreds of Defence members and their families, are gearing up for another end of year peak posting period. Defence Housing Australia provides housing and related services for Defence members and their families. DHA will support you and your family throughout your tenancy, from moving in, living in, and moving out of your home. DHA will help you with: finding and securing your future Defence home – using DHA’s online HomeFind tool; your housing entitlements, including Rent Allowance or Living In Accommodation; arranging all your DHA housing maintenance requirements; Rent Band Choice Housing – this provides you with a range of housing choices to suit your lifestyle; and Fast Connect, a free service for the disconnection of major utilities and telecommunication services. HomeFind is DHA’s online tool for allocating housing. This tool enables service personnel and their families to view houses that are within their housing entitlement. You will be able to view: floor plans; maps of the area, schools, hospitals and other facilities; full property descriptions of the yard, interior fittings flooring and appliance information; local region information (e.g. climate). Call DHA on 139 DHA (139 342) between 8.30 am and 5 pm EST Monday to Friday. www.dha.gov.au/
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Defence Families OF AUSTRALIA
Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is the official body appointed by government to represent the views of Defence Families. Its aim is to inform government and Defence on the needs of the family. Its goal is to ensure quality of life for all Defence families by providing a recognised forum for their views and by reporting, making recommendations and influencing policy that directly affects families. In turn, this enhances the capability of the Australian Defence Force. ADF families can contact DFA to represent them regarding an individual situation or to advocate an issue concerning many families. DFA is made up of Defence spouses, and the organisation relies on the generosity of Defence spouses to offer their time to support the Defence community through DFA. Volunteering for DFA is a valuable and rewarding experience and makes a huge difference to improving the conditions of our unique lifestyle and our Defence community. Mobility means that DFA has a regular turnover of volunteers, as families post in and out of locations. Living the lifestyle, spouses are well placed to represent other families from all over Australia. DFA representatives have worked energetically to improve conditions for Defence families particularly in the areas of relocations, housing policy, spouse employment and
children’s education. DFA is recognised by Defence and its stakeholders to provide feedback on views and interests of ADF families. The Convenor and volunteer Delegates work directly with Regional Managers and local Commanding Officers to clarify or resolve issues affecting families. The Convenor meets regularly with the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Chief of the Defence Force, and the Heads of Defence Departments to report and make recommendations on behalf of ADF families. DFA consults with Defence’s own support agencies, such as the Defence Community Organisation (DCO) and the National Welfare Coordination Centre (NWCC), but acts only as an advocate, not as a support provider. Defence families can contact DFA to represent them regarding an individual situation, or to act as an advocate on an issue concerning many families. Defence Families of Australia celebrated 25 years of representing Defence Families in Government and Defence forums during 2011 by holding a series of events and publishing a book, Voices. www.dfa.org.au
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Defence Familie DEFENCE FAMILIES
HOW DO I BECOME A RECOGNISED DEFENCE PARTNER?
Defence Community ORGANISATION
The Defence Community Organisation offers a broad range of programs and services to help Defence families face the challenges and make the most of the opportunities provided by military life. The DCO employs a range of staff to deliver services and programs, including professional Social Workers, uniformed Military Support Officers, Regional Education Liaison Officers, and Family Liaison Officers. In addition, the DCO supports members and families, on behalf of command authorities, by providing assistance in the event of accident, illness or hospitalisation. DCO also assists in managing casualties and estates and provides family support at times of bereavement. SOCIAL WORKERS Defence social workers are qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about the Australian Defence Force and the lifestyle of its members. Social workers are able to provide confidential services to assist you to understand and address personal, family and work-related problems. Social workers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact your local DCO Office during business hours, or through the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608. MILITARY SUPPORT OFFICER Military Support Officers (MSO) are uniformed members from the three Services who provide support, advice, and assistance to individual clients and undertake a liaison function with units and command. MSOs provide practical support to members and their families in
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relation to military matters. They also have a particular role with command and families in the event of illness or death of a serving member. REGIONAL EDUCATION LIAISON OFFICER Regional Education Liaison Officers (REDLO) are professionally trained educators who understand both the different state education systems and the Defence environment. They are available to provide advice to Defence families and children on education issues, particularly matters relating to mobility and relocation. REDLOs can assist with the transition between the various state and territory primary, secondary and tertiary education systems. FAMILY LIAISON OFFICER Family Liaison Officers (FLO) provide community-based information, support and assistance to individual members, partners and families, and to Defence sponsored groups. These services are available at any time, however, FLOs are particularly proactive in regard to welcome activities in relation to new postings and settling in to a new area, or during the deployment of ADF members. If you wish to contact a FLO, contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608. The Helpline operates 24-7 and is staffed by qualified human services professionals. www.defence.gov.au/dco
Official recognition of a partner (dependant) by the Australian Defence Force is necessary to access certain benefits including relocation, housing and support services. The process of being recognised as a Defence partner is known as Recognition as a Dependant. The process is open to spouses (married) or interdependent partners (de facto), including same sex partners. A spouse or independent partner must normally have lived with the ADF member for a continuous period of no less than 90 days before making the application. A spouse must provide evidence of marriage. Documentation needed to recognise an interdependent partnership for a member includes a Statutory Declaration plus four items of documentary evidence. The evidence must show that you have lived with the member together on a permanent basis in a bona fide, domestic, interdependent partnership for a period of not less than 90 continuous days; and have maintained a common household. WHY IS NEXT OF KIN IMPORTANT? All ADF members are required to list a Next of Kin in the Defence Human Resources Database, PMKeys. If there is no recognised partner, Next of Kin may be an unrecognised partner, parent or friend. Next of Kin are entitled to Defence support in the event of an emergency. It is extremely important to ensure that Next of Kin information on the PMKeys Database is up to date, including current addresses and phone numbers. Remember to call the National Welfare Coordination Centre on 1800 801 026 to update your details if you go on holiday during the ADF member’s deployment period.
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TOLL TRANSITIONS’ RELOCATIONS SERVICE
Toll Transitions has been appointed by the Department of Defence to provide ADF members and their families with a total relocation service. Toll Transitions offers a range of services to help you to move to your new posting or to relocate should you have a Change in Personal Circumstances. A Toll Transitions Case Manager will assist you with organising all your relocation requirements, including: arranging your removal(s) and storage; booking your travel and temporary accommodation; and calculating and arranging payments/ reimbursement of your relocation allowances and entitlements You are encouraged to submit your Application for Relocation (AFR) documentation online. The Department of Defence sets the policy for ADF member relocation. Please refer to the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) to familiarise yourself with your relocation entitlements. If you are relocating on a posting, your Posting Order is the authority for your removal entitlement. Toll Transitions receives Posting Orders automatically from Defence however from time to time it may not have been received and you may be required to provide a copy for your move. If your relocation is as a result of a Change in
Personal Circumstances, you will be required to provide Toll Transitions with supporting documentation to enable your entitlement to removal to be assessed and approved. Upon receipt of your Posting Order from Defence, Toll Transitions will send to you a Pre-Application for Relocation (Pre-AFR) letter. The Pre-AFR enables you to notify us of your plans to move including providing tentative move dates. Pre-AFR information also gives Defence Housing Australia (DHA) advance notification of your intent to vacate & occupy a residence. Defence implemented a Whole of Relocation Cost model (WORC) for all domestic relocations within Australia from August 2013. If there are valid reasons that dictate you must uplift on your preferred date, you must complete this form, gain unit approval and submit it with your AFR. Once your Application for Relocation (AFR) has been submitted Toll will determine the most cost effective date within the week of your preferred date and confirm with you within approximately two weeks. During your posting, Toll Transitions’ online relocation system allows you to input, update and maintain your removal inventory details providing you with a current record of your goods. It also allows you to re-use your inventory, should you relocate again.
OUR ONLY MISSION IS TO LOOK AFTER YOU. When you join Defence Health, it’s our job to take care of you like part of the family. And we love our job. We understand the lifestyle of serving members, which is why we offer tailored health cover with higher benefits exclusively for ADF and Reservist families. Our ADF Total Package includes higher benefits on dental, speech therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, antenatal and postnatal services and more.
Join the family. Call 1800 335 425 or visit defencehealth.com.au
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Defence Familie DEFENCE FAMILIES
CHANGING YOUR DRIVER’S LICENCE
With the exception of the Northern Territory, Commonwealth, State and Territory authorities have agreed to the implementation of a Defence Driving Licence Scheme (DDLS) for ADF personnel and eligible members of their families. Under the DDLS, personnel and their families’ driving licences will be recognised throughout Australia and thus no requirement exists to change a driving licence solely because of a transfer interstate. However, on expiry, licences are to be renewed in the current State or Territory of domicile. Defence members and their dependants are able to drive on their interstate licence as long as they have been issued with the Driver Identification document issued by the Department of Defence (AB-135), available from the member’s administrative unit. The DDLS does not apply to transfer of vehicle registration., which is linked to Compulsory Third Party insurance schemes supplied by the private sector.
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DEFENCE SERVICE HOMES INSURANCE
for peace of mind
Defence Service Homes Insurance offers a range of home, contents and other insurance policies that provide comprehensive cover with value-for-money premiums.
DefenceLife 2014-10-17T15:11:55+11:00
BUILDING INSURANCE Comprehensive insurance with economical premiums combined with a range of other benefits makes our policies different to any other on the market. HOME CONTENTS INSURANCE Getting the right insurance is a big priority and it means making sure you get the cover you need, together with the care you want and deserve. TRAVEL INSURANCE We can provide travel insurance with our partner QBE. COMPULSORY THIRD PARTY (NSW & QLD ONLY) Essential to have, easy to purchase. You can now arrange your CTP with QBE. PLEASURE CRAFT DSHI’s comprehensive pleasure craft policy
provides cover for accidental loss or damage to your to your pleasure craft. RESIDENTIAL LANDLORD Making sure your asset doesn’t become a liability. DSHI Landlords’ Insurance provides cover for accidental loss or damage, malicious damage by tenants or their family and visitors to your investment property and contents. And, for an extra premium, cover for rent default. CARAVAN, DOMESTIC TRAILER AND MOTORCYCLE DSHI’s policy provides cover for loss, theft or damage to your vehicle, as well as legal liability. Private Motor. DSHI offers a range of private motor insurance options to match your vehicle and budget. You have the flexibility to choose from several cover options. For insurance emergency after hours assistance contact 1300 552 662.
PERSONAL INSURANCE FOR VETERANS AND ADF MEMBERS
COVER
PLUS THE
CARE
WWW.DSH.GOV. AU TO COMPARE THE FEATURES CALL
1300 552 662
• Home • Contents • Landlords Liability • Car • Caravans • Trailers • Private pleasure craft • Motorcycles • Travel
Pay your premiums by direct debit at no extra cost (not applicable to Travel and CTP) (The Defence Service Homes Insurance Scheme underwrites the DSHI Home Building policy. All other policies are underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035. AFS Licence 239 545). Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement of the particular product before making any decisions about the product.
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Defence Familie MARK DONALDSON VC: DEFENCE FAMILIES
a soldier’s story
Soldiers who do heroic things usually say they were just doing their job; that most people have bravery within, given opportunity and circumstance,. This is certainly the case with Mark Donaldson, awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia, the nation’s highest military honour for exceptional bravery. The Victoria Cross recognised Donaldson’s extraordinary courage during combat under exceptional circumstances. In Afghanistan in 2008 his patrol was ambushed and came under heavy fire from a Taliban force that surrounded them. During the fire-fight, after enduring hours of intense fire, Trooper Donaldson risked his own life to rescue a badly wounded Afghan interpreter, who then survived and eventually recovered from his injuries – but that’s not the whole story of the combat engagement. In his book, The Crossroad, Donaldson recounts how the convoy of vehicles transporting about 40 Australians, Afghans and Americans was attacked by a numerically superior, entrenched and coordinated enemy force. He writes that when returning to a forward operating base through a pass in the mountains “...the air erupted. Rounds and rocket-powered grenades were zinging past the cars.”
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“My job was to get a 84mm rocket launcher, push out to a flank and return fire... with the rocket I was able to seemingly nullify one Taliban position, but it was impossible to tell how many of the enemy were firing at us.” The opening assault went on for about 20 minutes, then a volley of rounds cut through the patrol, from behind. Exposed and surrounded, the convoy got some relief from a US Air Force F/A-18 Hornet fighter called in by controllers to strafe Taliban positions to the north with 30mm cannon fire. But the relief was short lived, with fire seemingly coming from all sides. “We were on the receiving end. Every car was getting covered in buzzing hornets [incoming rounds], and RPGs were flying across the bonnet,” he writes. A period of continual fire followed. With casualties mounting and realising the Taliban had their weapons set for the vehicles location, pushing forward to the end of the valley, and safety, was the only option. From above it must have looked like a scene from a Mad Max movie, with the enemy rolling along shadowing the convoy for more than two hours, firing the whole time. Inching towards the safe zone an RPG exploded above the vehicles, the force throwing two people out. One was an Afghan interpreter badly wounded and lying face down in the dirt about 80 metres back. Donaldson made his decision: “a lot of fire was still coming in, hitting the ground around us. I said nothing. And then I took off.” In self-deprecating fashion, typical of warriors, Donaldson describes his memories of combat as “concentrating on doing my job” and being “highly aware of everything going on around me.” He writes that contact with the enemy is about fighting alongside mates, indeed fighting to survive, and that the events of 2 September 2008 changed his life, and in some ways defined him as a soldier and as a man. Most soldiers identified for heroism define these exceptional events in combat as just one instance of the job that goes on every day. In Mark’s case he is very aware of how important the Victoria Cross is to other people: its symbolism of bravery under fire and shared recognition bestowed on all those who fight for their country. “For that interpreter, it meant the difference between life and death... but to my wife, Emma, it’s not a pleasant memory. It’s the day when, in her mind, I could just as easily have not come
home.” In ‘The Crossroad’, Mark describes his early life as a rebellious teenager coping badly with what life through at him: the early death of his father – a Vietnam veteran – and the sudden disappearance of his mother, presumably murdered. All this, when he and his brother were in their mid-teens. By his own admission, he was rebellious “deadbeat kid”, anti-authority and anticommitment, and he prized his freedom above all else. “I was on track to becoming a professional dirtbag. Anyone who knew me would have seen a total rebel, the opposite of a uniformed soldier.” But despite these turbulent, non-conformist years Mark showed a fierce determination to succeed in life. At age 19, with both parents deceased and inglorious years as a teenager behind him, Mark decided on an Army career, specifically with the SAS. He undertook a punishing personal training program, with the sole intention of becoming a special forces soldier, and he realised that ambition after just three years in the Army. With all the challenges growing up combined with his experiences in the military, Mark firmly believes that confronting major challenges in life can shape the type of person who wants to take on the challenges of being an elite soldier. Anyone who expects soldiers who experience combat and see extreme suffering, such as that inflicted by the Taliban on their own people, to have a forgiving nature are mistaken. Mark has little tolerance for the Taliban, and he has little time for the ‘armchair’ intellectuals who proffer a view as to how the military should conduct operations, confronted with life threatening situations. It’s also difficult for returning soldiers to fit into a society preoccupied with seemingly mundane and unimportant issues that present life challenges. Mark is philosophical about life in the military and the assignment of a combat role. “When you go to war, there’s a chance someone will get hurt, whether that’s physically wounded, psychologically wounded, or losing their life and never coming back to their family. That’s who we are. We sign up for that. That’s why we train and work so hard, to minimise the threat. I’m proud of our efforts in pitting good training and smart operations against a ruthless insurgency and the ever-present demon of bad luck.” Mark Donaldson at Tarin Kowt 2011 (Defence Photo)
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Girls only from Years 7 to 12
Co-ed from Kindy to Year 6 DefenceLife
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Defence Familie ‘civvy’ qualifications DEFENCE FAMILIES
GET THEM NOW
No one wants to willingly come out and say it: “I’m not actually qualified to do this.” This is a natural reservation, comtemplating your future away from the security and relative safety of the Defence Force. This may seem a contradiction – given that military service is potentially a very dangerous, even life threatening profession – but military life is clearly predictable, with mature support structures in place for personnel and their families. On the other hand, life outside the military is unpredictable, especially for those people who only know the structured life within the defence forces. When the time comes to think seriously about leaving the ADF, when it’s time to update that resume and prepare for job search, the truth can hit home – has enough been done to prepare for transition into ‘civvy street’. Many defence personnel build their life around their military career but put aside the real need to acquire equivalent civilian qualfications, have those qualifications recognised and undergo training where necessay to upgrade those qualifications.
The thing is, defence personnel have great skills, excellent work ethic along with mature organisational and supervision skills, they just don’t have a piece of paper that certifies that experience and those achievements. Now, they may find a prospective employer who says formally recognised qualifications aren’t that important, that experience in work and life is what they’re looking for... Wrong! Most employers want to see formal qualifications before they assess work and life experience. It’s just a fact of business life. But don’t sweat. Defence personnel are in the fortunate position of having years of experience behind them and skills learnt over time. Getting that recognised qualification might not actually mean going back to the classroom… because there’s something called RPL, which stands for Recognition of Prior Learning. You may have heard of RPL before, and you might have heard it’s a pretty complicated and time-consuming process. And it can be… but it doesn’t have to be. The first step in gaining those industry recognisable qualifications is to find the righ
career ‘coach’. Someone who can provide the guidance necessary to get that ‘piece of paper’. Check with your TAFE, college or registered training organisation (RTO) before you enrol. All RTOs are required to offer RPL assessment. You can also contact the Department of Education and Training on 1300 369 935 to discuss your RPL options.
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Defence Familie DEFENCE FAMILIES
New ADF Super WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU
A new military superannuation scheme called ‘ADF Super’ will be introduced into the ADF from July 2016 along with an accompanying statutory death and invalidity scheme known as ‘ADF Cover’. Historically, ADF members could be members of one of two superannuation schemes: • Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) scheme. This scheme was closed to new members on 1 October 1991. • Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme (MSBS), commonly known as Military Super. The new ADF Super arrangements will apply to: • Those joining the ADF for the first time on and after 1 July 2016 • Current MSBS members who choose to join ADF Super; MSBS members will not be compelled to move to ADF Super. • Former serving MSBS members who re-join the ADF and choose to become a member of ADF Super; and • MSBS and Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) scheme members who receive retirement pay and re-join the ADF on a full time basis or as a Reservist on Continuous Full Time Service on or after 1 July 2016. • Current DFRDB members are unable to transfer to ADF Super. The proposed new military superannuation arrangements will establish ADF Super and ADF Cover and the current MSBS will close to new members from 1 July 2016. ADF SUPER – WHAT’S DIFFERENT? From 1 July 2016, ADF Super will be the default fund for anyone joining the permanent ADF for the first time. ADF Super is a fully-funded accumulation
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plan with an employer contribution of 16.4 per cent. ADF Super is underpinned by a new death and invalidity scheme called ADF Cover Members can transfer their accumulated benefits to a new fund at any time. Members will not be required to make personal contributions, unless they wish to. Members will be able to make salary sacrifice contributions in line with relevant superannuation or taxation legislation. ADF Super members will be able to choose any complying fund. Unlike previous military schemes, such as the MSBS which requires a minimum employee contribution of five per cent of salary, there will be no requirement for ADF Super members to make employee contributions to their superannuation. As a result, contributing MSBS members who choose to become ADF Super members will immediately receive a five per cent increase to their take home pay as they are no longer required to make compulsory employee contributions. Accompanying ADF Super will be a new statutory death and invalidity scheme, known as ADF Cover. ADF Cover will be consistent with the death and invalidity arrangements ADF personnel currently receive as MSBS members. ADF Cover aims to ensure that ADF members are properly looked after, for the rest of their life if required, in the event they are injured during their ADF service.
INSURANCE THROUGH YOUR SUPER FUND Most super funds will give you access to insurance cover. Why have insurance? None of us really likes thinking about being seriously injured or dying, but for the people left behind, dealing with the financial consequences, which can be complex and distressing. Insurance can give you peace of mind in case the worst happens. Regulations exist that ensure employers choose default super funds that offer insurance cover to ensure Australian families are supported. What type of insurance is available? Super funds may offer a variety of insurance types, although most offer death cover. Death cover provides money to your beneficiaries if you die, while Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) cover provides money to you if you can’t work due to a permanent illness or injury. A combination of death and TPD cover is also an option. Income protection (or salary continuance) cover gives you a regular income for a period of time if you can’t work due to serious illness or injury. The level and timing of payments depends on the policy and your insured income What does it cost? Your insurance premiums will depend on the policy you choose and may be affected by your age, gender, health and occupation.
Shan Badowski
ADMINISTRATION MANAGER AV SUPER
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SALARY SACRIFICE - A SMART OPTION Sacrificing salary may not seem like a way to actually save money, but by taking advantage of income restructuring you can pay less tax on the money you receive as salary. Under salary packaging arrangements, personnel may choose to receive salary as a combination of cash plus approved benefits that are tax-free or taxed at concessional rates. The Australian Taxation Office approves of employees salary packaging, by replacing some of their cash salary with benefits that lower taxable income. The Government also supports salary packaging, especially sacrificing into superannuation because it encourages investment in retirement benefits that ultimately takes pressure off social security payments such as the age pension. Personnel can customise their salary package by choosing benefits that best suit individual needs. It provides the option to include a range of benefits that offer both convenience and the advantage of using income more effectively. Items which can be accessed under a salary sacrifice arrangement include motor vehicles, income protection insurance, work related travel that Defence approves but does not pay for, which might include fares, meals and accommodation, and self-education expenses which are work related.
Savings gained by salary packaging compared to paying for the same expenses without packaging may be significant and will depend upon salary, the benefits selected, the amount spent on those benefits and other personal circumstances. All permanent ADO members are eligible to salary package and ADF personnel and civilian employees located overseas are able to
participate in salary packaging but are unable to package motor vehicles. Reserve members on Continuous Full Time Service are able to salary package during their period of employment, provided that the arrangements can be accommodated within the period of employment. Salary packaging is voluntary and can be entered into at any time.
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Education Path defence families EDUCATION PATHWAYS
EDUCATION AND
Regular interstate transfers and deployments are all part of the job for Defence personnel, but often it’s families who are affected most by tranfers, particularly the change of education system.
To help alleviate some of the impact when transfering between schools, Defence provides a first-class educational advisory service. School is compulsory for all children aged between five and 15 years, which may vary slightly in some states. The government provides public schools, with schooling provided free of fees. Churches and other groups provide private schooling, with users paying fees. EDUCATION SUPPORT The Education Assistance Scheme (EAS) provides a range of financial support to Defence children. Tutoring: School aged children on transfer to a new location may be entitled to 14 weeks of tutoring in any subject identified by the school as indicating a gap in the child’s learning. Boarding School Allowances: Assistance may be available under the EAS to enable ADF families to access boarding school for a dependant in the critical years of schooling. Special Needs Assistance: The EAS can provide assistance for assessment, therapy and additional support for students who are receiving these services. Tuition fees may also be provided for a child with special needs. Defence Scholarships: Defence sponsors four scholarships per year for dependants of personnel working in Defence Organisation, and is managed by AFS Intercultural Programs Australia and DCO. Defence School Transition Program The Defence School Transition Aide Program has two parts; Defence School Transition Aides in primary schools and Defence Transition
Mentors in secondary schools nationally. This program is designed to facilitate the best possible educational outcomes for dependants of ADF members and to provide support during parental absences for service reasons. Defence recognises that some children of ADF members may experience some disruption to both the academic and social aspects of their schooling each time they move. The different structures of the education systems between Australian states and territories can result in learning gaps. DSTAs support the smooth transition of mobile ADF dependants from school to school and across curriculum jurisdictions upon ADF relocations or postings. The DSTA is a school-based position which focuses on practical support integrated into the classroom, school and school community.
Some activities performed by DSTAs include: • being a point of contact for parents of new ADF children in the school • coordinating appropriate welcome and farewell activities • introducing ADF parents and children to the school and its facilities • supporting individual children during parental absences • providing opportunities for ADF families to meet other ADF families • enhancing the relationship between the school and their Defence community To find out which schools have DSTAs in your region, contact the Regional Education Liaison Officer at your local Defence Community Organisation Office. www.defence.gov.au/dco
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hways TRANSFERRING TO ANOTHER SCHOOL
BRISBANE CATHOLIC EDUCATION -
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. ISDTNis designed to transfer information between schools about students who move interstate, enabling new schools to support the educational placements of new students. Curriculum resource lists and a prospectus containing detailed information on school policies, courses, and enrolment procedures are available from schools. When transferring between schools: • consider timing - will the move coincide with the change of term? • involve your children in discussions and decisions about moving - this may help allay any fears or concerns they have if you are moving from another state. • discuss the forthcoming move with your current school and collect documentation outlining student achievement levels and education history - this will help with appropriate placement at the new school • prepare a list of your children’s particular needs - e.g. preferred subjects, sporting and other interests, transport needs, extracurricular activities • consider subject choices, special education provisions, transport to and from school, traineeship programs, and cultural and sporting opportunities • consider behaviour management, discipline and uniform policies, the school buildings and grounds.
Catholic Education has a long history in Brisbane and Queensland. Since the first Catholic school opened here in 1845, hundreds of thousands of students have passed through Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Brisbane, before going on to make their mark in the wider community. Today, Catholic schools continue the mission of serving, supporting and leading all those engaged in the educational mission of the Church, conscious that, for many, the Catholic school is their main connection with the Church. Catholic education in the Archdiocese is promoted as a lifelong enterprise, inviting all those involved in educational ministry to be anchored in a Catholic vision that is personal and public, reflective and active, nurturing and transformative. The educational mission of Brisbane Catholic Education, as an evangelising agent of the Catholic Church, is to teach, challenge and transform the world through what it does and how it is done. Mission in this context is the result and lived out expression of an underpinning spirituality of communion. Mission is developed and expressed in ways that include individual, systemic and ecclesial dimensions. Catholic education is promoted as a lifelong enterprise, inviting all those involved in educational ministry to be anchored in a Catholic vision that is personal and public, reflective and active, nurturing and transformative. The educational mission of Brisbane Catholic Education, as an evangelising agent of the Catholic Church, is to teach, challenge and transform the world through what it does and how it is done. Spiritual Formation and Religious Education are key components in supporting our mission.
TEACHING, CHALLENGING AND TRANSFORMING
a Catholic school for your child
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Education Path curriculum EDUCATION PATHWAYS
THE AUSTRALIAN
The Australian Curriculum is being developed as a learning entitlement for each Australian student to provide a foundation for successful, lifelong learning and participation in the Australian community.
The Curriculum acknowledges the changing ways in which young people learn and the challenges that will continue to shape their learning in the future. The Australian Curriculum will eventually be developed for all learning areas and subjects: initially for English, mathematics, science and history; followed by geography, languages, the arts, economics, business, civics and citizenship, health and physical education, and information and communication technology and design and technology. The Australian Curriculum includes a focus on seven general capabilities (Literacy, Numeracy, Information and communication technology capability, Critical and creative thinking, Ethical behaviour, Personal and social capability and intercultural understanding) and three crosscurriculum priorities (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia and Sustainability). Continuation of learning has been developed for the general capabilities to describe the relevant knowledge, skills and understanding at particular points of schooling. The Australian Curriculum includes two goals:
Goal 1: Australian schooling promotes equity and excellence. Goal 2: All young Australians become successful learners, confident and creative individuals and active and informed citizens. The propositions that shape the development of the Australian Curriculum establish expectations that it is appropriate for all students. These propositions include: that each student can learn and that the needs of every student are important; that each student is entitled to knowledge, understanding and skills that provide a foundation for successful and lifelong learning and participation in the Australian community; that high expectations should be set for each student as teachers account for the current level of learning of individual students and the different rates at which students develop; that the needs and interests of students will vary, and that schools and teachers will plan from the curriculum in ways that respond to those needs and interests. Increasingly, in a world where knowledge itself is constantly growing and evolving, students need to develop a set of skills, behaviours and dispositions, or general
capabilities that apply across discipline content and equip them to be lifelong learners able to operate with confidence in a complex, information-rich, globalised world. The Australian Curriculum is online at www.australiancurriculum.edu.au
WHEN YOU TRANSITION, YOU’RE STILL PART OF THE FAMILY
Defence Health continues to protect what matters most to you. If you transition into the active Reserves you’ll still get access to our exclusive ADF packages. If you’re leaving the forces, we’ll give your family a 10% discount on our mix and match range of products for the first 12 months following discharge. Join within 2 months of discharge, for bonus hospital and extras waiting period waivers.* Call 1800 335 425 or visit defencehealth.com.au *Conditions apply.
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DEFENCE AND EDUCATION Each state government within Australia manages the school system within their state. This means that they provide funds and regulation for their schools. Both public schools and private schools exist in each state. The curriculum taught in each state or school may vary but the learning areas are the same in all. Each state has a Vocational Education and Training (VET) or Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system. VET prepares people for work in a career that does not need a university degree. Each state manages their system and meets at a national level to coordinate their effort. VET is transferable between all states. Typically, a VET/TAFE course takes two years of study. The Federal government provides funding for universities in all the states but each is independent in its governance. Typically, a university course takes three or four years of study. DEFINITION OF HIGHER EDUCATION In Australia, the term ‘higher education’ generally refers to education at degree level and above. In the Australian Qualifications Framework, higher education courses are
those leading to the award of associate degree, bachelor’s degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, master’s degree or doctoral degree. Some courses leading to the award of a diploma or advanced diploma may also be accredited as higher education. Almost all higher education in Australia is offered by universities. A small but growing number of non-university providers and overseas institutions also offer accredited higher education courses. Vocational education and training Vocational education and training (VET) provides skills and knowledge for work through a national training system. The system consists of a network of all State and Territory Governments, the Australian Government, along with industry and training providers that work together to provide nationally consistent training across Australia. VET in schools allows young people to remain enrolled at school while completing education and training programs delivered by other learning providers in the community, such as TAFE and other Registered Training Organisations.
COMMUNITY KIDS DIFFERENCE Experience the educational difference at Community Kids Early Education Centres, which offer your child a warm and caring environment, combined with fun and educational learning practises – the perfect place for your child to grow and learn! Each centre offers quality education and care for children up to 6 years, convenient opening hours and age specific resources for your child to enjoy. All centres offer exciting educational programs taught by qualified and caring educators aimed at providing your child with the skills they need now and later in life. At Community Kids our team of dedicated educators work closely with each child and their families to know their key strengths and areas of opportunity. Positions for 2016 are now available. To discover the Community Kids difference today or for more information please visit www.communitykids.com.au
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Defence Lifestyl MILITARYlifestyle DEFENCE LIFESTYLE
The Australian Defence Force has special requirements of its members that are formally accepted as conditions of servIce, and while families are not part of this commitment they are affected by military lifestyle.
Defence knows these military commitments sometimes impact as much on the family as they do on the serving member. Some of these expectations include: • Conforming to a regulated lifestyle • Being physically and medically fit • Adhering to the military structure • Being trained and qualified for the job • Being ready to serve anywhere, anytime • Abiding by military law and regulations • Dress and grooming standards Separation and relocation are key features of a military lifestyle. Defence knows that members perform at their best when they are confident that life at home will run smoothly while they are away. The best way to achieve this is by planning ahead about family requirements during separations and relocations, and having access to appropriate support services. Family readiness is just as important for single members. Informing and involving parents, siblings, friends and other people who are important to you when preparing for relocations, separations and the unique demands of military service, are critical to sustaining these relationships. SMART PROGRAMS Without the emotional and practical support of their families, ADF members simply could not do the job they are required to do. An ADF member has to be confident that their family is healthy and happy before they can wholeheartedly commit to doing their job well. A series of group programs that help Defence families manage stressful situations such as deployment, parental absence from home, and moving house have been developed.
TEENSMART TeenSMART workshops are for Defence teenagers to help them manage issues arising from deployment and relocation. During these workshops Defence teenagers can meet and share their stories about being part of a military family. They can also learn some ideas and tactics to help them stay connected to their parents while he/she is away on deployment, and meet new friends when they move to a new posting location. The workshop also covers other things, like managing change and coping when feeling stressed out. There are tips and hints for handling emotions, and some great relaxation techniques, too. KIDSMART KidSMART consists of a set of four week programs for primary aged kids to help them manage issues arising from posting, relocation and deployment. The KidSMART mascots, Tyler Turtle and Sam Super help kids learn how to manage change, stay connected with friends and meet new people. Sessions are once a week for 1 to 1.5 hours per session and all children receive a story book to take home. The workshops also cover other things, like helping children to cope when feeling stressed or anxious, particularly during times of parental absence and deployment. Kids can learn some techniques for handing emotions, and relaxation as well. Contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 for more information or to sign up for a program.
TALK TO CHILDREN ABOUT DEPLOYMENTS Time should be spent with children talking truthfully about deployments. Children of different ages need to be communicated with in ways appropriate for them to understand. Very young children do not have the language to comprehend what is happening, so they may not understand that the separation may only be for a period of time. It is important for them to maintain a special relationship with another parent or carer to help them deal with the changes in their life. For toddlers, it may not be helpful to talk about a parent going away too long in advance, as they have a different sense of time. A couple of days in advance is plenty of time. Preschoolers and school age children should be included in discussions about deployments much earlier, as they will know from conversations and preparations that something
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is going on. Dealing with reality is better than what they may imagine to be occurring. In talking about the deployment, explain at the appropriate level why Dad and/or Mum is going, where, with whom, and for how long. Sit down with the whole family and talk about feelings. Let children know that it is okay to talk about feelings (even negative feelings) by sharing your own feelings, and let each member of the family express how they feel about the separation. Encourage older children to talk with the younger ones about previous deployments; how long it seemed, what they did, how they felt while Mum or Dad was away and when they returned. Discussing the rules of the house and making them 'House Rules' rather than 'Mum's' or 'Dad's' rules will also help during the period of separation.
APPOINTING POWER OF ATTORNEY At time of deployment it’s a good idea to consider appointing a Power of Attorney. A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives another person/s or organisation power to make decisions on your behalf, relating to personal and/or health related matters and/or financial matters. There are two types of Powers of Attorney, a General Power of Attorney which is only valid while you are living and have mental or physical capacity to deal with your affairs, or an Enduring Power of Attorney which remains valid even if you become mentally or physically incapacitated. If you die, both types of Powers lapse and your executor will then administer your estate in accordance with the directions of your Will. You should only appoint someone whom you trust implicitly to act on your behalf. When you no longer require the person to act as your Attorney it is a good idea to have a revocation document signed revoking the power. Serving members can receive further information by contacting a legal representative.
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STAY CONNECTED DEFENCE FAMILY MATTERS Defence Family Matters is a free lifestyle magazine designed for Defence families. In DFM you can find articles celebrating Defence families, advice and tips for managing deployment, family member absence, relocation and posting and other aspects of military life. The magazine also publishes information on family support services available from Defence and the community, and news about changes in the Defence environment that affect families. The magazine is sent out three times a year to all ADF members who have one or more dependants and are permanent or on Continuous Fulltime Service. WANT TO BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR? Contributions are welcome from Defence family members, ADF members and community organisations supporting Defence families. For more information on how to contribute, check out the DFM website at www.defence.gov.au/ dco/defence_family_matters.htm. CONTACT US Any questions or feedback may be sent to: DefenceFamilyMatters@defence.gov.au
TAKE A ‘PEEP’ The Defence Community Organisation provides funding for employment and education expenses to assist recognised partners of ADF members to better position themselves for employment when posted with their partner. The Partner Employment and Education Program, or PEEP, offers various initiatives to eligible partners. Approved partners are provided with an education and employment allowance of $12 000 to use within 10 years. You can use up to $6000 of this allowance per posting, and apply it towards a range of education and employment expenses, including: • education or training courses, up to and including first time undergraduate degrees, • professional employment assistance, such as career advice and help with job applications, • personalised resume preparation, and • renewing professional registration in a new location. If you have any queries about PEEP, contact the all-hours Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 or DefenceFamilyHelpline@ defence.gov.au. HOW TO APPLY Applications are considered throughout the FY until funding allowance has been exhausted. Interested partners need to read the guidelines
and eligibility criteria and then fill in the application form. Ap will need to demonstrate the relevance of the proposed study to your chosen field of employment. Self-interest or hobby courses will not be funded under PEEP. Applicants should anticipate that it will take a minimum of 28 days from receipt of the application form and any necessary evidence as attachments to the application form) for an assesment to be made. Applicants will be notified in writing of the outcome of their application. All assistance provided under PEEP will attract Fringe Benefits Tax for the ADF member, not the partner. The DCO strongly advise applicants to seek financial advice about how this will affect your tax and benefits before committing to the program. ONLINE EMPLOYMENT RESOURCES There are several free employment resources available online. JobSearch is Australia’s largest free jobs website. It is a free service to help job seekers gain employment. Visit www.jobsearch.gov.au. The Australian Public Service Commission’s Cracking the code – How to apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service is an online resource with advice on answering selection criteria and handling an interview. Visit www.apsc.gov.au.
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Defencechild Lifestyl care DEFENCE LIFESTYLE
CHOOSING
Choosing the right child care can be a difficult decision for families, depending upon your family’s needs and the environment in which you and your child will feel most comfortable.
Child care services also provide an opportunity for your child to develop social, emotional and learning skills. Considerations include: • How many hours of care do I need? The whole day? Just mornings? Just afternoons? Just a few hours a week? Or occasionally? • Do I want my child cared for in a home environment or in a centre? • What kind of qualifications and experience do staff members have? • Does the centre offer a pre-school program? • What is the carer-to-child ratio? • Can I claim Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate for a certain centre? Here’s a brief description of the different types of child care. LONG DAY CARE Long day care is sometimes referred to as centre-based care and is generally provided in a building or part of a building that has been created specifically for use as a child care centre. Centres usually operate between 7:30 am and 6:00 pm and offer professional care for children aged 0-6. Children are usually grouped in rooms according to age and developmental stage. Child care is usually available for all day or part of the day at a centre. FAMILY DAY CARE Family day care is where a professional carer looks after your child in the carer’s home. Carers work mainly with children aged 0-6 who are not yet at school, but can also provide care for older school-aged children. Some carers may offer care overnight or on weekends. Some carers are self-employed but work with a family day care scheme. IN-HOME CARE In home care is similar to family day care but the professional carer looks after the child in your child’s home. However, it is not widely available and usually only an option where other forms of care are not suitable. In home care services are for families with children who cannot be cared for by other child care centres. OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE Outside school hours care centres provide care for primary school aged children, before and after school (7:30am - 9:00am and 3:00pm - 6:00pm), during school holidays and on pupil-free days. Vacation care is a type of outside school hours care that includes indoor and outdoor activities, and may be provided by the same organisation that runs before and after-school care. Centres are usually located on primary school sites. Some centres are located in a child care centre, community facility or outside-school hours care centre near the primary school. Centres may offer a snack as well as the Active After-school Communities exercise program.
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KINDERGARTEN PROGRAMS Kindergarten programs provide a world of constructed play that early childhood experts agree develops children’s abilities and helps prepare them for school. By participating in play, art, music and movement and interacting with others, children develop their social and language skills as well as their physical abilities. Kindergarten services typically operate during school terms, with varying opening hours. WAITING LISTS There may be times when there are no vacancies at a child care centre, and waiting lists help determine the next placement. The Australian Government has Priority of Access Guidelines to ensure there is a fair child care system. The system ensures that, where there are vacancies or a waiting list for child care centres, places are allocated to families with the greatest need for child care. These guidelines apply to approved, long day care, family day care, in home care and outside school hours care centres. CHILD CARE REBATE The majority of child care centres are approved child care services. This means that families using the service may be eligible for Child Care Benefit and the Child Care Rebate. Approved services must also show that they are meeting certain quality standards. The Child Care Rebate is not means tested but to get it you must first claim for Child Care Benefit. The rebate is paid to you automatically if you are eligible for Child Care Benefit for approved child care.
FAMILY DAY CARE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SPOUSES A range of initiatives are available through either the Defence Child Care Program (DCCP) or the Department of Employment Education and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) to assist with the initial set-up costs involved in establishing a Family Day Care business. Approved initial set-up costs include obtaining a First Aid certificate, public liability insurance, police checks, car safety certificate and registration fees. For further information or to apply for reimbursement of initial set-up costs, complete the application at www.defence.gov.au/dco/ partners.
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DEFENCE ASSISTANCE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS
DEFENCE CHILD CARE PROGRAM The Defence Child Care Program facilitates access to child care for Defence families in their new posting locality, when the local community is unable to meet demand. The Program facilitates access to centre based, family day care and outside school hours care for Defence members and their families. The Program currently operates a number of Long Day Care Centres and three Out of School Hours facilities which are managed on behalf of Defence under contract by Mission Australia Early Learning Services (MAELS). There is also a child care at Victoria Barracks in Melbourne managed by an independent management committee that offers priority to Defence members. CHILDCARE CENTRE CLOSURES Parents need to be aware that a transitional plan to close childcare centres at RAAF Bases Amberley, Darwin and Williamtown is now underway. Defence says this decision follows an emerging body of international research that suggests children may be more sensitive to noise exposure than adults. The RAAF Base Darwin childcare centre has already closed, and the closures of RAAF Bases Amberley and Williamtown are being managed in consultation with affected base staff and childcare centre operators. Support will be provided to facilitate new childcare arrangements and minimise disruption to the families who are clients of these centres.
SALARY PACKAGING OF CHILD CARE Under the Defence Flexible Remuneration Packaging Scheme, Defence members are able to package their child care fees at employer sponsored child care centres. This includes all Defence Child Care Centres and other eligible Commonwealth Employer Sponsored Child Care Centres. Salary packaging can be arranged between Defence and the Member, where you agree to forego part of your future entitlement to salary or wages, in return for a benefit in the form of child care to the same monetary value of the salary you would receive. The combined total of salary or wages and the benefit must not exceed the total of your normal salary. When you ask Defence to pay for your child care as part of your
salary package, you are choosing to forego all entitlement to Child Care Benefit (CCB) and the Child Care Tax Rebate. To be eligible for CCB, you or your partner must be liable to pay for the child care. If you salary package the cost of child care fees, this means that Defence as the employer is liable for the cost of all child care fees that are paid under salary packaging arrangements, so Defence (not you) has the legal liability to pay the fees. You must choose between either salary packaging OR receiving CCB and the Child Care Tax Rebate. Salary packaging is not beneficial for many families and it is very important that you understand the relative benefits of salary packaging against claiming CCB and the Child Care Tax Rebate.
The Defence Special Needs Support Group Inc was formed as a small group of Defence families were brought together by a common bond – they all had a family member with “special needs”. The families decided to help each other out with information and support, rather than going it alone. The Defence Special Needs Support Group Inc was formed as a small group of Defence families were brought together by a common bond – they all had a family member with “special needs”. The families decided to help each other out with information and support, rather than going it alone. The Defence Special Needs Support Group Inc. provides support, information, assistance and advocacy for all ADF families who have a dependant (child, spouse or other dependant) with special needs. In addition, the Defence Special Needs Support Group also offers the following services. • Posting Plans designed to assist families to locate appropriate services ie therapy, early intervention, support groups, respite and more in their new location. • National Parent-to-Parent Network links special needs families who are posted, to others with similar needs in the new location. • Link Up links adults (usually spouses) with physical or medical special needs. • Leaps N Bounds is a contact support group for those who have depression or other mental health problem. • Grants can assist families to obtain equipment or other particular requirements for the person with special needs. • One of the Group is a program designed to assist children aged 7 – 10 who have social skill difficulties. • Computers 4 Kids assists families to access new or second hand computers. • Stepping Stones Playgroup is a structured playgroup for children with special needs and their siblings. • Home2Hospital assists families where the person with special needs has to spend some time in a hospital far from home. • sibMates assists “at risk” children who have a brother or sister with special needs. It provides them with support via spending time with a volunteer Host Defence Family. • Get Real Teen Group Program – activity based program for special needs teens and their siblings. • Family and Emergency Care Plans – a specialised care plan which can assist in the event of emergencies • Deployment, MWDU Support – support to families whilst the member is deployed or MWDU Find out more at www.dsnsg.org.au
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Defence Lifestyl DEFENCE LIFESTYLE
stay healthy Work, and life generally, can be stressful, with the potential to affect your health and wellbeing. One of the best ways to keep healthy and fend off ill health is to make active living a normal part of your daily life. Whether it’s gardening, walking, swimming, cycling, tennis, taking the stairs, or walking to the corner store, it all adds up to active living. As a minimum you should engage in 30 minutes of moderate activity four days a week. And those 30 minutes can be accumulated in 10-minute segments. A brisk walk for example is ‘moderate’ activity. An active lifestyle will improve your health and your quality of life, boost your sense of self-fulfilment and increase your energy level. Reflect on your own situation and ask yourself: at present, am I active enough to benefit good health and keep my body fit? Yes or No?
If you answered “yes” you get a pat on the back. You are achieving health and fitness benefits. If you answered “No”, you probably live a sedentary lifestyle usually in a sitting position: at your desk, on the phone, in your car, at a computer, watching television or on the couch. If you are part of this group, give serious consideration to changing your lifestyle before it’s too late. There is no time for delay. Sedentary lifestyles increase all causes of mortality; it doubles the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity; and substantially increases the risk of colon cancer, hypertension,
osteoporosis, depression, and anxiety. Scary stuff. Why not take the precaution of becoming active now before you are beset with health problems that will stop you from doing so later in life. Pick an activity that you will enjoy and get started. Walking for example is the favourite activity for 70 per cent of our adult population. Walking is safe, inexpensive and one of the best exercises around. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes and the willpower to get up and go. If you haven’t exercised for some time, start off with small amounts of exercise and consult your doctor before engaging in strenuous exercise.
WALKING FOR GOOD HEALTH Physical activity does not have to be vigorous or done for long periods in order to improve your health. Regular walking can help you lose body fat, maintain a healthy weight, improve your fitness and reduce your risk of developing serious health issues. Walking is low impact, requires minimal equipment, can be done at any time of day and can be performed at your own pace. You can get out and walk without worrying about some of the risks associated with other more vigorous forms of exercise. It’s also a great form of physical activity for people who are overweight, elderly or those who haven’t exercised in a long time. BENEFITS OF WALKING You carry your own body weight when you walk. This is sometimes called ‘weight bearing’ exercise. Some of the benefits include increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness, reduced risk of heart disease and
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stroke, stronger bones and improved balance, increased muscle strength and reduced body fat. WALK FOR 30 MINUTES A DAY Try to walk for at least 30 minutes as briskly as you can most days of the week. ‘Brisk’ means that you can still talk but not sing, and you may be puffing slightly. Try to make walking a routine by walking at the same time each day. Remember, you use the same amount of energy no matter what time of day you walk, so do what is most convenient for you. FOOTWEAR IS IMPORTANT Walking is a low cost and effective form of exercise. However, the wrong type of shoes or walking action can cause foot or shin pain, blisters and injuries to soft tissue. Make sure your shoes are comfortable, with appropriate heel and arch supports. Take light, easy steps and make sure your heel touches down before your toes.
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NATIONAL ADF FAMILY HEALTH PROGRAM The National ADF Family Health Program provides for free basic healthcare to dependants of ADF members. Dependants of permanent ADF members and dependants of Reservists on continuous full time Service are eligible to register for the Program, which has been implemented to cover some of the gap expenses of family visits to a general practitioner or allied health professional. For families who already have private health insurance, the Program benefits can be used in addition to your private health insurance benefits. $400 per family member per financial year will be available to use towards allied health services such as optometry, dental and physio. This can also be transferred between family members. The services accessed are considered a fringe benefit. All services must be listed under a Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Item Number to be eligible for a refund. To register for the Program the ADF member must complete WebForm AD858-1 ADF Family Health which can be found at: www.defence.gov.au/health/ Dependant_Healthcare/i-healthcare.htm
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Defence Lifestyl DEFENCE LIFESTYLE
HEALTHY BODY + HEALTHY MIND
MAKE THE MOST OF LIFE
stay happy
Everyone wants to be happy but achieving that personal ambition is not as easy as just wanting it to happen. Pressures in life impact on our feelings of wellbeing, sometimes considerably, leading potentially to severe emotional problems. In the Defence family context, it seems that frequent transfers, as is the case in any military organization, affect a family’s feelings of wellbeing and happiness. But looking deeper reveals that the overriding factor in achieving positive family outcomes is the family’s perception of the move and how well the family has integrated in the new location. The family’s sense of belonging and successful integration into the new community has been found to be a strong predictor of positive family outcomes. A number of studies show that children of military couples actually enjoy a number of benefits from moving around, especially in the development of social skills and confidence in different situations – along with a broader education experience.
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For children, a sense of wellbeing and happiness in the new location is very much dependent upon the parents’ behaviour and perception of what’s going on. A number of programs exist to help people improve their situation. For example, some hospitals run programs developed for the Department of Veterans Affairs, aimed at people who perceive that their life is not all they want it to be. Other challenges relate to ‘where to go from here’ after being in an institution such as the Defence Forces for a long time, which can lead to a quite stressful situation. However, the problem with emotional stress is that it doesn’t really go away, and it’s better to work through those issues with a professional counsellor.
The World Health Organisation defines good health as ‘a complete state of physical, mental and social wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’. Accordingly, Defence acknowledges that the mental and social areas of our lives are just as important as our physical bodies. The Australian Defence Force Mental Health Strategy seeks to reinforce the concept of ‘well being’ in life for members and their families. It recognises that mental health is not just related to diagnosable mental disorders, but covers a broad range of lifestyle, mental wellbeing and job performance factors. The strategy has a primary focus on prevention and evidence-based treatment to maximise retention and enhance the quality of life for Defence personnel. This strategy involves an educational campaign for ADF personnel and early intervention and preventative strategies for the ADF. It promotes programs that improve self-esteem, encourage a positive outlook and a feeling of acceptance and belonging. For further information visit the ADF Mental Health Strategy website, which contains various resources, fact sheets and mental health contacts. For confidential advice, call the All Hours Support Line: 1800 628 036 (FREECALL within Australia) defence.gov.au/health
HEALTH IS US + YOU Whether you are a member of the Defence Forces or a relative of someone who is, Navy Health here to serve you. Navy Health has provided great value, premium health cover to members of the Defence Force community since 1955. Along the way, we’ve learnt a thing or two about insurance, about value – and about serving the people who serve us all. Better value + Better service. Health insurance is pretty simple really. What matters is affordable premiums, great benefits, and a friendly face on hand to answer your questions. It’s what we pride ourselves on. Contractor + Employees. If you have ever been employed by a company who was contracted by the ADF or Department of Defence, you (and all of your immediate family) are eligible to join! Smaller premiums + Bigger smiles. The best part is, Navy Health isn’t just for Navy personnel – we insure all Defence Force members (including those in the Army and Air Force) and their families, whether they’re currently serving or not. And since we’re a member-driven, notfor-profit, registered private health insurer, we can offer you affordable prices. Serving members + Lower premiums. As an acknowledgement of their commitment and sacrifice, a 10% reduction on payable premiums is offered to serving ADF members when covering their families.
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HEALTH COVER
There are two types of private health insurance: hospital policies cover you when you go to hospital, while general treatment policies (sometimes known as ancillary or extras) cover you for ancillary treatment (e.g. dental, physiotherapy). Most health funds offer combined policies that provide a packaged cover for both hospital and general treatment services, or you can buy separate hospital and general treatment policies to ‘mix and match’. If you’re purchasing cover for the first time or upgrading your plan, you need to serve a waiting period before you can claim your benefits. During the waiting period, you don’t receive any benefits for certain treatments or you receive lower benefits for a period of time. You should also take note of what is and isn’t covered on your policy - not all policies are comprehensive. Depending on your level of cover, you may not be fully covered against all costs associated with your treatment and have to pay some out-of-pocket expenses. You should review your cover from time to time to ensure it still meets your healthcare needs. If the premium has become a concern for you, there are a number of ways you may be able to manage your policy and lower costs. If you already have private health insurance, you can also consider moving to a different fund.
how it works
HOSPITAL COVER Hospital policies help cover the cost of in-hospital treatment by your doctor and hospital costs such as accommodation and theatre fees. Generally, any medical services listed under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) can be covered on some form of private hospital insurance. Some services not listed on the MBS, such as elective cosmetic surgery or laser eye surgery, are only covered by private hospital insurance to a limited extent. Funds generally offer several different policies across these categories, combined with different levels of excess or co-payments. An excess is amount that you agree to pay towards the cost of hospital treatment, in exchange for lower premiums.
GENERAL TREATMENT COVER General treatment policies (also known as ancillary or extras cover) provide benefits for ancillary services - for example, physiotherapy, dental and optical treatment. General treatment policies may be offered separately or combined with hospital cover. Many health funds offer packaged policies that provide cover for both hospital and general treatment services. Some funds have prepackaged policies, while others allow you to mix and match hospital and general treatment options. For example, you may be able to select a basic hospital cover and a comprehensive general treatment policy to create your own combined package.
A health fund that’s different Unlimited general dental + Up to $2,000 major dental + Full ambulance cover Navy + Army + Air Force + Family 10% discount for serving families and active reservists. Conditions apply.
navyhealth.com.au 1300 306 289
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Who are we and what do we stand for? Standard individual Tax Return $99 when you quote this discount number *APS1905
We are an accounting, taxation, advisory and wealth creation business, so we look after the tax affairs of everyone from individuals, companies, trusts and self-managed super funds, including how best to structure your financial affairs. At APS Tax, Accounting & Business Services we are so much more than that. We work with clients to have your tax returns and financial statements completed each year - we schedule your work, quote up front, guarantee you a completion date and hold an AGM with you to talk about how you and your business could perform better. We know you need more than just tax returns. That’s because we have worked with hundreds of businesses and individuals over the years, so we know what it takes to build and grow a great business. We specialise in working with businesses to improve their financial position and to create a successful, profitable business, that is sustainable into the future and to make your money really work for you. If you would like to know more we can catch up virtually or in person. That is really what APS Tax, Accounting & Business Services stands for - you, your business and your growth. Contact Richard Ferraro at APS Tax, Accounting & Business Services on 1300 131 809 or (03) 9322 2000 and you will notice the difference.
*Available to NEW customers for their first tax return. 26 DefenceLife This is a 50% discount off our normal tax return fee of $198.
You can use the power of a cooperative and at not for profit prices. Look at the products and services you can access. The APS Benefits group can assist you NOW. APS Tax & Accounting Richard Ferraro at APS Tax, Accounting and Business Services is an experienced CPA taxation accountant. Whether it is setting up a business, managing your superannuation fund or just obtaining quality service, Richard can help you. APS Financial Planning Timothy Foster provides access to advice and information on the important financial decisions we all face, whether it be superannuation, investments, pre and post retirement planning, life insurance, income protection, gearing, disability and trauma insurance, managed funds or savings plans. Our lunchtime staff seminars are so popular. Let us assist you in understanding those financial decisions you need to make. APS Mortgage Broking Sam Athans treats every mortgage as if it were his own. He has access to 20 mortgage lenders and has over 40 years’ experience in banking. Let us do the leg work for you. APS Insurance (General Insurance Broking) Danielle Rowe heads our insurance broking team and is a salaried employee of APS Benefits. With over 15 years’ experience in the industry, Danielle has access to insurance products that include home and contents, motor vehicle, boat/caravan, landlord and public liability. The next time you receive your insurance renewal notice or want insurance for the first time, call Danielle on 1300 131 809. APS Personal, Property & Special Purpose Loans The APS Benefits can provide personal, property, and special purpose loans. You can apply for a personal loan online at www.apsbs.com.au. APS Funeral Cover. Adult & Child Cover Available. APS Benefits Membership Coordinator Jesse Clarke can assist members gain immediate funeral cover up to $20,000 for adults and $7,000 for dependent children (aged 2 to 15 next birthday). Do you have cover in the greatest time of need? Call us on 1300 131 809. APS Savings & investments APS Savings Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of APS Benefits and offers a Fixed Term Investment product. Ask Sam Athans about the interest rate on offer and you will be pleasantly suprised. The term can be 6 months, 12 months or 24 months. Take advantage of a 31 Day Notice of Withdrawal savings account and plan for that future expense. Call us on 1300 131 809. APS Wills, Estates & General Legal Service Phil Lambourne from APS Wills & Estates has over 25 years experience as a lawyer. Phil can help you with wills, powers of attorney, probate, estate administration, conveyancing and general legal matters. Is your will up-to-date? Have you reviewed your will recently? It affects more than just you! APS Benevolent Foundation Recently launched, the Foundation is a registered charity and a deductible gift recipient. Donations above $2 are tax deductible. The Foundation will enable the Society to expand our level of benevolence. Need to know more? Call us on 1300 131 809. Further to this, APS is owned by its members, so any profits are channelled back to members. Help spread the word by introducing new members and APS will send you, your nominated charity or your staff social club $50 for each new member you nominate. For more information call us on 1300 131 809 or visit www.apsbs.com.au
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
Brisbane
South east Queensland is one of the most popular Defence posting destinations because of the lifestyle, weather and variety in employment opportunities for Defence personnel and families. These families tend to live in three main areas: Brisbane, Ipswich and the Darling Downs.
Brisbane is the capital and most populous city in the Australian state of Queensland and the third most populous city in Australia. Brisbane’s metropolitan area has a population of 2.5 million. The Brisbane central business district stands on the original European settlement and is situated inside a bend of the Brisbane River, about 15 kilometres from its mouth at Moreton Bay. The metropolitan area extends in all directions along the floodplain of the Brisbane River valley between Moreton Bay and the Great Dividing Range. The metropolitan area sprawls across several of Australia’s most populous local government areas (LGA), including the City of Brisbane, which is by far the most populous
LGA in the nation. The demonym of Brisbane is Brisbanite. One of the oldest cities in Australia, Brisbane was founded upon the ancient homelands of the Turrbal and Jagera peoples. Named after the Brisbane River on which it is located, which in turn was named after Scotsman Sir Thomas Brisbane, the Governor of New South Wales from 1821 to 1825. The area was chosen as a place for secondary offenders from the Sydney Colony. A penal settlement was founded in 1824 at Redcliffe, north of the central business district. That settlement was soon abandoned and moved to North Quay in 1825, and opened to free settlement in 1842.
The city was marred by Aboriginal conflict between 1843-1855, and development was partly setback by the Great Fire of Brisbane, and the Great Brisbane Flood. Brisbane was chosen as the capital when Queensland was proclaimed a separate colony from New South Wales in 1859. During World War II, Brisbane played a central role in the Allied campaign and served as the South West Pacific headquarters for General Douglas MacArthur. Today, Brisbane is well known for its distinct Queenslander architecture which forms much of the city’s built heritage. It is a popular tourist destination, serving as a gateway for visitors to the state of Queensland.
CULTURAL PRECINCT The Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) houses pieces of modern art from within and outside Australia. GOMA is the largest modern art gallery in Australia. Its size enables the gallery to exhibit particularly large shows — the Andy Warhol exhibition being the largest survey of his work in Australia. GOMA also boasts Australia’s largest purpose-built Cinémathèque. The Gallery of Modern Art is located next to the State Library. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), located at South Bank, consists of the Lyric Theatre, a Concert Hall, Cremorne Theatre and the Playhouse Theatre and is home to the Queensland Ballet, Opera Queensland, Queensland Theatre Company, and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
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The Queensland Conservatorium, in which professional companies and Conservatorium students stage performances, is located within the South Bank Parklands. The Brisbane Powerhouse in New Farm and the Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts in Fortitude Valley feature feature exhibitions and festivals of visual art, music and dance. Brisbane is also home to numerous small theatres.The oldest is the Brisbane Arts Theatre, Founded in 1936. The La Boite Theatre Company now performs at the Roundhouse Theatre at Kelvin Grove. Other theatres in the city include the Twelfth Night Theatre at Bowen Hills, the Metro Arts Theatre in Edward Street, and the Queensland Theatre Company’s Bille Brown Studio in West End.
CITY VIBE THE CULTURAL PRECINCT Located just across the river from the Brisbane CBD, Southbank is the most popular destination for visitors and locals to enjoy South Bank’s sandy beach, the open grassy picnic spots, the shops and dozens of eating places. There are cinemas, free live entertainment and many festivals and fireworks throughout the year. STORY BRIDGE Named after John Douglas Story, Brisbane’s Story Bridge links the inner city suburbs of Fortitude Valley and Kangaroo Point. Have a picnic or BBQ under the bridge at Captain Burke Park or eat out at the historic Story Bridge Hotel. For the more adventurous, take a climb over the bridge itself with Story Bridge Adventure Climb. GRAB A CITYCAT Even locals love to get out on the Brisbane River and it’s so easy and cheap to do with a journey on the CityCat. Take a cruise up and down the river, stopping wherever you like along the way – South Bank, University of Queensland, New Farm. The CityCats glide over the water and you’ll see multi-milliondollar houses, parks and the city centre. Travel under the Story Bridge and get a whole new perspective. MT COOT-THA LOOKOUT Even if you only have an hour or so to spare,
take the drive up to the top of Mt Coot-tha to get a view of the whole of Brisbane city. You’ll see the curves of the river, the lines of the freeway, the skyline of the CBD. On a clear day there are views south-west to the distant ranges and east towards Moreton Bay. There’s a cafe, restaurant and lookout at the top.
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
SUMMER
Schools
Summer Schools are specifically designed for Years 5, 6 & 7 students who have been identified through NAPLAN (National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy) as requiring additional help in the areas of literacy and numeracy. Summer Schools do not replace the existing support that your child receives at their school. Rather, this is an opportunity for your child to receive additional assistance within an enjoyable learning environment. At Summer Schools, students are taught to understand the relationship between the language of chance and probability, and to justify their decision-making processes by using this knowledge. Parents are encouraged to support their children’s learning. There are many things you can do to help your child practises their reading skills including reading a range of texts, discussing how language is used, asking your child to describe people, places or objects, and engaging in word building exercises. “I have never seen my daughter so excited about doing school work. All she does is talk about what she has learned each day. Thank you for this opportunity.” (Summer Schools parent feedback). “Summer Schools was great. I hope I get to go again next time.” (student feedbank).
School
LEAVING AGE All students Australia-wide must complete Year 10 of study. After Year 10 and until they turn 17, students must be either in school full-time, in approved education or training such as TAFE, traineeship or apprenticeship, or in fulltime paid employment.
The minimum school leaving age has been raised to age 17 to ensure school leavers have the opportunity to maximise their preparation for further education, training, employment or a combination of these. Australian and international research demonstrates that people with higher levels of schooling are more likely to make a successful transition to further education, training, or work. The research also demonstrates that early school leavers are two and a half times more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages and have poorer quality of life outcomes; and that those who do not leave school early generally enjoy enhanced life choices and better economic and social outcomes. Exemptions will only be granted where the school principal considers that the student is a suitable candidate to complete his or her education through an apprenticeship or traineeship, that the student has written permission from his / her parents for this to occur. The employer also needs to agree to notify the Department of Education and Training in writing through the school principal if the apprenticeship or traineeship is abandoned or cancelled before the student turns 17.
Mt Maria College is a Catholic Co-educational College in the Marist Tradition with 950 students in Years 7-12, located at Mitchelton. Our new campus provides a welcoming environment where each individual has the opportunity to develop their full potential in preparation for life and work in the real world.
Faith-based lifelong learning in a Marist Christian community Excellent range of academic and vocational pathways Nurturing future community leaders through academic, vocational and pastoral programs.
Request an Enrolment Pack TODAY
Give your child a fee-free Head Start usq.edu.au/headstart CRICOS QLD 00244B NSW 02225M TEQSA PRV12081
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BE SAFE AT
Schoolies
Schoolies Week should be a time to let your hair down after an intense final year of high school, spend time with your friends and have some fun, and it should be safe. With that in mind, here are some tips on how you can stay safe at Schoolies Week: 1. Stay with your mates. Your friends are more than just your party buddies – they’re also your support group. If you see one of your friends in trouble, see if you can help them out. 2. Trust your instincts. You have them for a reason. If you ever feel like you’re not in control or you don’t feel safe, there’s a good chance you’re not. Get out of the situation as soon as you can. 3. Don’t be Sir-Mix-A-Lot. Alcohol on its own can be enough to impair your judgement but mixing alcohol and energy drinks can be a much worse combination. 4. Don’t Break Bad. Using drugs can lead to heart palpitations, nausea, hallucinations, paranoia, violent behaviour and in severe cases, heart attack and kidney and liver failure. 5. Slip, slop, slap. Skin cancer is one of Australia’s biggest killers, so always make sure you apply sunscreen regularly and wear hats, sunnies and appropriate clothing when outside. 6. Don’t believe you can fly. No matter how good you are, you can’t. Injuries sustained from falls are the second most common reason young adults find themselves in hospital rooftops. 7. Instagram is not your friend. Remember that embarrassing / damaging or even Photoshopped images can spread like wildfire over social media and the web and can have long-lasting effects. BEYOND SCHOOL In Australia, higher education is the sector that offers university-level education, at degree level and above. The Commonwealth, state and territory governments share responsibility for the sector. Higher education courses are those leading to the award of an associate degree, bachelors degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, masters degree or doctoral degree. Some courses leading to the award of a diploma may also be accredited as higher education courses. School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships provide a pathway for students to successfully transition from school to work. The apprenticeships and traineeships aim to provide students with an increased ability to perform in the workplace, leading to increased career choices and opportunities to transition from school to full-time apprenticeships, employment or further education and training. The Vocational Education in Schools (VETiS) Program gives students the opportunity to try a profession while still at school. By participating in VETis students learn about the skills and the requirements of a particular job at school or through a local registered training provider, and can complete a number of work placements during the year.
Mitchelton State High School
Schooling a
Future Generation
Mitchelton State High School succesfully blends excellence in academic performance, creative arts and sports. Situated close to Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera, we are a small school where every student’s learning experience is important. Our Defence Transition Mentor is available to help support our ADF Families and students. For more information or to organise a school tour, please call our office on 3550 1111 or email admin@mitchelshs.eq.edu.au Participation | Accountability | Respect
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
NATIONAL assessment PROGRAM (NAPLAN) Students Australia-wide in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit for the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) test in May. NAPLAN tests assess student knowledge and skill in numeracy, reading, writing, spelling, punctuation and grammar. The results of the tests provide information for students, parents, teachers and principals about student achievement which can be used to inform teaching and learning programs. The tests provide point-in-time information regarding student progress across Australia in literacy and numeracy and are intended to complement teacher judgement and the wide range of formal and informal testing programs
that are already used in schools. Test results are not intended to be used in isolation from other school-based assessment programs. Schools should ensure that, along with whole-school planning for delivery of the VELS curriculum, a variety of assessment tasks is used to assess student learning. All students are encouraged to take part in the NAPLAN tests. Special provisions are available to meet the needs of individual students and children with special needs. Parents or carers of students who sit for the
NAPLAN tests will receive a written report of their child’s achievement in September. The student report will show each child’s results in the key areas of reading, writing, language conventions and numeracy. The report also shows the national average, the range of results for the middle 60 per cent of students nationally, and the particular school’s average for each test. That means parents will be able to clearly see how your child compares with other students in the same year of schooling.
Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School “a community to believe in”
Students, staff and parents enjoy a welcoming, vibrant and dynamic learning community at Our Lady of the Assumption at Enoggera. Its unique character is shaped by:
• Respect and Responsibility • Support for ADF students and families • Exceptional retention rates for our upper primary students
• Technology integrated throughout curriculum (Prep-year 6) • Easy access to up-to-date technology • A creative curriculum • A caring community/ partnership for success
FOR MORE INFORMATION PHONE 073355 2388
E penoggera@bne.catholic.edu.au W www.olaenoggera.qld.edu.au 9 Hurdcotte Street, Enoggera Qld 4051
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Blackwood Street Mitchelton THE PLACE TO MEET
LIFE’S GOOD IN BLACKWOOD STREET MITCHELTON For an ideal blend of urban and country, Mitchelton represents increasingly rare affordability in a friendly village setting. Leafy streets and a mountainous bushland backdrop feature across the suburb with some homes afforded sought after cityscape views. Commonly ranked in Brisbane’s top 10 suburbs on Homely.com.au and home to a high percentage of families and professionals, Mitchelton is progressively evolving into a high demand suburb. Just 8km from the CBD’s daily hustle yet still an easy and often fast commute by various means into the city, a work life balance is not hard to find. A fast emerging alfresco dining scene in the Blackwood St precinct is attracting new demographics to the area by emulating the vibrant atmosphere of such village settings as Wilston or Bulimba. Residents are well looked after by public transport routes, large arterials and impeccable cycle ways. Serviced by the Ferny Grove train line, services are as frequent as every 7-8mins and feature 2 stations within the suburb. Bus routes provide flexible transport options across the city and to the nearby Enoggera Military Camp with regular services on offer. For the budding outdoor enthusiasts or eco-savvy, the Kedron Brook Bikeway starts in Mitchelton and offers 13km of continuous, smooth cycle path and connects directly to several other major North Side bikeways. An established regional service hub, Mitchelton boasts a plethora of retail options, sporting and community facilities and parklands.
Swiss cuisine with a twist 15% OFF FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL TUE-FRI Open Tuesday - Sunday for Coffee, Brunch & Dinner 47 Blackwood Street, Mitchelton P 3355 9627 W www.desalpes.com.au WHERE GREAT FOOD IS JUST THE BEGINNING
Shop 9/40 Blackwood Street, Mitchelton QLD 4053
Ph: (07) 3354 4533 www.tavernerloungeanddining.com.au
Modern Australian Cuisine
Welcome to the Blackwood Street Dining Precinct.
We also offer a standard 10% discount upon presentation of ID 10% Discount cannot be used in conjunction with this voucher
GREAT RANGE GOURMET CUISINE (500 LINES) GLUTEN FREE QUICK SERVICE
OP 7 DAEYNS 6 .30AM-8
PHONE 3855 5338 24 Blackwood Street Mitchelton Email: mitcheltonfood@bigpond.com
PM
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
GETTING SET FOR PREP
EDUCATION ACROSS QUEENSLAND
Education Queensland delivers highquality and accessible public education to around 70 per cent of all Queensland school students through the state schooling system. The Department is responsible for almost 1300 schools staffed by more than 36,000 teachers and attended by almost 480,000 students. All state schools are coeducational. The school year usually runs from late January to mid December. It is divided into two semesters with two terms in each, and vacation breaks for Easter, winter, spring and summer. Parents are free to send their children to the school of their choice, depending on available places. Most schools hold classes from 9 am to 3 pm Monday to Friday, except for public and school holidays and student-free days. PREPARATORY YEAR Children are able to attend a noncompulsory, full-time Preparatory year of schooling. Children must be aged five by 30 June in the year they enrol. PRIMARY Children must be aged six by 30 June in the year they enrol in Year 1 in Queensland. For a child entering Year 1, schools require proof of the child’s date of birth, such as a birth certificate, passport or visa. SECONDARY Students are eligible to enter the first year of Queensland secondary schooling, Year 7, after completing six years of primary education.
Queensland’s Preparatory Year gives all young Queenslanders the very best start to school by helping them make a smooth transition to Year 1 and sets them on the path to lifelong learning. Children must be aged five by 30 June in the year they enrol for Prep. Parents can enrol their child in the Preparatory Year by contacting the school directly. Parents who are concerned their child is not ready to start Prep at that time can choose to start their child a year later - the year they become of compulsory school age (6 years and 6 months). The Preparatory Year will provide the foundation your child needs to succeed at school by developing a positive approach to learning, independence and confidence, thinking and problem-solving skills, language skills, early literacy and numeracy, physical abilities, including gross and fine motor skills. Prep is integrated fully into the rest of the school, and classrooms and other facilities are located on the same grounds as the primary school. This allows children to feel part of the broader school community and will help with their transition to Year 1. Prep classrooms generally consist of an open space for group and individual activities with a carpeted area for storytelling and singing. Prep
classes will comprise up to 25 students. Your child may need to wear a school uniform, but this is up to individual schools. What will your child do in Prep? A key feature of Prep is that it makes connections between children’s prior experiences at home, kindy or childcare and what they do at school. In Prep your child will be actively involved in learning and will have opportunities to learn in many different ways for example through investigation and play. Children are encouraged to develop independence and personal organisational skills. Working with other children and adults is also an important life skill that is part of the Prep program. Children will be: • using blocks and manipulative equipment and creating collages to develop early mathematical concepts and skills • drawing and painting to encourage oral language, reading and writing skills • initiating and participating in dramatic play to build an understanding of the world around them • playing and investigating independently, in pairs, small groups and as a whole class • participating in outdoor activities • participating in music and language experiences.
A welcoming Prep - Year 12 community • Specialised learning areas for Hospitality, Industrial Design, Visual Arts, Dance & Drama, Music, HPE and Japanese • Excellent academic and vocational results • 1:1 ICLT program for our secondary students • A multi-level Resource Centre, Hospitality Trade Training Centre, Wellbeing & Fitness facility, large sporting ovals • Supportive of the unique needs of Defence families
St Augustines Drive, Augustine Heights ph 3814 8300 | psspringfield@bne.catholic.edu 34
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www.stac.qld.edu.au
EARLY PHASE OF LEARNING
Transition
Transition is a term to describe movement through the different stages in your child’s education. This includes moving from home to early childhood education, from Pre-primary to Year 1, from primary to secondary school and finally onto further study, work or training. There are other recognised periods of transition including moving from one school to another or moving between the years of secondary school such as from Yr 10 to Yr 11. All of these periods of transition involve a certain level of emotional and practical adjustment for you, your child and your family and may result in your child experiencing some uncertainty and anxiety. Depending on the transition, your child may have to deal with issues such as separation from you or siblings (when they start school), adjust to learning in a structured environment (when they progress to Year 1) and learning to adjust to a number of different teachers (when they go to
secondary school). Being prepared will make the transition easier on your child. Know the transport options, have uniforms organised and get stationery and books early so that you have time to label everything and your child can get comfortable with any new equipment. Get your child comfortable with the new school environment. Their school may have organised an orientation program, but if they haven’t, make an appointment with the school for you and your child to visit. Make sure your child knows where they can store their belongings, eat their lunch and where the toilets are. Understand that your child may experience peer pressure, fear of failure or be very keen to follow a dream. Try to allow your child to become part of the decision-making process in his or her school environment.
The Early Phase of Learning, Prep to Year 3, introduces children to the world of formal education. Education Queensland aims to provide positive experiences that engage young minds and promote positive dispositions to lifelong learning. State primary schools offer a full-time, noncompulsory Preparatory Year of education before Year 1. Children must turn five by 30 June in the year they begin the Preparatory Year. The Preparatory Year is not compulsory. Parents may choose to keep their children at home or to send them to an alternative early childhood education and care service. Children must be six by 30 June in the year they enrol in Year 1. LITERACY AND NUMERACY Education Queensland is committed to ensuring that all students develop a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy in the early years as a basis for progress in all future learning. As they progress through schooling, students should develop effective literacy and numeracy skills to support successful participation in the post-school years in training, work, or further study. In order to ensure that all learners reach their potential in literacy and numeracy, schools have programs to monitor the performance of those at risk of falling behind and to provide targeted support. All students are monitored throughout Years 1 to 3 and those not making adequate progress by the middle of Year 2 receive additional classroom support.
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
MIDDLE PHASE OF LEARNING
Years 4 to 9 spans traditional primary and secondary schooling and are a time of great physical, social, emotional and intellectual change for young people. Students in the Middle Phase of Learning have distinctive and diverse needs which stem from the very significant developmental changes in this period, as well as from a broad range of individual students’ life circumstances, interests, skills and talents. The Middle Phase of Learning typically occurs across Years 4-9 and falls into two distinct stages. The first stage involves transition from the early foundational years. Students need to consolidate the foundations of literacy and numeracy that they gained in the early phase of learning. For many students this is a time of expanding curiosity and eager exploration of a broader range of learning experiences. For others, the challenges are daunting, their interest wanes and progress slows. The second stage is characterised by the demands of intense physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of early adolescence. There is considerable diversity in how and when students move through this stage and in the impact on their attitude to and success in learning. Increasing literacy and numeracy skills and knowledge are the essential ingredients for learning in every subject and for effective communication and participation in adult life. It is essential to maintain students’ interest and provide opportunities for them to “catch up” and make fresh starts when progress slows if they are to be ready for the senior phase of learning. Students in the Middle Phase of Learning are going through an unmatched period of cognitive, physical, social and emotional change and growth. They begin to think more broadly about issues beyond the home and family, and they want to engage in authentic, meaningful learning.
Leadership, effective teaching and flexible and responsive approaches help ensure young people stay enthusiastic and engaged in learning. To assist this, class sizes have been reduced in Years 4 to 10 from 30 to 28 students, giving Queensland the smallest class size targets in the middle years of schooling.
IMMACULATE HEART CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL
• Spacious grounds • Family friendly community • Up-to-date and forward thinking facilities planning and use of technology • Professional and approachable staff • Specialist music and P.E. teachers • Year 6 leadership opportunities • Bi-annual trip to Canberra for Year 5/6 • Outside School Hours Care • Choral Eisteddfods and Dancefever
Immaculate Heart Catholic Primary School
24 Old Toowoomba Road, One Mile Qld 4305 Ph 07 3812 1077 Web www.immac-heart.qld.edu.au 36
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Q
Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
Ipswich Ipswich is centrally located in the booming south east Queensland region of Australia. To the east is the capital city Brisbane, and to the west are the rural and agricultural areas of the Brisbane, Lockyer and Fassifern Valleys. Ipswich has a population of more than190,000 people, and growing. The city is ideally positioned on the national road network - 30 minutes drive from Brisbane, an hours drive from the Gold Coast and 60 minutes drive from domestic and international air and sea ports. Ipswich comprises an area of 1090 square kms and has a population of more than190,000 people. Ipswich enjoys a subtropical climate and is a safe, friendly and multicultural city. Residents come from 115 different ethnic backgrounds, speaking 84 languages. As Queensland’s oldest provincial city, Ipswich has a rich history. It is renowned for its architectural, natural and cultural heritage. Ipswich proudly preserves and still operates from many of its historical buildings and homes, with more than 6000 heritage-listed sites. Ipswich also has a range of charming townships within the western rural areas of the city, each with its own legitimate claims of historical significance. Ipswich is an exciting place to live, work, invest and visit. Education plays an important role in the local economy with two universities and a wide choice of private and state government schools. Ipswich offers all the modern facilities and attractions of a progressive city. Attractions include the Ipswich Art Gallery, the Workshops Rail
Museum, steam trains, more than 500 parks, wineries, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and shopping centres. If getting a birds eye view of the Ipswich region is something you fancy you can take a hot air balloon ride or a helicopter tour. Ipswich hosts regular national and local festivals and events such as the, Ipswich Cup - the city’s annual major horse racing carnival, drag racing’s finest at the Winternationals at Willowbank Raceway, V8 supercars at Queensland Raceway, Ipswich Festival and the Ipswich Show. Ipswich is alive and leading the way in tourism, sport, industry, technology, education and residential development. The city combines an alluring blend of heritage charm, metropolitan sophistication and expansive green spaces. Early colonial buildings stand proud in the city centre, lovingly restored Queenslanders perch on hills and quaint townships dot the surrounding countryside, while new buildings such as the ICON1 tower have changed the city’s skyline. Now underway is a massive CBD redevelopment program that aims to open the central business district to the river and breathe new life into what is the centre of culture and business in the city.
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
WELCOME FROM IPSWICH MAYOR PAUL PISASALE
On behalf of all residents I extend a warm welcome to new arrivals at RAAF Base Amberley. The city of Ipswich is forging ahead with the current population of 190,000 expected to increase to 435,000 by 2031. Ipswich has much to offer new families and is rightly famous for many things, from a rich heritage to an extraordinary history of railway and mining, but none as important as our well known relationship with RAAF Base Amberley. The men and women who serve at RAAF Amberley are a part of Ipswich’s thriving community. We thank all defence personnel for their service and sacrifice. We encourage new arrivals to get to know their new home city and enjoy all the fantastic facilities Ipswich has to offer. Ipswich is a great location for families with so much to see and do. Our fabulous parks and recreation areas have first rate attractions such as the zero-depth water play area at River Heart Parklands, the free Ipswich Nature Centre in Queens Park and the world-class Orion Lagoon at Springfield Central. Our vibrant cultural heart means fine food and entertainment is never far away. Ipswich Art Gallery is one of the most visited regional galleries in Australia with exciting exhibitions featured throughout the year, including hands on activities at the Children’s Gallery. Ipswich Civic Centre is also a great choice for entertainment with a variety of local, national and international shows throughout the year. Council’s website www.ipswich.qld.gov.au and Discover Ipswich www.discoveripswich.com.au are great places to learn more about what’s on around the region. Welcome to the Ipswich family and we look forward to enjoying your company soon and hope you will embrace the city as your own.
Mayor Paul Pisasale CITY OF IPSWICH
THE QUEST FOR MOBILITY SOLVING RELOCATION STRESS THROUGH ACCOMMODATION EXCELLENCE
Coordinating travel arrangements for employees is always stressful; however relocating defence personnel presents additional and unique challenges. Established 27 years ago, Quest Apartment Hotels is the largest and fastest growing apartment hotel operator in Australasia. Catering for the extended-stay traveller, Quest has more than 150 properties located across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. With an established team of relocation experts who understand the complexities of defence relocations, Quest is well equipped to assist with both individual and large-scale staff relocations. Quest CEO, Zed Sanjana explained why Quest is so perfectly suited to the mobility market, providing piece of mind with a single accommodation solution. “The Defence industry can rely on Quest to look after its personnel with flexible and secure accommodation options backed by the experience and resources of an established network. Quest conducts an extensive location analysis prior to commencing any property development ensuring we build where people need to be,” he explained. “People stay with us because they want more than just a room, they want the comforts of home. Our apartments offer guests the ability to cook their own meals, do their own laundry, and the space to truly spread out and relax, while simply having some privacy.” “Quest Franchisees are renowned for really getting to know their guests, offering local knowledge and advice to meet each individual need. This personal touch makes a huge difference for extended-stay ed guests, especially with families that are settling in to new environments,” cce Su he concluded. e iev Townsville, Metalicclose Gold 872 Quest boasts locations to military bases in Wodonga, Ach r ve Ipswich, Wagga Wagga, Canberra, Singleton and Newcastle, with sco DiLiverpool, the additions of recently opened properties in Nowra and Rockingham. The combination of geographic reach and stylish, spacious design ensures defence force personnel can depend on Quest forState a uniform, College P-12 high standard of accommodation for transient staff across Australasia. •
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Woodcrest
Woodcrest State College Springfield your quality local school PMS 1375
Taking enrolments now for 2016 Woodcrest State College is unique in the Brisbane West and Springfield area • Seamless Prep to Year 12 schooling on the one campus • Academic Challenge and Enrichment programs • Evidence based teaching practices that result in the best outcomes for all students • A values centred approach to the wellbeing of students at all stages of their development • Extensive resources and facilities, including wireless internet technologies, gymnasiums, laboratories, playing fields, performing and practical arts PMSclassrooms 1235 • Onsite Kindergarten and Trade Training Centre • Established Netball, Volleyball and Basketball Academy programs with our AFL Excellence Program commencing in 2016
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Want to know more? t: 07 3280 2444 w: www.woodcrestsc.eq.edu.au
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e: office@woodcrestsc.eq.edu.au
WE CHOOSE TO MAKE IT FEEL LIKE HOME When you work in the defence force, relocation is part of the job. My family choose to stay together and with Quest we can really make it feel like home. With over 150 properties, I know that wherever my career takes me, Quest will be there with the service and facilities to look after my family. CHOOSE YOUR DESTINY.
Visit questapartments.com.au or call 1800 334 033 DefenceLife 39
Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
Springfield Located between Brisbane and Ipswich, Greater Springfield has become one of Australia’s fastest growing master-planned cities. With the included areas of Springfield, Springfield Lakes, Brookwater and Augustine Heights , this new city is bringing together the very best in business, ICT, education, health, retail and entertainment to one central location. The current population of Greater Springfield is more than 50,000 with an estimated population of 100,000+ by 2030. Springfield is connected to Brisbane and the Ipswich CBD by the Centenary Motorway, and the Springfield Rail Line enables passengers
to commute to Brisbane, Ipswich or the Gold Coast with ease. At the heart of the city is Springfield Central Parklands, the perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle, featuring bike and walking trails, picnic spots, boardwalks, and kids play areas. Visit Orion Town Centre for great shopping, a wide selection of specialty stores, and plenty of spots to eat and relax. . Education City, which includes USQ Springfield, Bremer TAFE, St Peters Lutheran
College and a number of other providors, provides a community environment which has been specifically designed to meet the needs of students from Australia and around the world. Added this year is Australian headquarters of the GE corporation and the Mater Private Hospital. Many Defence families have made their home in Springfield, with just a short and easy commute of just 20 minutes to RAAF Base Amberley.
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1 Tournament Drive, Brookwater 07 3814 5500 events@brookwatergolf.com brookwaterglasshouse.com.au 40
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Get Hitched in the Glasshouse
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Save the date!
CMC ROCKS CMC Rocks, the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest country and roots music festival, is back again in 2016 at the picturesque Willowbank Raceway site in south-east Queensland in March. Jason Aldean, one of the biggest superstar acts in American music, will headline CMC Rocks. Also making their first trip down under, Florida Georgia Line are the current ACM and CMA Duo of the Year. “I Don’t Dance” hitmaker Lee Brice will return to the festival, after blowing crowds away with his debut performance this March. The 2016 lineup is set to rock the site at Willowbank, near Ipswich. The list includes Brantley Gilbert (USA), Kip Moore (USA), Tyler Farr (USA), Blackjack Billy (USA), Kelsea Ballerini (USA), Chase Rice (USA), The Cadillac Three (USA), The Road Hammers (Can), Tim Hicks (Can), CAM (USA) and Drake White and the Big Fire (USA). Friday 11 - Sunday 13 March 2016.
Discover the heart of the heritage city...
IPSWICH FESTIVAL The Ipswich Festival features a cultural and arts program as diverse and exciting as any on offer throughout the country. Combining local performers with the nation’s best, with entertainment ranging from the extremely popular Street Parade, to the exclusive black tie Mayor’s Festival Ball, with multicultural Global Fiesta and programs exclusively for children, the Festival includes Art Exhibitions, Theatre, Street Art, Craft Exhibitions, Orchestral Concerts and the acclaimed Jazz, Wine and Blues Day. 7 - 24 April 2016. IPSWICH CUP The Ipswich Winter Racing Carnival kicks off in May and finishes with the biggest day of the year on the Ipswich racing calendar - Ipswich Cup Day on 13th June. It’s a great day for social networking, with fashions on the field, bands, and of course the horses and racing. Set yourself up in one of the many hospitality marquees or take a couple of picnic rugs and pick a spot on the lawn overlooking the winning post. Saturday 18 June 2016.
GOODNA JACARANDA FESTIVAL The Goodna Jacaranda Festival is held at Evan Marginson Park, Goodna on the last weekend in October. The park is surrounded by Jacaranda trees, some of which were planted as early as 1932 during the Great Depression. Each year as they burst into bloom the festival comes alive. 28 - 30 October 2016.
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Financial Future Our advisers have been working with Defence Families to achieve their financial goals for over 30 years! ASK US ABOUT ADF Super | ADF Cover | Budgeting | Debt Management | Estate Planning | Lending Advice | Options In Aged Care | Retirement Planning | Salary Packaging | SMSFs | Small Business Advice | Wealth Protection and more
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The Home of Kitsch in the Swich Vintage & Rockabilly Fashion Fiesta, Ipswich Battle of the Bands and Street Beat Ipswich Youth Festival.
IPSWICHCITYSQUARE THE HEART OF THE HERITAGE CITY Woolworths | Dimmeys | Harvey Norman Computers & Electrical Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas | Banking Services | Fashion Food & Dining | Hair & Beauty | Education & Training | Specialty Retail www.ipswichcitysquare.com.au Nicholas Street Mall, Ipswich | Phone 3812 2111 3 hours FREE undercover parking. FREE parking all weekend.
Stay connected with FREE WI-FI at Ipswich City Square.
Jade Financial Group Pty Ltd (ABN 74 109 203 018) trading as Jade Financial Group, is an authorised representative and credit representative of AMP Financial Planning Pty Ltd, Australian Financial Services Licensee and Australian Credit Licensee.
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
LIMESTONE MEDICAL CENTRE
art GALLERY
IPSWICH
Dr David Chambers Dr Geoffrey Mitchell Dr Rebecca Coote Dr Jonathan Thomas Dr Glen Walters Dr Katie Allen Dr Richard Chambers Dr Jessica Merlo Dr Benjamin Matters
10 Brisbane Street, Ipswich 4305
Phone 07 3281 4622
The Ipswich Art Gallery is a must-see attraction in southeast Queensland located in the restored old town hall in the heart of Ipswich Central. The Gallery presents a program of changing exhibitions and heritage displays, special events, family activities, complimentary performances and art workshops. It is one of the most-visited regional art galleries in Australia. A unique feature of the Gallery is a dedicated Children’s Gallery, Australia’s first dedicated art gallery for children. It is a place where children can imagine, create and discover. The Children’s Gallery presents a program of changing exhibitions, activities and events. These exhibitions and programs are designed to reflect children’s interests and provide opportunities for children to make their own art works, discover new ideas, interact with their families and play. Activities allow children to play, solve creative problems and investigate a variety of materials. The Children’s Gallery is a wheelchair and pram-friendly venue with large internal lifts. The gallery’s friendly volunteers are on hand to help
you to find your way around, and to bring your visit alive. Guided group tours of both the permanent and temporary exhibitions are available. Visitors should allow an hour or two to really enjoy the range of permanent and visiting exhibits, and to allow time for children to interact with various displays. Ipswich Art Gallery is located in the centre of Ipswich CBD, close to cafes and parks, and just a short walk from Ipswich Railway Station, bus stops and car parks. Entry to the permanent and long-term exhibits is free, with only a small fee charged for some of the temporary shows. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm daily. For more information about the Gallery go to www.ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au. For information about tours and current exhibitions phone 07 3810 7222.
serving Ipswich for over 60 years
IPSWICH 30 South Street 07 3281 2977
www.furniturecourt.com.au
BOONAH 34 Yeates Avenue 07 5463 1233
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www.bedsrus.com.au
THE WORKSHOPS RAIL MUSEUM ‘The Workshops’ as it is affectionately known is a site steeped in history. Whether you’re a rail fan or not, child or adult, this fabulous state of the art museum set in the historical railway workshops is well worth a visit. The very first train to run in Queensland steamed from here to Grandchester, over 140 years ago. For decades the site was the centre of rail construction, maintenance and technology for Queensland’s burgeoning rail industry. The rebirth of the site in 2002 as a world class rail museum, coupled with the oldest continually operating railway workshops in Australia, makes for a visitor experience second to none. Well-preserved engines and carriages capture the romance of the vintage era of rail travel and the interactive displays, films, simulated train driving and themed children’s playground are but some of the attractions so set aside at least a couple of hours to really appreciate your visit.
Proud to offer Defcom discounts to all service personnel ...
booval vet hospital
12 South Station Road, Booval Ph: 3282 6722
pine mountain vet clinic 24 Fernvale Road, Brassall Ph: 3201 8862
karalee village vet clinic
Shop 17, Junction Rd, Karalee Ph: 3282 9009
CUSTOM EXHAUST SPECIALIST MECHANICAL
• Log Book Service • All Mechanical Repairs • Brakes & Clutch • RWC • Suspensions & Shock Absorbers • Safety Inspections • 4X4 Accessories • Performance Products (Cold Air Induction)
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A comprehensive range of: • Mufflers • Cannons • Extractors • Repairs • Towbars • Bullbars • Performance & Standard • Stainless Steel • 2 Year Nationwide Warranty • Cars, Bikes, Light Commercial, Buses & Trucks
Phone 3281 0444 Ipswich Muffler & Mechanical, 224 Brisbane Street, West Ipswich
IPSWICH DAY & NIGHT CHEMIST
Estate claims (Conditions apply)
FAMILY LAW • Property Settlements • Divorce • Children’s Matters
WILLS/POWERS OF ATTORNEY
COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS • Leasing • Franchising • Business (Buying/Selling)
FIXED PRICE CONVEYANCING • Buying/Selling • Phone us for adivce
before signing contract
13 58 28 Email: enquiries@mcna.com.au Website: www.mcna.com.au
Phone 3281 3999 Cnr Brisbane & Wharf Streets, Ipswich (opposite Coles)
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QueenslandKitsch LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
IN THE SWICH RETRO FASHION FIESTA Calling all Vintage Vixens and Retro Rockabillies - Kitsch in the Swich is back in 2016. This retro fashion fiesta features vintage markets, live music, swing dancing, prom Queen and King pageant, pin-up parades, classic cars and vintage fashions galore. The first Kitsch was held in 2013 as a vintage festival to showcase the nostalgic vibe of the Ipswich City Square and was such a success that it has become a bi-annual event. With a fantastic program of events from 11am through to 7pm, you can learn how to do the sock hop or swing dance, attend a burlesque workshop, check out the free pamper parlour or find your own personal bombshell with a retro makeover. Heaps of kids activities all day, and the classic cars will bring back memories of a time when life seemed much simpler. The vibe and excitement at Kitsch in the Swich is something that everyone should experience ... so to all you cool cats, get your best threads on, and be there or be square!
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West Moreton Anglican College Est 1994
Ipswich Queensland
West Moreton Anglican College is a co-educational school for Prep to Year 12 students, set on 38 hectares just minutes from Ipswich and the Amberley RAAF Base. The College offers: • Defence Transition Mentor on staff • Respect and Responsibility Behavioural Program • Buddy system for new students • Onsite after hours care • Dedicated bus service from Amberley RAAF base.
Interested in joining forces with WestMAC? Please call (07) 3813 4555 for our prospectus.
Keswick Road Karrabin Ipswich Queenland
www.wmac.com.au IN PURSUIT OF INDIVIDUAL EXCELLENCE
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West Moreton Anglican College
THE SPECTACULAR SCENIC RIM
MAKE A SPLASH AT RIVER HEART
TOP OF TOWN - FUNKY SHOPPING
It’s the place to be when it’s hot, for kids and families right across the Ipswich region. River Heart Parklands on the Bremer River at Ipswich combines a water park, playground and shady forest park for all the family to enjoy. With predictions for a long, hot summer there’s no doubt that the River Heart parklands will be a huge hit for summer. With a zero depth water park and extensive play equipment, including a spider web style climbing frame and a 25 metre flying fox, the water park is a delight for kids and parents. “It looks fantastic and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone enjoying this space,” Mayor Paul Pisasale said. “The boardwalk is a boon to walkers and cyclists, and allows people to view the Bremer River from a close vantage point that’s not been seen before.”
Ipswich is on the verge of a renaissance. With its well-preserved heritage buildings and gracious parks, a new wave of cafes and boutiques, tapas and wine bars, an awardwinning museum and art gallery, it has more than enough attractions to make it high on the must-visit list. The funky little precinct of cafes, boutiques, hotels and wine bars known as Top of Town occupies two blocks of Ipswich’s oldest and best maintained heritage buildings, just on the west side of the city centre along Brisbane Street. Within Top of Town are a bevy of characterfilled cafes and coffee nooks along with interesting shopping and business destinations. If the in-crowd is your thing, you can find rustic artsy bistros and tapas bars, boutique beers, and wine bars - Top of Town has it all.
The Scenic Rim is an arc of spectacular mountains lying from south of Beaudesert, around to the area south west of Ipswich, in South East Queensland. It is situated within Australia’s Green Cauldron which stretches from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast and west towards the Great Dividing Range. The sheer size of the caldera is breathtaking and shelters a huge diversity of rare flora and fauna, and subtropical rainforests. This natural wonderland is a direct link back to the days of the Gondwana Land super continent. Rainforest, platypuses, bowerbirds, echidnas, luminescent crayfish, glowworms, kites and owls are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the nature-based experiences here. Heading down off the range, through winding roads and farmland, the villages of the Scenic Rim reveal themselves shyly. Food and wine, romantic escapes, camping, bushwalking, country pubs, art, history and adventures are all here tied together by the landscape and the beautiful towns and villages dotted throughout. The Boonah District and surrounds is known as the Heart of the Scenic Rim. A pleasant hour’s drive from Brisbane, the townships of Boonah and nearby Kalbar and Harrisville are easily accessible. They have a rich German history which is reflected in many sites around the area.
Opportunities for everyone Co-educational Kindy to Year 12 • State of the Art Science Labs • New Primary Campus • OSH Care • College Bus Service to surrounding areas • Film, TV, New Media & Technology Facilities
W EnrollaNceO s still Some pilable ava
Visit our ll r ca e w bsite o now 0 0 3437 90 tour d e id u g a for
Achievement Belonging Care Stuart Street, Goodna
wcc.qld.edu.au DefenceLife 45
Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
Toowoomba Toowoomba is situated on the Great Dividing Range, strategically located at the junction of the Warrego, New England and Gore Highways. With a diverse economy, and in close proximity to Brisbane and the Sunshine and Gold Coasts, it offers the best of urban and rural environments. Covering almost 13,000 square kilometres, the Toowoomba Regional Council area offers a diverse range of lifestyle choices for its 158,000 residents. Inner city, suburban, country town, village or rural addresses ensure a range of options when considering your next residential environment. Irrespective of where you decide to call home, you will be only a short drive away from first class shopping, medical, educational, cultural, entertainment and recreation facilities expected of a modern, progressive region. Toowoomba City boasts three major hospitals while several smaller hospitals are located across
CHRIST-CENTRED FAITHfutureCOLLABORATION Have FAITH in her
the area. The Council operates the magnificent Empire Theatre which hosts national and international acts, three art galleries, 11 libraries, and these facilities combined with several privately-owned art galleries, give residents plenty of cultural and learning opportunities. Nine golf courses, numerous swimming pools, rugby league, rugby union, Aussie rules, soccer, cricket, softball, netball, basketball playing fields and stadiums cater for sports-minded residents and visitors; from eight-year-olds to eighty-yearolds. The Toowoomba region is home to two military bases. Borneo Barracks at Cabarlah, 20 kilometres north of Toowoomba, has been
ENJOYMENT
SEEKING EXCELLENCE
a part of the local landscape for over half a century. It is home to 7th Signals Regiment and the Electronic Warfare Wing of the Defence Force School of Signals. The Army Aviation Centre is located at Oakey, 30 kilometres west of Toowoomba. Oakey is home to the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre, the School of Army Aviation and the Army Helicopter School. Adjacent to the base is the excellent Museum of Army Aviation which is open to the public and hosts an annual fly-in. Whether you are posted to Borneo Barracks or Oakey, you will appreciate the choice of lifestyles, facilities and services available in the Toowoomba region.
RESPECT
Fairholme College offers day and boarding girls high quality contemporary educational experiences within a caring Christian community. T 4688 4688 E enrol@fairholme.qld.edu.au
Fairholme
College TOOWOOMBA
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www.fairholme.qld.edu.au
FAIRHOLME JUNIOR Kindy – Year 6 FAIRHOLME MIDDLE SCHOOL Years 7 – 9 FAIRHOLME SENIOR SCHOOL Years 10 –12
Proudly a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland
Boarding from Year 6 – Year 12
CITY VIBE THE EMPIRE THEATRE Heritage listed, Toowoomba’s Empire Theatre boasts the latest purpose-built facilities as well as retaining the grandeur and superb acoustics of the original theatre built in 1911. It is the largest performing arts theatre in regional Australia. The architecture retains original existing elements from 1911 and complements them with modern seating for 1567 people. With a varied program from rock to classical, ballet to comedy, the Empire Theatre has something for everyone. JAPANESE GARDENS One of the most beautiful parks in Toowoomba is the university’s Japanese Garden - Australia’s largest traditionally designed Japanese stroll garden. Opened in 1989, it comprises 3km of paths, 230 species of Japanese and Australian native trees and plants, and beautifully landscaped lawns. About 2500 azaleas are planted as a representation of hillsides in Japan where azaleas grow wild. The red bridges, the Central Lake, a waterfall and ducks complement this stunning garden.
PICNIC POINT Picnic Point is the best place to appreciate Toowoomba’s location on the top of the Great Dividing Range. Consisting of beautifully landscaped parkland with playgrounds, barbecue and picnic facilities and views over the Lockyer Valley, Picnic Point is a great spot for families and couples. There is ample parking, picnic benches, a cafe and restaurant, and various walking tracks. RIDE THE RANGE Ride the Range starts as the sun is rising over the Great Dividing Range. Cyclists start the challenge at Picnic Point Toowoomba, with the option of the full 112km ride, a slightly less challenging 85km, or a gentle 50km. The descent offers stunning views over the countryside as you cycle down along Flagstone Creek Road. View the spectacular patchwork of the Lockyer valley before the non-relenting challenge of the ascent back to Picnic Point in Toowoomba. The 50km ride finishes at Lake Apex Gatton, where riders are met by a bus which brings you back to Picnic Point. COBB & CO MUSEUM Part of the Queensland Museum, the Cobb & Co Museum is home to the National Carriage Collection which features nearly 50 horsedrawn vehicles and galleries noting the natural and cultural history of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. From blacksmithing and silversmithing to leadlighting and millinery, there is much to see at the museum.
26 -28 MARCH 2016 EASTER VINTAGE FESTIVAL Highfields Pioneer Village will celebrate its annual Vintage Festival on Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Come and experience rural life in the Australian Pioneer days! Milk a cow, learn how to crack a whip or be a blacksmith. Enjoy billy tea and damper made on authentic camp ovens. Don’t miss the spectacular Grand Parade. If you love history, or just looking for a great day out you will have a wonderful time. 16 -25 SEPTEMBER 2016 CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers grows bigger, brighter and more colourful each year. It is the longest running floral event of its kind in Australia as the premiere celebration of flowers, food, wine, culture, entertainment and all things Spring! A vibrant floral street parade, spectacular exhibition gardens, fabulous food, wondrous wine and exceptional entertainment, this 10-day event appeals to all age groups and reinforces Toowoomba’s reputation of ‘The Garden City’.
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Queensland LIVING AND WORKING IN QUEENSLAND
Townsville Townsville is the largest city in North Queensland and is one of the fastest growing cities in the state, with a population exceeding 170,000. Located roughly halfway between Brisbane and the tip of Cape York, Townsville is nestled on the shores of Cleveland Bay, alongside the Great Barrier Reef. Townsville is an ideal location to live, from the family suburbs of Kirwan and Annandale to apartment style living in the cosmopolitan city centre. The housing styles range from traditional Queenslanders to contemporary rendered lowset homes. Distance from the City centre to Lavarack Barracks is approximately 9.5km and to the RAAF Base it is approximately 5km.
Townsville has 18 high schools and 41 primary schools and offers tertiary education options through the Barrier Reef Institutes of TAFE and James Cook University. Townsville is also home to the Australian Technical College North Queensland which provides academic courses, business studies and trade training. One of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world. It is larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on earth visible from space.
The reef, between 15 kilometres and 150 kilometres off shore and around 65 km wide in some parts, is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable. A closer encounter with the Great Barrier Reef reveals astounding underwater attractions including more than 400 species of coral, coral sponges, molluscs, rays, dolphins, tropical fish, more than 200 types of birds, around 20 types of reptiles including sea turtles and giant clams over 120 years old.
Townsville Grammar school Proudly supporting Defence families... • Defence Service Transition Aides • Supportive of the unique needs of Defence families • Annandale Campus (Pre-Prep - Year 6) located opposite Lavarack Barracks • Providing a Grammar education, highly regarded, wherever your next posting may be. For a personalised tour contact kristell.scott@tgs.qld.edu.au or call 4722 4973 48
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CITY VIBE THE STRAND Townsville’s Strand is without a doubt a must do whilst visiting north QLD. The Strand is situated along the shore line and has magnificent views of the Port of Townsville and Magnetic Island, as well as views stretching all the way out to Cape Cleveland. The Strand incorporates a jetty, recreational park, restaurants, cafes, a series of headlands, a free water park, picnic areas and swimming pools and enclosures. Children enjoy the large water playground and various sights along the walk, and once you reach the northern end you will be amazed with the lagoon style in-ground pool. CASTLE HILL Castle hill dominates the Townsville landscape with its pink hues and from some angles it resembles a scene from Jurassic Park with the Palms in the foreground and the hill rising from the ground. The lookout is worth the trip up the steep winding road for the magnificent views of the
city as well as its historical significance. You haven’t been to Townsville if you haven’t been to the top of Castle Hill. Also a popular walk for the fitness enthusiasts. BILLABONG SANCTUARY Nowhere else in Australia can you interact with so many of Australia’s native animals. Visit Billabong Sanctuary for a fantastic day! You can cuddle a koala, hold a wombat, and if you’re brave enough, there’s snake and crocodile handling too! Nestled in 11 hectares (25 acres) of tropical bushland, the sanctuary is home to a magnificent variety of native mammals, birds and reptiles. Stroll around the park with the friendly kangaroos and wallabies, take part in all the handling and feeding shows, or simply relax by the pool. STRAND SWIM, TOWNSVILLE Join in the 2.5 km and 5 km ocean swims held off Strand Beach, Townsville held by the Townsville Open Water Swimming Association.
There`s also a Junior 1 km swim. The 5 km swim is a qualifier for the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim held later, in July.
2 WAYS TO ENROL INTO Tec-NQ
Tec Prep Delivering Quality Trades Training
54 Discovery Drive Douglas QLD 4814 p: 07 4779 2199 w: tecnq.com.au
Tec-NQ is Townsville’s only senior school with a fully contextualised trade program. Is your son or daughter currently enrolled in Year 10? Do they want a trade? Applicants may choose to enrol in one of the following programs: Construction, Electrotechnology, Engineering, Automotive and Information Technology. This unique program features an extensive work placement schedule for up to 12 weeks in Year 11 and 23 weeks in Year 12 - THAT’S A TOTAL OF 175 DAYS WORK EXPERIENCE on offer. Students that complete the Year 11 and 12 school-based apprentice program may finish with an apprenticeship, their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), Certificate II qualifications in Business, Workplace Practices and IT, and advanced progression in their chosen trade. Look us up on Facebook or google Tec-NQ for more information about this unique program. Not stationed in Townsville? Accommodation options are available for external students.
Starting 20 July 2016 (limited spaces available)
Sample every trade Short courses in literacy and numeracy
Enrol directly in Year 11 Start January 2016 Choose your trade Study for QCE Extensive work experience (35 weeks over 2 years)
Offering Secondary Schooling in 2016 Enrolling Prep to Year 9 in 2016 Prep through to Year 12 by 2019 Offering: hA safe and welcoming Catholic environment hQuality learning hExtensive sporting grounds hDefence School Transition Aide Support hQuality Outside School Hours Care service hInnovative technologies in our learning environment hBrand new secondary facilities hWell regarded by military families, for their children’s education Principal, Mrs Louise Vella-Cox, welcomes all enrolment enquiries and invites families to experience the Catholic school difference. Gartrell Drive, Annandale Q 4814 | PO Box 1747, Aitkenvale Q 4814 T: (07) 4778 3444 | F: (07) 4778 3500 | E: anndle@sctsv.catholic.edu.au DefenceLife 49
Northern Terri Darwin LIVING AND WORKING IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY
Equivalent in size to France, Italy and Spain combined, Australia’s Outback Northern Territory is bordered by Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia. Blessed with an abundance of natural environments, the Territory is famous for its spectacular wildlife.
This is an environment that ebbs and flows with the seasons, of contrast and colour, where change is the only constant. The Northern Territory is made up of six council areas, each with its own unique attractions. Darwin is arguably Australia’s most cosmopolitan city, boasting a population made up of people from more than 60 nationalities and 70 different ethnic backgrounds. The city’s multicultural mix is particularly highlighted by
its many exciting ethnic cultural festivals and weekly food and craft markets. The city was founded as Australia’s most northerly harbour port in 1869, and its population rapidly expanded after the discovery of gold at nearby Pine Creek in 1871. World War II put the city on the map as a major allied military base for troops fighting the Japanese in the Pacific. Today travellers can see evidence of Darwin’s World War II history at a variety of
preserved sites including ammunition bunkers, airstrips and oil tunnels in and around the city. Darwin’s traditional owners, the Larrakia people, are prominent and active members of the community, and many still adhere closely to their traditional beliefs and customs. Darwin has evolved from its days as an incredibly laid back frontier town and while it still retains its relaxed charm, it has become a highly sophisticated city.
WELCOME FROM DARWIN MAYOR KATRINA FONG LIM Welcome to Darwin and the Top End of Australia’s Northern Territory. I cherish the multicultural and cosmopolitan city we live in today – Darwin is a tropical, liveable city that creates opportunity and choice for our community. Darwin was destroyed and rebuilt during the 1940s, and then again following Cyclone Tracy in 1974. These parts of our history have helped shape our people and our community to become strong and capable, connected, spirited and determined. Our defence people do tremendous work for our country and as our city has embraced our defence personnel, we hope in turn you embrace the city and all it has to offer. We are a culturally rich city where we enjoy our entertainment, cafes and restaurants, and our fabulous and famous local markets.
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City of Darwin prides itself on the services it offers our community. We have three public swimming pools, four libraries and three community centres. We offer many programs for families including story time sessions at our libraries, outdoor activities for kids during school holidays and many community events. We encourage all new arrivals to enjoy Darwin and make the most of your time here. Council’s website is www.darwin.nt.gov.au where you can find out about community events as well as by following us on Facebook and Twitter. Welcome to the Darwin family, we look forward to enjoying your company.
Katrina Fong Lim LORD MAYOR OF DARWIN
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ALICE SPRINGS Alice Springs is Australia’s most inland town, being close to the furthest point from the coast which is around 200km North West of Alice Springs. Although there are many unsealed roads connecting Alice Springs to other Australian settlements and towns the Stuart Highway is the only fully sealed road in the area. Alice Springs is one of the remotest places in the world, but it’s no country town. Alice Springs is a major communications and commercial centre. It has most of the services you would find in any Australian city. The municipality of Alice Springs covers an area of 328 sq kms and has a population estimated at more than 30,000 people.
PALMERSTON The second largest city in the Northern Territory, Palmerston is a young, vibrant regional hub with a fast-growing future. Located 20kms from the Territory’s capital Darwin, Palmerston is a diverse community with many young families calling the city ‘home’, along with defence personnel and a range of local businesses. The city boasts more than 35,000 residents and is currently undergoing a significant period of infrastructure growth and development, with Council adopting a detailed master plan for the city centre to be rolled out over the next 20 years. Designed to accommodate Palmerston’s growing population and reinvigorate the CBD, work on the first stage of the master plan commenced at the end of 2013.
KATHERINE The town of Katherine situated on the Katherine River is 320 kilometres southeast of Darwin, and is also the closest major town to RAAF Base Tindal located 17 km southeast. The town provides education, health, local government services and employment opportunities for the families of Defence families stationed there. Beginning as an outpost established with the Australian Overland Telegraph Line on the North-South transport route between Darwin and Adelaide, Katherine has grown with the development of transport and local industries tourism gateway to the attractions of nearby Nitmiluk National Park, particularly Katherine Gorge and its many ancient rock paintings. The region is known to experience heavy flooding during the wet season.
The Territory not just another posting A new posting can be both exciting and challenging for Defence families. The Northern Territory Government is committed to ensuring the NT is an attractive and family friendly posting for Defence personnel and their families. The NT offers a relaxed tropical lifestyle with access to high quality facilities, including recreation and sporting facilities catering for the whole family. For a snapshot of Life in Darwin, view our YouTube video by visiting www.defencesupport.nt.gov.au and clicking on Welcome to the Territory. Or for your free DVD copy of Life in Darwin or Life in Katherine, email Defencesupport@nt.gov.au For all further information please call (08) 8999 7520.
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Northern Terri LIVING AND WORKING IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY
CITY VIBE
KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
No visit to the Top End can ever be complete unless you experience the magnificent Kakadu National Park. It is supremely beautiful and immensely important for its Aboriginal history and unique ecology. World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park boasts more than 1,000 Aboriginal rock art sites making it one of Australia’s most important cultural treasures. The 19,000 square kilometre park is 260km east of Darwin on the sealed Arnhem Highway. Most accessible in the dry season from May to September, it is at its most spectacular in the Wet as evening storms deluge the land creating massive lakes teaming with birdlife. Though you may not be able to see the entire park’s most beautiful places, such as Jim Jim and Twin Falls, any time is the right time to go to Kakadu. To find out more about this wonderful place in Australia’s history and landscape, go to: www.tourismnt.com.au
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ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE Since 1928 the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has provided 24-hour emergency medical services to those who live, work and travel throughout Australia. Visit the original Alice Springs working base (circa1939) to learn more about this unique service. The Royal Flying Doctor Service is a non-profit organisation relying on fundraising initiatives and community donations to purchase and medically equip its Pilatus PC-12 aircraft – at a cost of $6 million each.
ABORIGINAL CULTURE CENTRE For 40,000 years the red centre of Australia has been a traditional meeting place for the trading of Aboriginal artifacts, knowledge, art and culture. Now you can learn to play a didgeridoo, throw a spear or boomerang, and learn about Aboriginal culture and listen to dreamtime stories. DARWIN WATERFRONT The Darwin Waterfront has been a welcome addition to the tropical city of Darwin. A short stroll from the CBD, The Waterfront Precinct is home to the Territory’s only Wave Lagoon. Offering safe year-round swimming the Wave Lagoon is open daily and is a great spot to cool off, relax or ride a wave. The Lagoon and shallow toddler pools are chlorinated salt water with the depth varying from 2m at the deepest point. MUSEUM & ART GALLERY OF THE NT The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory covers many aspects of the region’s art, natural sciences, history and culture. Featuring fantastic permanent collections of Aboriginal Art and culture, visual arts and crafts, maritime archaeology and NT history, the gallery also features an excellent display of Cyclone Tracey which devastated Darwin in 1974. It’s great entertainment for all the family.
MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKET From April to October, the Mindil Beach market folk come together for their worldfamous ‘show and sell’. Held every Thursday and Sunday 5pm-10pm, the Market regularly attracts crowds of up to 15,000. With local produce, authentic fare from different countries, some of the most colourful Territorians ply their wares and services, and a galaxy of excellent street performers keep you entertained. DECKCHAIR CINEMA Deckchair Cinema, operated by the Darwin Film Society, is a unique cinema experience. The outdoor setting, on the edge of Darwin Harbour is absolutely stunning. Watch the sun set over the sea, then sit under the stars and enjoy the tropical garden setting with a meal and a drink before the film. Deckchair Cinema runs seven nights a week during the dry season (April to November) screening a range of movies that include family favourites, Australian and foreign films. AUSTRALIAN AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE The Australian Aviation Heritage Centre is one of the major aviation museums in Australia, with an impressive presentation of aircraft from the early pioneers and record breakers through World War II and the jet age. There are two major displays. One is a massive B-52 bomber on permanent loan from the US Air Force and is one of only two on public display in the world outside the USA. The other major display is the F-111, one of six aircraft on loan to qualified civilian historical societies and aviation museums. The F-111 fleet was retired by the Air Force in December 2010 after 37 years of service.
BOMBING OF DARWIN On 19 February 1942, World War II was brought to the shores of Australia when the Japanese dropped bombs over Darwin. The Bombing of Darwin was the first of more than 90 Japanese air raids across the top end of Australia from February 1942 until November 1943. The first wave of 188 aircraft attacked Darwin on Thursday 19 February 1942. 243 people were confirmed killed and between 320 and 500 injured. Eight ships (naval & civilian) were sunk in the harbour including USS Peary, in which more than 80 American sailors were killed. A section of the wharf was destroyed, killing 22 waterside workers. Over the next 21 months, Darwin, Adelaide River, Katherine and Milingimbi in Arnhem Land were bombed 64 times. In recognition of this defining moment in Australia’s history, on 7 December 2011 the Governor-General proclaimed 19 February a national day of observance, to be known as Bombing of Darwin Day. 2015 marked the 73rd Anniversary to tribute, honour and remember those who defended Darwin. The Anniversary is commemorated each year on 19 February at the Cenotaph, Bicentennial Park, Darwin.
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IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY The Australian Defence Force (ADF) regards northern Australia as strategically important, both for national defence and as a forward base for regional engagement. The ADF presence in northern Australia also directly contributes to the economic and social development of the region. All three ADF armed Services have Northern Territory bases. The Army operates from Larrakeyah and Robertson Barracks while the Navy is based at HMAS Coonawarra. The Air Force has RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal. Two of the Army’s three multi-role combat brigades are based in northern Australia; with the 1st Brigade predominantly located at Robertson Barracks and the 3rd Brigade - consisting of more than 4,000 personnel—located at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville. Notably, 1st Brigade was moved to Darwin in 1992 following the 1991 Force Structure Review’s recommendation to have more regular units based in northern Australia. The Army also operates three Regional Force Surveillance Units in northern Australia; the Pilbara Regiment, 51st Battalion (Far North Queensland Regiment) and the North-West Mobile Force (NORFORCE). Although NORFORCE is based at Darwin’s Larrakeyah Barracks, its personnel (60 per cent of which are Aboriginal soldiers) patrol 1.8 million square kilometres spanning the Northern Territory and Western Australia’s Kimberley region. To increase the operational capacity of the ADF’s northern bases, various potential upgrades of their facilities are planned. These include extending the wharf at HMAS Coonawarra to appropriately dock a larger replacement of the existing Armidale class patrol boats (10 of which are stationed there) and providing facilities for the new Landing Helicopter Dock ships with a second deep-water port east of Darwin. These upgrades would be significant, as commentators have noted that Darwin’s commercial port has often been required to facilitate berthing for large warships. Compounding this strain is the suggestion that the increased US Marine Corps presence in Darwin would likely require additional wharf infrastructure. In response to these pressures—particularly relating to support for the LHDs. The Government announced in June 2015 that a Multi User Barge Ramp Facility would be constructed in the Port of Darwin, to be completed by mid-2016. The RAAF currently operates it’s F/A-18 Hornet aircraft from RAAF Base Tindal, near Katherine and he Australian Government is acquiring 72 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) F-35A aircraft to replace the current FA/18 Hornet fleet. These aircraft will deliver the RAAF’s next generation strike aircraft capability. One of the JSF squadrons will be based at RAAF Base Tindal . Under the RAAF’s ‘New Air Combat Capability Facilities Project’, new facilities to accommodate the JSF squadron at Tindal are being built. A substantial component of the ADF’s strategic considerations
regarding northern Australia will continue to be resource allocation, both in terms of infrastructure and personnel. It has been reported that, in the next decade, an estimated $3 billion is to be spent in the Northern Territory on approximately 30 defence-related construction projects. The Northern Territory government has specifically noted that improved defence sustainment industry could also provide new opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
While in Darwin... Visit one of our pools at Casuarina, Nightcliff or Parap? Become a member for free at our libraries? Visit our website or find us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on community events and activities. Visit darwin.nt.gov.au or call 8930 0300 for more on Council programs and services DefenceLife 53
Northern Terri LIVING AND WORKING IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY
EDUCATION ACROSS THE
Northern Territory
School is compulsory in the Northern Territory from the age of six. However, children can enrol in preschools earlier than this and start Transition as they approach five years of age. STAGES OF SCHOOL Preschool in NT is not compulsory, although it is highly recommended. Children can attend government preschools from the age of four. At some non-government preschools, children can start earlier than this. At age five children start Transition, the first stage of primary school. Children often enter Transition mid-term, depending on their birthday and the numbers of other children in that age group. Children are in Transition for up to 12 months and move into Year 1 when the school and parents agree they are ready. Students attend primary school until they complete Year 6. For Years 7 to 12, children attend secondary school. SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLING Senior secondary students work towards the Northern Territory Certificate of Education. The certificate is issued to students who meet the requirements and levels of achievement during their senior secondary studies. There are two levels: Stage 1, generally Year 11, and Stage 2, generally Year 12. Although most students complete the certificate in two years, it can be done part-time for as many years as required. THE AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM Northern Territory schools commenced teaching Australian Curriculum English and Mathematics in 2012 and Science and History at the beginning of Semester Two in 2013. The NT implementation timeline approved
by the NT Board of Studies provides details on the implementation of subsequent Australian Curriculum learning areas and subjects. NT CURRICULUM FRAMEWORK Since 2002 the Northern Territory (NT) has had a mandated Curriculum Framework that identifies learning outcomes for all Northern Territory students from Transition to Year 10. The NTCF describes what students are expected to achieve and is used to determine what has been achieved. NTCF outcomes have been re-constructed into achievement standards to enable a consistent assessment and reporting methodology with Australian Curriculum achievement
standards. NT schools continue to use the learning areas of the NTCF that are not yet replaced by Australian Curriculum learning areas and subjects according to the implementation timeline. YEAR 10 CURRICULUM Support materials are provided for Year 10 Australian Curriculum English and Mathematics. These include sequence suggestions, template learning and assessment plans and subject specific performance standards which are aligned to the Australian Curriculum achievement standards. Year 10 literacy and numeracy courses are offered for students who have not met the Year 9 achievement standards. Teachers design student specific programs to meet a students’ current ability and move them towards the year 10 achievement standards. School leaving age In the Northern Territory it is compulsory for all students to complete Year 10 and then participate in education, training or employment until they turn 17. Tertiary Entrance Rank The Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER) is one of the factors universities use to determine whether a student is eligible for a course. The Northern Territory Certificate of Education (NTCE) and TER issued to Northern Territory students are recognised nationally. The NTCE is the equivalent of senior secondary certificates across Australia.
Where in the world would you find... ... quality education with small, personalised classes, a strong global focus, world-class cricket, incredible VET opportunities, inspiring leadership programs, supportive Pastoral Care, the International Baccalaureate, an out-of-this-world outdoor education program combined with an internationally benchmarked and accredited curriculum? Darwin’s Kormilda College of course! Our innovative environment and proven track record for life-long learning is enrolling now from Early Learning right through to Year 12 – all on one HUGE state-of-the-art campus.
Welcome to our world! www.kormilda.nt.edu.au | Tel: 08 8922 1611 54
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Kormilda College Towards tomorrow
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SERVICES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE Youth play a highly important role in the Darwin community. In fact, the Northern Territory is second only to the ACT with a higher than national average youth population in comparison to its total population. Darwin Council recognises its youth community as diverse, dynamic and requiring specialised attention. Under the Youth Services banner, Council convenes the Youth Advisory Group (YAG), the GRIND youth website and events team which hosts an annual youth event or workshop. YAG advises Council on a range of issues and makes recommendations on issues that affect young people locally. The group acts as a central point for youth issues at a Council level and also at different times hosts projects such as THE BIG GIG and the Youth Energy Precinct. In early 2000, City of Darwin agreed to fund a youth publication. A very small group of young people got together to create the first edition of the paper and decided to name it GRIND. Over time, Youth Services at Council has developed GRIND with local young people so that it can involve as many different young people as possible. GRIND has evolved from a simple A3 newsletter into a fully interactive, multimedia website; reflecting how diverse the youth population is in Darwin. GRIND is an excellent way to showcase and demonstrate to the Darwin community just how vibrant, creative and active young people are. Since the adoption of its first Youth Strategy in 2000, all youth events supported by Council such as THE BIG GIG, POPART, WILPOWER and the GRIND website were planned, hosted and delivered exclusively by young people for young people. LAUNCH is City of Darwin’s primary youth participation program for young people by young people. Annually, it presents a program of training, workshops and events. LAUNCH Quarterly hits the street every three months with a full program of upcoming activities and opportunities for young people at the City of Darwin. For young people, a free pocket size youth information card is produced and distributed to all students and youth service providers in the Darwin area. For further information, please contact Council’s Youth Services Officer on 8930 0635, email youthprojects@darwin.nt.gov.au or visit the website: darwin.nt.gov.au/live/your-community.
FIND YOUR LOCAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL (08) 8984 1400 www.ceont.catholic.edu.au/our-schools-1 17 Beaton Rd, Berrimah
ALICE SPRINGS
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic College PO BOX 2508, Alice Springs NT 0871 Phone: (08) 8950 6400 Fax: (08) 8952 4607 Email: admin.olshalice@nt.catholic.edu.au St Joseph’s Catholic Flexible Learning Centre PO Box 2991, Alice Springs NT 0871 Youth Hub, 3 Wills Terrace, Alice Springs NT 0870 Mobile: 0408 568 357 Email: stjosephsASFLC@youthplus.edu.au
DARWIN & PALMERSTON Holy Family Catholic Primary School Calytrix Rd, Karama PO Box 40870, Casuarina NT 0811 Phone: (08) 8927 6188 Fax: (08) 8945 2254 Email: admin.holyfamily@nt.catholic.edu.au Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School Gsell St, Wanguri PO Box 40030, Casuarina NT 0811 Phone: (08) 8927 3411 Fax: (08) 8927 9971 Email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au MacKillop Catholic College 285 Farrar Boulevard, Johnston 0832 PO Box 2608, Palmerston NT 0831 Phone: (08) 8930 5757 Fax: (08) 8930 5700 Email: mackillopcollege@nt.catholic.edu.au O’Loughlin Catholic College Mueller Rad, Karama PO Box 41911, Casuarina NT 0811 Phone: (08) 8945 1277 Fax: (08) 8927 7140 Email: secretary.oloughlin@nt.catholic.edu.au Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School 34 Emery Ave, Woodroffe PO Box 271, Palmerston NT 0831 Phone: (08) 8924 8700 Fax: (08) 8924 8788 Email: admin.shps@nt.catholic.edu.au St John’s Catholic College Salonika St, Darwin LMB 13, Darwin NT 0801 Phone: (08) 8982 2222 Fax: (08) 8982 2204 Email: admin.stjohns@nt.catholic.edu.au
THE ESSINGTON INTERNATIONAL SENIOR COLLEGE
CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY
St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Lindsay St, Darwin GPO Box 2413, Darwin NT 0801 Phone: (08) 8981 9796 Fax: (08) 8981 5286 Email: admin.stmarys@nt.catholic.edu.au
A unique, quality, senior secondary college providing a smooth transition and orientation to university and post secondary courses.
St Paul’s Catholic Primary School Cnr Tower Rd & Francis St, Nightcliff PO Box 40344, Casuarina NT 0811 Phone: (08) 8985 1911 Fax: (08) 8948 0227 Email: admin.stpauls@nt.catholic.edu.au
Academies of Excellence Programs for talented Senior secondary students in: Science, Maths, Technology, Engineering, Medical Sciences, Visual Art and Chinese and Japanese Language. For Information Phone (08) 8985 0100 E: seniorcollege@essington.nt.edu.au W: www.essington.nt.edu.au
HUMPTY DOO & KATHERINE
St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School Challoner Circ, Humpty Doo PO Box 921, Humpty Doo NT 0836 Phone: (08) 8988 1212 Fax: (08) 8988 1514 Email: admin.sfas@nt.catholic.edu.au St Joseph’s Catholic College Cnr Maluka rd & Chambers Drv, Katherine PO Box 535, Katherine NT 0851 Phone: (08) 8972 3555 Fax: (08) 8972 3701 Email: admin.stjosephs@nt.catholic.edu.au
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Australian Cap LIVING AND WORKING IN THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
Canberra
Canberra, the nation’s capital, is located in the Australian Capital Territory. The city is 150 kilometres inland and 571 metres above the Pacific Ocean, 281 kilometres from Sydney and 660 kilometres from Melbourne. About 367,000 people live in Canberra. The area was chosen for the federal capital in 1908. Canberra’s special contrast of nature and urban living was planned in 1912 by master designer, Walter Burley Griffin, a Chicago architect who won an international design competition. Since then, Canberra has grown into a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with national attractions of heritage and history. Canberra is the home of the Australian story. When you want to learn and celebrate what it means to be Australian, our nation’s history and culture and our way of life, Canberra is the place to be. Discover the Australian National Collection in museums, galleries, libraries and archives, enjoy outdoor recreation in extensive natural park lands and get a taste of the thriving food and wine scene. Explore Canberra for Australian culture and history at superb monuments and galleries in this city surrounded by parklands and native bushland. Visit Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia and Questacon. Experience the the Balloon Fiesta in autumn, Fireside Festival in winter, and Floriade in spring. Explore the Australian Alps or Tidnbinbilla Nature Reserve and Murrumbidgee
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River Corridor, just a short drive away. Websites that provide a wealth of information about our national capital include: www.visitcanberra.com.au www.canberratourism.com.au PARLIAMENT HOUSE The home of Australia’s Parliament and the meeting place of a nation, Parliament House is located on a 32-hectare site on Capital Hill and is the focal point of Canberra. The building is open to the public every day of the year except for Christmas Day. Additionally, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House brings the journey of Australian democracy to life, presenting its past, present and possible futures.
DEFENCE IN THE ACT Canberra is home to most of Australia’s defence leadership. Defence headquarters are centred mainly in Russell Offices, Brindabella Business Park and Campbell Park Offices. The Australian Defence Force Academy Canberra provides future ADF officers with a university education, and is the primary training establishment for officers of the ADF. The Royal Military College Duntroon is situated approximately five minutes from the city centre, and it prepares candidates for careers as officers in the Army. The Air Force’s RAAF Base Fairbairn is located approximately eight kilometres from the centre of Canberra, and is home to No 34 Squadron flying the VIP transport fleet based out of Canberra airport.
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paintings loved by all Australians. Paintings such as Shearing the rams (1888-90) and A break away! (1891) are among the nation’s best known works of art. The Tom Roberts exhibition takes place during an exciting period of change at the NGA, including a large-scale rehang of almost every work of art, with Australian art taking pride of place in a new location. Rediscover your NGA!
NATIONAL GALLERIES & MUSEUMS The vast wealth of Australia’s culture, history and way of life is housed in the national museums, galleries and attractions in Canberra. These national icons offer an intriguing insight into the Australian character and democracy, and our journey from an indigenous continent to a modern nation. See the famous painting “Blue Poles” on a visit to the National Art Gallery or visit the National Portrait Gallery to see portraits of people who have shaped our nation. Experience the work of legendary Australian artist Tom Roberts December 2015 to March 2106 at the NGA. This extraordinary exhibition brings together Tom Roberts’ most famous
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL The Australian War Memorial is a first class museum and extensive archive, commemorating the sacrifice of Australian men and women who have served in war, assisting Ausralians to remember and to understand the enduring impact of war on Australian society. Open daily 10am to 5pm with a moving Last Post Ceremony every day at 4.55pm.
Save the date! SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2015 Welcome spring in Australia’s capital. Inspired by a fresh new theme every year, Canberra’s world-class spring festival, Floriade runs each year mid-September to mid-October with more than one million blooms on display as a backdrop to celebrations throughout Commonwealth Park. Visitors will see the theme represented in garden beds, horticultural workshops, engaging demonstrations, children’s entertainment and the ticketed twilight event, Floriade NightFest. In addition to the beautiful flower displays, visitors to Australia’s largest celebration of spring. Check out the Floriade website at www.floriadeaustralia.com
READY FOR THE WORLD
BOYS AND GIRLS TOGETHER FOR THE FUTURE CGS IS GOING CO-ED PRE-SCHOOL – YEAR 12 ENROLLING BOYS AND GIRLS NOW VISIT US AT CGS.ACT.EDU.AU/CO-ED Defence Life Ad AW.indd 1
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Australian Cap ACT children’s plan LIVING AND WORKING IN THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
A BUILDING BLOCKS APPROACH TO EDUCATION The ACT Children’s Plan is a whole of ACT government and whole of community commitment to children aged 0-12 years.
The vision of the ACT Children’s Plan is that: Canberra is a child friendly city that supports all children to reach their potential, and that they make a contribution, and share the benefits of our community Putting in place the following six building blocks will assist to build Canberra as the nations’ child friendly capital: BUILDING BLOCK 1: CHILDREN’S PARTICIPATION A child friendly city is one that recognises that children are active participants in their own lives and encourages them to influence decisions about their community and express their opinion on the city and community they want. A child friendly city provides the opportunities needed for children to participate fully in family, community and social life. Participation in civic activities provides opportunities for children and young people to learn new skills, build community networks, and express their opinions. BUILDING BLOCK 2: CHILDREN’S RIGHTS A child friendly city recognises that it is everybody’s responsibility to protect and promote children’s rights. Awareness is the first step in protecting and advancing children’s rights and promoting the rights of children. The protection of human rights is widely accepted as an essential part of a modern and just democracy. Along with basic human rights, children also have the right to special protection because of their vulnerability to exploitation and abuse. These rights have been recognised in international conventions, national and territory legislation. BUILDING BLOCK 3: ASSESSING IMPACT ON CHILDREN A child friendly city needs to be planned and developed in a way that takes into consideration the needs and best interests of children and that services and policies are developed with regard to their impact on children and their families. BUILDING BLOCK 4: MONITORING CHILDREN’S HEALTH & WELL-BEING A child-friendly city continuously monitors and responds to the changing needs of children in their community. The systematic and regular monitoring and reporting of children’s health, well-being, development and learning assists with informed decision-making and development of quality policies and services. Maximising the use of quality data to inform decision making is fundamental to child centred policy and practice. A child friendly city keeps a constant check on the state of its children.
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1 2 3 4 5 6 Opportunities for children to influence decisions about their lives and their community, and to actively participate in their communities
Regular monitoring of the state of children’s health, wellbeing, learning and development
Advocacy, promotion and protection of children’s rights
Services, programs and environment that support children’s optimal development and enhance parental, family and community capacity
BUILDING BLOCK 5: SERVICES FOR CHILDREN & FAMILIES Parents and families are central to children’s lives and provide the most powerful influence and primary source of nurturing, support, connection, security, and assistance for children. The support a family receives from their extended family and community is vital. We need to value parents and give them the support and resources they need to raise children. BUILDING BLOCK 6: GOVERNANCE A child friendly city must have a local
Processes to assess the impact of law, policy and practice on children
Effective governance mechanisms across government and community
system of governance that gives priority consideration to children’s needs and interests. Success in achieving an agenda is dependent on having appropriate infrastructure in place that can build capacity and drive that change. This infrastructure needs to include mechanisms for governance and decision-making, for coordination and networking, and for skill-development across all sectors of government and the community. Building the capacity to become a child friendly city requires permanent structures and personnel in government to support and coordinate this work.
pital Territory EDUCATION ACROSS THE ACT
ST MARY MACKILLOP COLLEGE, CANBERRA St Mary MacKillop College Canberra, formerly known as MacKillop Catholic College, is a co-educational school for Years 7 - 12 students located in the Tuggeranong Valley. The College operates under the governance of the Catholic Education Office of the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn. There are two campuses approximately five kilometres apart. Students in Years 7 - 9 are based on the Wanniassa Campus while students in Years 10 - 12 are based on the Isabella Campus. The College motto is “Faith and Courage” which reflects and honours Saint Mary MacKillop after whom the College is named. The College is open to all families who are willing to support the Catholic ethos and the educational, behavioural and uniform requirements of the College. The College is a dynamic welcoming community based on gospel values. It is a learning environment where excellence in education is valued. Members of the community are nurtured and empowered to face the future with faith and courage. The curriculum is undertaken in an environment where each person is valued and respected as an individual whose personal growth is of paramount importance. Our staff fulfil the role of teacher, mentor, carer, guide and challenger. They help to motivate students and develop in them a love of learning.
In the ACT it is compulsory for children to be enrolled in school from age 6. All students are required to participate in fulltime education until they complete Year 10, and then participate full-time in education, training or employment until completing Year 12 or equivalent, or reaching 17 years of age. STARTING SCHOOL Primary schools in the ACT offer child centred early childhood programs in preschool settings and high quality primary school education. Both short and long day sessions (to a maximum of twelve hours per week) are available in the year prior to Kindergarten. Children must be four years of age on or before 30 April to enrol in a preschool program. Children who are enrolling in an ACT Public Primary School for the first time at Kindergarten must be five years of age on or before 30 April.
HIGH SCHOOLS High school education is available from Years 7-10. ACT high schools are dynamic, innovative and supportive learning communities that provide challenging education programs and pastoral care. At the completion of Year 10 students in the Australian Capital Territory may proceed to a secondary college. Enrolment for secondary colleges commences in September of each year. There is a very high retention rate in the ACT from Year 10 to Years 11 and 12 as secondary colleges have proved to be effective in preparing young people for both work and further education. SENIOR SECONDARY COLLEGES The ACT’s senior secondary colleges cater for students in Years 11 & 12. The ACT college system sets a national standard in senior secondary education and includes tertiary pre-entry curriculum from the ANU and the University of Canberra.
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New South Wa LIVING AND WORKING IN NEW SOUTH WALES
Sydney As the most multicultural city in the Asia Pacific, Sydney’s cultural diversity has produced a society that is creative, open and friendly. Sydney offers a world class city environment along with great facilities for families, excellent public transport and the most spectacular harbour in the world. Sydney is Australia’s oldest and biggest city and is the gateway to Australia, set on one of the world’s most stunning harbours, which extends either side in a golden chain of easy-toreach, inner-city beaches Sydney’s laid-back outdoor lifestyle and physical allure make it one of the world’s easiest and most pleasant cities to visit. All of its attributes lie within easy reach of the city centre. Sydneysiders are famously obsessed by the outdoors and why not, with such a beautiful harbour, endless beaches and coastal walks. The opportunities afforded by Sydney’s natural landscape and climate means access to its harbour and beaches are easy with out-of-theordinary adventures commonplace. Sydney’s harbour is its natural playground, the dominant factor in so much of what the city has to offer.
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The city has a wide-ranging cultural life, dynamic food scene and vibrant cityscape of outstanding contemporary and colonial architecture. Iconic beaches and five major national parks deliver unforgettable experiences. Circular Quay is the stepping-off point for most attractions based around the harbour. The quay is a vibrant, bustling place with ferries leaving every few minutes to different parts of the harbour. On the southern side of Circular Quay is a walkway that leads to the Sydney Opera House while on the northern side, a short walk takes you to the Harbour Bridge and The Rocks, one of the oldest, most attractive and most interesting parts of Sydney.
LUNA PARK Entry to Luna Park is FREE! So come on down and enjoy the carnival atmosphere and spectacular views without spending a cent! If you want to enjoy the rides, select from a variety of passes, each designed to give you the maximum amount of fun and value for your budget. Soak up the atmosphere and the magnificent views while the kids enjoy the rides and games, or have a go yourself and relive your childhood. SYDNEY HARBOUR Sydney is the city to set your pulse racing, with the harbour at its heart. Catch a ferry, take a harbour cruise or feel the wind in your sails on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours in the world. Kayaking in the quieter parts of the harbour is relaxing while a high-speed jet boat trip is pure fun. SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE One of the busiest performing arts centres in the world, the Opera House offers a diversity of performances that are challenging, dynamic, engaging and entertaining. The Opera House is on every visitor’s ‘must do’ list.
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DEFENCE FORCES IN NSW
New South Wales is home to a number of Defence units of all three Services. Most units are based around the greater Sydney and Newcastle areas with others at Singleton, Wagga and Jervis Bay. NAVY Located at Potts Point, Sydney Fleet Headquarters (FHQ) is adjacent to the Garden Island Dockyard and Fleet Base East on the southern shore of Sydney Harbour. The Headquarters supports maritime operations and is organised functionally, with major divisions for operations planning, command/ control communications and intelligence, as well as logistic and administration support. HMAS KUTTABUL provides administrative, training and logistics support to Defence personnel, both uniformed and civilian employed within the Sydney area. HMAS Penguin’s primary role is to provide trained personnel to the Fleet and it is the home of the RAN Diving School, the RAN Hydrographic School and the Medical Training School. HMAS WATERHEN is the parent establishment for Australia ‘s Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Force, Clearance Diving Team One and a variety of Support Craft. HMAS WATSON is the premier RAN maritime warfare training establishment. It is the home of the Training Authority Maritime Warfare and is part of the Navy Systems Command. The Royal Australian Naval College (RANC)
is based beside picturesque Jervis Bay on the south coast of New South Wales and is responsible for training Navy’s future leaders. HMAS Creswell is located on the southwestern shores of Jervis Bay. Creswell consists of the RAN College and four other departments. HMAS ALBATROSS at Nowra is home of the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Air Arm. It is the largest operational Naval establishment and the Navy’s only Air Station. ARMY The Sydney region is home to the Land Command Headquarters, HQ Logistics Support Force, HQ Force Support Group, with many units located at historic Victoria Barracks on Oxford Street, and at Randwick. Holsworthy Barracks is the largest Army facility in NSW. Holsworthy is home to growing Special Forces presence including Headquarters Special Operations Command, 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (Commando), the Incident Response Regiment, the Special Operations Combat Services Support Company. Lone Pine Barracks at Singleton is the home of the School of Infantry and the Special Forces Training Centre. Kapooka at Wagga is the home of the Army Recruit Training Centre. AIR FORCE RAAF Base Richmond is the home of Air Lift Group and is the hub of the Air Force in New South Wales. Aircraft operating from RAAF Richmond include the C-130J operated by No 37 Squadron. RAAF Base Williamtown 30 kilometres north of Newcastle is the primary fighter base for the Royal Australian Air Force, and home to most of the F/A-18A/B Hornet and BAE Hawk fighters. The base is headquarters to Air Combat Group, which commands Australia’s front line fighter and strike aircraft. RAAF Base Glenbrook, in the foothills of the Blue Mountains is home to Headquarters Air Command and Combat Support Unit. RAAF Base Wagga Wagga is home to the RAAF School of Management and Training Technology trade training schools and the No 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU). For more information on Defence establishments go to defence.gov.au
Save the date! There’s no better place to welcome the new year than in Sydney - the New Year’s Eve Capital of the World. The internationally-loved event on Sydney Harbour brings in more than 1.5 million spectators and is watched by more than one billion viewers across the world. Exuberant, exciting and forever effervescent - the best time to experience Sydney is in January, when the city is in full celebratory mode. Sydney Festival presents the biggest and best of the world’s performing and visual arts, all coming together in an avalanche of artistic activity. It’s the best of Sydney in a single evening: singing, sunsets and sparkling wine, in perfect harmony. In March-April 2016, Handa Opera in Sydney Harbour presents Turandot: an exotic fantasy of a death-marked love told with the city skyline reflected in your glass, featuring the famous aria ‘Nessun Dorma. Sydney Mardi Gras in late February is the world’s most joyous and spectacular celebration of LGBTQI pride. Sydney Mardi Gras attracts over 20,000 interstate and international visitors each year. For more information visit www.sydney.com
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New South Wa Education LIVING AND WORKING IN NEW SOUTH WALES
ACROSS NEW SOUTH WALES
Schooling in New South Wales follows a curriculum based on stages of learning. Each stage is approximately equivalent to two school years as students move from Early Stage 1 in Kindergarten through to Stage 6 in Years 11 and 12. STARTING SCHOOL Starting school is an important step in a young child’s life. Children develop at different rates and learn skills in different ways. It is the school’s task to respond to the needs, learning styles and rates of progress of individual students. Specialist advice and support is available to parents/caregivers of children with disabilities to help them access appropriate educational services. Talk to the school as early as possible about these services. PRESCHOOL Preschools provide educational programs for children one year prior to enrolment in Kindergarten. A child may be eligible for enrolment in preschool from the beginning of the school year if they turn four years on or before 31 July that year. Some preschools offer a half day session, with children attending either five mornings or five afternoons per week. Other preschools provide full day attendance for 2, 3 or 5 days per week. The preschool program is designed to stimulate children’s thinking, communicating, investigating, exploring and problem solving skills. The program includes play-based activities that help children learn how to interact positively with other children and to recognise and accept their own feelings and those of others. The program also supports the development of early language, literacy and numeracy skills. KINDERGARTEN TO YEAR 6 Children may enter kindergarten at the beginning of the school year in NSW government schools if they turn five on or before 31 July in that year. By law, all children must start school by their sixth birthday. Kindergarten to Year 6 focuses on the key learning areas of English, Mathematics, Science
& Technology, Human Society, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, Creative Arts and Languages. PREPARING FOR HIGH SCHOOL NSW students enter high school in Year 7. Once you have determined which high school you would like your child to attend, the next step is to complete an expression of interest. If your child is already attending year 6 in a public primary school you will receive this form during late term 1. SCHOOL LEAVING AGE Students must complete Year 10 (or its equivalent), then remain in approved education or training or a combination of education and paid work until the age of 17. STARTING YEAR 11 Students begin to prepare for their HSC in
Year 11 so it’s important to get settled into a good study routine at the beginning of the year. Study requirements will increase markedly in Year 11 and more so in Year 12. There are two types of HSC courses students can study: Board Developed courses which are set and examined externally, and which may contribute to the calculation of a Universities Admission Index (UAI), and Board Endorsed courses which are developed by schools, TAFE or universities, which count towards HSC but do not count towards the calculation of the UAI. The subjects you take may influence an employer to select you for a particular position. Students will receive a nationally recognised qualification when they successfully complete their course. Some VET courses are studied at school whilst others can be studied at TAFE.
Prep to Year 12
A caring learning environment
Offering a sound Christ-centred education which encourages the fullest possible development of the spiritual, academic, physical and social characteristics of each child.
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HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH HSC STUDY
It is not just students who can find the HSC year a very stressful and difficult time. Family members also need support; they want to help but are often fearful of appearing to interfere. This is frequently the year during which, in addition to sitting for the HSC, Year 12 students may: lose interest in school, have no plans for after the HSC, develop an intense relationship with a boyfriend or girlfriend, gain a driver’s licence, experiment with legal or illegal drugs, have a parttime job, be a member of a sporting team, develop an eating disorder or suffer from depression. All these are complications which can cause parents and caregivers additional concern. You are not alone. NSW HSC online provides information on the people and agencies that you can contact for help with personal, academic and career issues. The most obvious forms of support parents can offer are the practical, physical things: • Provide a good place to study. Ideally it should be quiet, a comfortable temperature, with good ventilation, good lighting, adequate desk or table space and free from distractions such as TV, noise, telephone, conversations, little brothers and sisters. • Provide good, balanced meals. Encourage sensible levels of sleep and some form of regular exercise. Encourage moderation in late night parties and alcohol consumption. Less obvious but of equally important are the things you can do to provide a positive and understanding emotional environment: • Be supportive and encouraging. Encourage confidence by reassuring them. If you have doubts, keep them to yourself. • Highlight strengths and successes. Encourage your child not to dwell on failures. Reframe failures as “mistakes” and encourage them to see mistakes as something we can learn from.
• • • •
Appreciate that most students will be experiencing quite a high level of stress, frequently without any obvious indicators. Many fear that they might let their family down or that they will not be able to match the performance of siblings or relatives. There are also many pressures other than examination pressures. Many students experience a sense of impending departure: leaving home, leaving lifelong friends, the prospect of starting university. Appreciate that it is normal for people under pressure to become supersensitive and explosive from time to time. Family members are usually the first targets. Try not to overreact to such outbursts. Encourage a reasonable balance between work and leisure. Planned leisure periods are an essential component of a good study program. An occasional total escape for a few days may also be excellent therapy for a student who is feeling excessively stressed. Encourage and allow your child to be as independent as you can possibly stand. The more independent he or she can be in meeting the demands of Year 12, the better prepared he or she will be to succeed at a tertiary level or in the workforce.
Case Study Success at TAFE
NSW Riverina Institute offers a huge range of nationally recognised courses, right where you live. It’s the perfect place to take the next step towards your dream career, develop your skills and enhance your employment opportunities. It’s easy to study with us; we’re local, we’re online, and we want you to succeed. Training through Riverina Institute means accessing an extensive support service, which assists all students through their entire course of study with career counselling, employability skills training, study support and a range of other support services. Our customised training is nationally recognised and highly flexible to fit individual needs. Additionally, our training solutions may include a combination of: Short courses, Courses tailored to your particular business, Programs delivered at your workplace using your equipment, and Recognition for the skills that staff have already acquired. Tiarna Robertson, Riverina Institute’s Outstanding Student of the Year for 2014 sums it up. “I loved my 2 years at TAFE. The teachers and staff I dealt with every week were amazing. Meeting new people was fantastic. The knowledge and skills I learnt was above and beyond. I had a wonderful experience and I cannot thank TAFE enough for building my career for me”. “You will never regret signing up for a TAFE course, all you need is a dream, determination and a goal and you can achieve anything you want”.
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Victoria LIVING AND WORKING IN VICTORIA
Melbourne
Hugging the tip of the Australian east coast, Victoria is Australia’s second-smallest state, covering 227,600 sq kms - roughly the size of the British Isles. Victoria’s capital, Melbourne, sits on the Yarra River and around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. Lauded for its sense of style and elegance, Melbourne boasts glamorous festivals and events, Australia’s best shopping, a lively passion for eating and drinking, and a flourishing interest in the arts.
CITY VIBE NATIONAL GALLERY OF VICTORIA The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), founded in 1861, is the oldest public art museum in Australia. The Gallery operates across two sites: NGV International, located on St Kilda Road in the heart of the Melbourne Arts Precinct, and The Ian Potter Centre NGV Australia, located at Federation Square. The NGV currently holds over 70,000 works of art.
MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is Australia’s largest, oldest and most popular sporting venue. The MCG has hosted countless international cricket matches, AFL Grand Finals, the 1956 Olympic Games and 2006 Commonwealth Games. It will also host the final of ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. The stadium houses the National Sports Museum, which includes priceless pieces of memorabilia in Australian sporting history. ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS Visit Melbourne’s inner-city oasis. More than 10,000 plant species from around the world
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are presented in a kaleidoscope of colour and texture. Sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees are home to amazing wildlife.
TWELVE APOSTLES & GREAT OCEAN RD Travel along the Great Ocean Road to view the Twelve Apostles. Giant rock stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean and are the central feature of the rugged Port Campbell National Park. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly impressive views as the Twelve Apostles change colour from dark and foreboding in shadow to brilliant sandy yellow under a full sun.
MELBOURNE SHOPPING Melbourne is known worldwide for its shopping in elegant surroundings and offering a range of fashion to suit any taste. Large department stores coexist with a multitude of specialty shops in stylish arcades with great history. Shopping in Melbourne is an unmatched experience, especially combined with coffee or lunch with friends for a great day out.
Education ACROSS VICTORIA
Victorian government schools are part of a strong and vibrant education system providing every child with the opportunity to thrive, learn and grow. In Victoria, most children attend primary school from Prep to Year 6, and secondary school from Year 7 to Year 12. STARTING KINDERGARTEN Starting kindergarten is an important milestone in the lives of both you and your child. To be eligible to enrol in a funded kindergarten program, your child must be at least four years old by 30 April of the year they are starting. PRIMARY SCHOOL - PREP TO YEAR 4 Children must be five years of age or older by 30 April of the year they start school. During the first years of learning, teachers aim to create a safe, happy environment where students are valued, praised, and encouraged. In Prep to Year 4, students are encouraged to make sense of the world around them through reallife experiences. The Prep to Year 4 curriculum emphasises the importance of reading, writing, spelling, essential maths and problem solving skills. THE MIDDLE YEARS - YEAR 5 TO 8 This period of schooling, referred to as the middle years, coincides with early adolescence. Schools have strategies in place for Years 5 to 8 to ensure students are challenged and their literacy and numeracy skills continue to
Defence
The Defence presence in Victoria has reduced in recent years, however the State remains a vital command, administration, training and Defence industry location. NAVY HMAS Cerberus The primary role of HMAS Cerberus is Navy personnel training. With the establishment of four tri-Service schools, this role has been extended to training Army, Navy and Air Force personnel. Despite change, the charm of HMAS Cerberus remains. Its historic presence, heritage buildings, chapels, sports facilities and gardens create a pleasant training environment. ARMY The regular Australian Army presence in Victoria is concentrated at Simpson Barracks in Watsonia, Melbourne home to: the Royal Australian Signals; the famous Puckapunyal training area; and the Albury-Wodonga Military Area, which includes the key support bases at Bandiana and Bonegillia with the Army Logistics Training Centre (ALTC). Puckapunyal is the home of the Land Warfare Development Centre (LWDC), Combat Arms Training Centre (CATC), including the School of Armour and School
grow. Middle years programs also support the development of relationships between primary schools and secondary schools, to ease the transition of students between the two.
SECONDARY SCHOOL ENROLMENT During the first half of your child’s Year 6, you will be asked to nominate the secondary school your child will attend in Year 7. Parents of Year 6 students will be asked to complete enrolment forms for the secondary school of their choice early in the year. As part of the transition from Year 6 to Year 7, students participate in an orientation day. This may include a school tour, meeting fellow students and teachers, and taking part in special lessons and activities.
YEARS 9 TO 10 In Year 9 students are beginning to see their future as adults. They are experiencing profound physical, social, emotional and intellectual development changes. Students in this stage often pass the age of compulsory attendance at school. They have a growing interest in the pathways they intend to pursue. YEARS 10 TO 12 In Years 10 to 12 students continue exploring pathways for the future to equip them for tertiary education or training and employment. VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education) provides pathways to further study at university, TAFE and the world of work. VCAL (Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning) - is a hands-on option for Years 11 and 12 students, offering practical work-related experience. Within VCAL students can undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship. LEAVING SCHOOL BEFORE END OF YEAR 12 Although there a host of benefits to completing Year 12, some students may feel that they are ready to move on from school before the end of Year 12, and who prefer to undertake an educational or training program provided by a TAFE institute or other registered training organisation. The school careers coordinator is best equipped to help a student explore the options and pathways open to him or her.
IN VICTORIA of Artillery and the Distribution Division. AIR FORCE RAAF Base East Sale The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base East Sale, in Victoria’s Gippsland region, is the location of several specialist training schools including Central Flying School, Air Training Wing, Schools of Officers’ Training (OTS), Air Traffic Control, Aviation Warfare and Photographic Training Flight. RAAF Base East Sale is probably best known as home to the Roulettes aerobatic display team from Central Flying School. It is now also the location of Officer Training School. RAAF Base Williams The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base Williams comprises two bases 20kms south-west of Melbourne at Laverton and Point Cook. Each has a proud place in Australia’s military aviation history, Point Cook as the birthplace of the Air Force and oldest continuallyoperating military airfield in the world, and Laverton as the Air Force’s third base. The RAAF Museum is housed at Point Cook and the RAAF Central Band work from Laverton. The two bases were merged into one in 1999 and the main function of the two bases now is training.
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Tasmania Hobart LIVING AND WORKING IN TASMANIA
Separated from mainland Australia by the 240 km stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania is a land apart – a place of wild and beautiful landscapes; friendly, welcoming people; a pleasant, temperate climate; a rich history; and a relaxed island lifestyle.
Tasmania has an enviable lifestyle and a diverse natural environment ranging from temperate rainforest and mountains on the west coast to sandy beaches on the east coast. The capital Hobart, and the northern centre of Launceston, have all the services and facilities of thriving modern cities combined with easy access to beaches, rivers, lakes and national parks.
Defence
IN TASMANIA Major Defence facilities in Tasmania are located at Anglesea Barracks in Hobart, Derwent Barracks at Dowsing Point and Paterson Barracks in Launceston. The facilities are shared by Army, Navy and Air Force. Anglesea Barracks is the Headquarters for Defence in Tasmania, with Army, Navy and Air Force headquarters all located within the barracks. 16 Field Battery, an Army Reserve Field Artillery Battery, is the only artillery unit in Tasmania. It is the oldest continually serving battery within the Royal Australian Artillery, with its headquarters located at Paterson Barracks, Launceston, Tasmania and a depot also located at Derwent Barracks, Glenorchy, Tasmania.
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CITY VIBE SALAMANCA PLACE Salamanca Place is Hobart’s favourite hang out. It’s where the hip meets the homespun and everything in between. Salamanca is lined with a long row of simple Georgian sandstone warehouses built in the 1830s. These mellow north-facing buildings once stored grain, wool, whale oil, apples and imported goods from around the world. Nowadays, you can wander under the heavy stone arches to find craft and design shops, jewellers, coffee shops, restaurants, the Peacock Theatre, subterranean bookshops, outdoor gear, and fashion boutiques or climb the stairs to the Salamanca Arts Centre. Each Saturday at the Salamanca Markets you can buy anything from a handmade wooden toy or a hand-spun, hand-knitted sweater to fresh fruit and vegetables or a 50-year-old china plate. Across the road there are green lawns and park benches shaded by plane trees that twinkle with lights in the evenings. Every Friday night from 5.30 to 7.30pm, the Salamanca Arts Centre Courtyard rocks to the sounds of Rektango. The band sets every toe tapping as they play gypsy, jazz and swing music. Mulled wine, beer and soft drinks to buy and when the months are cooler you can keep warm around winter braziers.
PORT ARTHUR HISTORIC SITE Just under an hour’s drive from Hobart, Port Arthur is the site of one of the oldest convict settlements in Australia. Established initially as a timber station in 1830, it quickly grew in importance within the penal system of the colonies. During its time, Port Arthur housed over 1200 prisoners, 128 guards and their families, and supported an infrastructure made up of penitentiary, prison, hospital, school, and industries of shipbuilding, shoemaking, smithing, brickmaking, and timber and flour mills. The last convict was shipped out in 1877.
Education
ACROSS TASMANIA Government schools in Tasmania provide three levels of education: Kindergarten -Year 6, High School Years 7-10 and Senior Secondary Years 11-12. STARTING SCHOOL AGE A child may start kindergarten at the age of four provided their birthday was on or before 1 January in the year they start. A child who has turned five on or by 1 January in any year must start school in that year. LEAVING SCHOOL AGE Young people are required to complete the school year during which they turn 16. Young people who have completed Year 10 or have turned 16 are required to participate in further education or training for a further two years or until they have gained a certificate III vocational qualification, or until they have turned 17. Most students continue with education or training past the age of 16 by attending senior secondary college for Years 11 and 12, or enrolling in vocational education and training through a registered training organisation such as TAFE Tasmania, or an apprenticeship or traineeship. Most employers require Year 12 or higher qualification, and there are plenty of pathways to continuing education.
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Save the date! SYDNEY TO HOBART YACHT RACE Over the past 70 years, the Rolex Sydney Hobart, which starts from Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day, has become an icon of Australia’s summer sport, ranking in public interest with such national events as the Melbourne Cup horse race, the Australian Open tennis and the cricket tests between Australia and England. No regular annual yachting event in the world attracts such huge media coverage than does the start on Sydney Harbour. Tasmania’s most popular and enduring summer event, The Taste of Tasmania, returns to Hobart’s waterfront from 28 December – 3 January 2016, and it’s free to enter. The majestic River Derwent, Hobart’s historic wharves and Salamanca Place provide a stunning backdrop to this annual celebration of quality Tasmanian produce. Think Tasmanian seafood, cheeses, berries, our famous cool-climate wines and boutique beers and ciders, combined with a fabulous entertainment program and family-focused activities. We look forward to seeing you there.
DefenceLife is the only magazine that connects directly with Defence personnel and their families DefenceLife is Australia’s premier career and lifestyle magazine offering a combination of an annual print magazine, online digital edition and social media platform.
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South Australi LIVING AND WORKING IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Adelaide Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and is the fifth largest city in Australia. It is renowned for its well planned city streets with parks and gardens strategically placed throughout the city – ask the 1.1 million Adelaide residents, and they would say it is definitely a livable city. Among the Defence population, Adelaide is also known as one of the Defence capitals of Australia with a large proportion of Army, Airforce and Navy members calling it home. There are three main Army Barracks: Keswick, Warradale and Woodside, all within 40 minutes of the CBD. The Navy Headquarters are also located at Keswick Barracks and RAAF Base Edinburgh is located north of the city in the Salisbury council area. The Defence Science & Technology Organisation is also located at Salisbury adjacent to the RAAF Base, approximately 30km north of the city. Defence Housing Australia (DHA) manages over 1200 homes for Defence members and their families in the South Australian capital. Houses are located mostly in the northern part
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of the city and have first rate access to schools, transport, shopping facilities and recreational activities. They are almost exclusively freestanding, single-storey homes appropriately sized for families, averaging 400-600 sq. metres. With such a large Defence population in Adelaide, there are lots of support services for Defence families. In addition to Defence Families Australia and the Defence Community Organisation, the Woodside Defence Family Association and North East Defence Community Group offer facilities and community programs such as a Community House, Craft group, walking groups, playgroups and social clubs. WINE REGIONS Some of the most famous wine regions in the world are dotted across South Australia. You can visit nine distinct wine regions within an hour and a half of the Adelaide city centre Barossa and Eden Valley, Adelaide Plains, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, Southern Fleurieu, Currency
Creek, Langhorne Creek and Clare Valley. The Barossa Valley Just an hour’s drive from Adelaide is known throughout the world as one of Australia’s leading wine regions, boasting more than 60 wineries. Established in 1842 by immigrants from England and Germany, the region’s rich heritage is reflected in architecture, food and internationally renowned wines. The Clare Valley This valley is considered one of the most picturesque wine regions in South Australia. Less than two hours from Adelaide, the region boasts more than 40 cellar doors, most within 20 kilometres of the main town of Clare. The McLaren Vale District Just 40 minutes south of Adelaide, was born in 1839 (the first vines planted in 1838) and since that time the McLaren Vale region has become one of Australia’s premier wine-producing districts, particularly renowned for its fullbodied reds.
ia
Education
CITY VIBE ADELAIDE CENTRAL MARKET The Adelaide Central Market has been operating for 140 years, and with over 80 stalls under one roof, it is a hub of activity with traders, artisans and shoppers who share a passion for food. NATIONAL WINE CENTRE Looking over the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, the National Wine Centre is an architectural treat, but what it holds inside is the real attraction. Here you can discover winemaking from the ground up, take an interactive discovery tour and more. NORTH TERRACE North Terrace is Adelaide’s cultural boulevard. It contains many excellent examples of early Australian architecture which include the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, the University of South Australia, and Adelaide’s oldest church, the Anglican Holy Trinity Church. LINEAR PARK One of the best ways to see Adelaide is to travel the Linear Park Trail. Following the Torrens River, with bitumen trails winding through parklands, you can cycle or walk from the base of the Adelaide Hills in the west to Henley Beach in the east. ADELAIDE ZOO Get up close and personal with the animals at Adelaide Zoo. Adelaide Zoo offers a variety of behind the scenes tours.
ACROSS SA
Save the date! CLIPSAL 500 The Adelaide 500 (known for sponsorship reasons as the Clipsal 500 Adelaide or Clipsal 500, or colloquially as just Clipsal) is an annual motor racing event for V8 Supercars, held on the streets of the east end of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. First held in 1999, the event uses a shortened form of the Adelaide Street Circuit, the former Australian Grand Prix track. ADELAIDE FESTIVAL OF ARTS The Adelaide Festival of Arts, which runs from end-February 2016 until mid-March, is one of the world’s great arts events. This celebration of arts from around the world caters to worldrenowned theatre productions, an eclectic array of world-class musicians, breathtaking dance pieces and striking visual arts displays. The festival includes over 50 shows and the much-loved Adelaide Writers’ Week. To find out what’s happening in South Australia in 2016 go to: http://www.southaustralia.com
Defence IN SA
South Australia is home to a number of major Defence establishments. Facilities in the Adelaide area include the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), the Osborne construction and maintenance site for conventionally powered submarines at Port Adelaide, the Defence Technology Precinct adjacent to DSTO, and RAAF Base Edinburgh. NAVY Navy Headquarters South Australia (NHQ-SA) is located in Keswick Barracks, just on the southern outskirts of Adelaide, approximately 25 minutes’ travel from Port Adelaide and 40 minutes’ travel from the Submarine Construction Facility at Osborne. A small Naval Yard is located at the Birkenhead Naval Yard in Port Adelaide, which houses Diving Team 9. ARMY Army Headquarters South Australia is currently located at Keswick Barracks, with military establishments at Hampstead and Warradale. The 16th Air Land Regiment is located at Woodside Barracks in the Adelaide Hills, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Adelaide city. South Australia has a large
RECEPTION TO YEAR 12 The school year begins in late January, divided into four terms of approximately ten weeks. Most children usually attend four terms of preschool, then begin school in Reception when they are five. Reception is the name given to the first year of schooling. Students attend Primary school from Reception to Year 7, and then Secondary school from Years 8 to 12. SACE Years 10-12 students study towards the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE): Stage 1 that most students do in Year 11, and Stage 2 to be completed in Year 12. Each subject successfully completed earns credits towards the SACE, with a minimum of 200 credits required for students to gain the certificate. The Personal Learning Plan is offered by most schools in Year 10. In addition, students must complete a full year of English subjects and a semester of Maths in Stage 1. During Stage 2 students study four fullyear subjects in addition to the compulsory Research Project subject. For compulsory requirements, students need to gain a grade C or better at Stage 1 and a grade C- or better at Stage 2. The compulsory requirements are Personal Learning Plan (10 credits); Literacy - at least 20 credits from English subjects or courses; Numeracy - at least 10 credits from mathematics subjects or courses; Research Project - an in-depth major project (10 credits); Other Stage 2 subjects totalling at least 60 credits. The remaining 90 credits can be gained through additional Stage 1 or Stage 2 subjects or Board-recognised courses such as VET or community learning.
Learn a Language in 2016 Enquire now! Army contingent with units all over the state including 7RAR located at RAAF Base Edinburgh. AIR FORCE The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base Edinburgh – along with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) – is located on the site of the Salisbury wartime munitions factory. The RAAF Base today consists of operational squadrons and support units. It is primarily home to 92 Wing’s AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft that conduct surveillance operations throughout Australia’s airspace, Aerospace Operational Support Group that conducts research and development.
A range of languages Reception – Year 12 After school hours in Metropolitan Adelaide
T: 08 8301 4800
dl.1802.admin@schools.sa.edu.au
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Western Austra LIVING AND WORKING IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Perth
The big variety of landscapes and climates in Western Australia means there is always plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect year-round destination.
Western Australia is a land blessed with spectacular diversity where the deep reds of ancient interior rock formations contrast with the sparkling blue of the Indian and Southern Oceans and the lush greenery of the stunning southern regions. The capital, Perth, is Australia’s western gateway. The city offers an easy-going lifestyle while the beautiful Swan River and inner-city parks add to the relaxed, natural feel. Dualuse paths make it easy to walk or ride a circuit around the river. Water sports enthusiasts can sail, windsurf or canoe on safe waters. Perth is a very safe, liveable, vibrant city with a diverse community. Whether a tourist or resident, there are a wide range of events, attractions and cultural activities to experience. The weather is fantastic, the beaches are clean and uncrowded, the spring wildflowers are stunning, and the city itself is located in a postcard perfect setting.
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MARGARET RIVER With many world-class wineries and awardwinning restaurants, Margaret River is one of Western Australia’s most famous food and wine regions. Tour the cellar doors and taste local brews at the boutique breweries. Here you can eat fresh crayfish straight from the ocean or dine on the local organic beef and truffles. Visit the farmer’s markets and try the artisan cheeses. Indulge in local handmade chocolates and delicious fudge. When you’ve finished your culinary journey, take time to explore Western Australia’s Great South West. In a few hours you can go from wineries to stunning beaches with world-class surf breaks, snorkelling and diving or walk amongst ancient forests and caves. With more than 120 wine producers in the region, Margaret River produces some of Australia’s best cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, semillon, sauvignon blanc, merlot and shiraz wines.
OUTBACK The Western Australian outback is the largest expanse of outback in the country, with a mindblowing diversity of landscapes and outback adventures. This vast and ancient land has been two billion years in the making. It’s here that Mother Nature has sculpted some of the world’s most magnificent rock formations, from the Pinnacles to the Bungle Bungle Range. Switch off your mobiles, tablets and laptops and head north into the heart of the last true wilderness area on Earth, the Kimberley, for a real outback adventure. Venture east from Perth, to the gold rush hub of Kalgoorlie and discover the real Wild West of Australia. It’s a place of striking contrasts where grand colonial architecture and mammoth modern mining operations give way to wide-open desert landscapes, dotted with shimmering salt lakes and gold rush ghost towns.
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FREMANTLE Fremantle is recognised as one of the bestpreserved Victorian-era port cities in the world and is one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Cities to visit in 2016. The city is undergoing a massive transformation with revived public spaces, hotels, restaurants, small bars, and shopping precincts but continues to retain all the things that make it special. Enjoy a coffee along the ‘Cappuccino Strip’, potter through the Fremantle Markets, try street food at one of the outdoor food markets, hop on board an historic tram ride, go underground on the fascinating Fremantle Prison Tunnel tour or just feast on the local flavours and indie vibe at the many restaurants and cafés and sample boutique beer at one of the great micro breweries. There’s just so much to do in “Freeo” you won’t know where to start.
Defence IN WA
Defence in Western Australia is located mainly in the populated southwest of the State with an increasing presence around the Pilbara and North West Shelf. Defence facilities in Western Australia are strategically important to Australia’s interests, and their remoteness from the main Defence Force bases on Australia’s east coast means that these bases need to be self reliant. NAVY HMAS Stirling is located at Garden Island, which has an area of approximately 1,270 hectares. The naval base provides support to Western Australian home-ported units and to ships and submarines visiting the area. Key members of the Defence establishment in Stirling include the Headquarters of the Australian Submarine Squadron; Submarine Training and Systems Centre; the Australian Clearance Diving Team 4; and the ANZAC and Collins Class sustainment offices. ARMY The only ARA unit in Western Australia is the elite Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) located at Campbell Barracks, Swanbourne in Perth’s beachside western suburbs. Service in SASR requires the highest commitment of personnel to pass the gruelling ‘selection’ course, followed by intensive, specialised training in Special Forces roles. Army Reserve units include the 13th Brigade and Regional Force Surveillance Units (RFSU). Headquarters 13th Brigade is located at
Irwin Barracks, Karrakatta, situated between Fremantle and Perth. AIR FORCE The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base Pearce is 35kms north of Perth. It is the only operational Air Force base in the west and is primarily home to 2 Flying Training School and 79 Squadron. RAAF Base Pearce is also home to The Republic of Singapore’s 130 Squadron. The RAAF maintains RAAF Bases Learmonth and Curtin (near Derby) as bare bases ready to be activated when needed.
Education IN WA
KINDERGARTEN Although attendance at kindergarten is not compulsory most children attend because parents understand that it helps give their child the best start to school. Children may start in kindergarten if he or she turns four years old by 30 June in that year. Kindergarten is part-time, offering 15 hours each week. PRE-PRIMARY Children who are turning five years old by 30 June can start Pre-primary at the beginning of that year. Pre-primary is the first compulsory year of schooling and your child will attend five full days a week. Children usually attend the school closest to where they live. Most schools start between 8.30am and 9.00am and finish between 2.30pm and 3.00pm. YEARS 1 TO 7 Primary school starts in Year 1. Students must turn six years of age by June 30 of the year they start Year 1. In the early years of primary school the main focus is on literacy and numeracy so that students learn to read and write, and understand mathematics. Students also develop knowledge and skills in science and technology through programs which build on their natural curiosity and inquiring minds. SECONDARY Secondary school starts at Year 7 with most children beginning during the year they turn 12. The school leaving age is 17 years. Students in Year 11 and 12 can start an apprenticeship or traineeship while still at school. Studying for the Western Australia Certificate of Education can be combined with training and work. There are three study options: allowing the student to try out different jobs in an industry they are interested in which can progress to an apprenticeship; completing a traineeship qualification while still at school; or starting apprenticeship training on a part-time basis at school which can be continued full-time after leaving school.
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Looking forward LOOKING FORWARD
IS IT TIME TO STAY, OR TIME TO PLAN TO GO?
PUBLISHER’S DISCLAIMER In Looking Forward we publish information from a range of sources, as a general guide for people to take action appropriate to their individual situation. The views are not those of the Department of Defence and we advise everyone to consult with relevant Service authorities on exact benefits and conditions before taking any action. Independent advice on business and financial management is also advisable before making any decisions, financial or otherwise. That said, we hope the articles provide valuable information for those with the ambition to succeed – and we wish you every success with your chosen career path and eventual resettlement into civilian life, whenever that may occur. John Armstrong, Editor Photos: Courtesy Department of Defence
A career in the Australian Defence Force can be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life, with the excitement and satisfaction of being well trained and engaging in adventurous pursuits unique to the ADF, but eventually everyone needs to plan to move on – into ‘civvy’ street. Unfortunately, few equivalent jobs in the civilian sector offer opportunities ranging from basic employment roles through to technology based assignments, with the prospect of deploying overseas on combat related missions, peace-keeping and security related roles, so the transition into the civilian world can be challenging. Career choices within the ADF are many, with opportunities to advance through the ranks and across various career streams. There are also opportunities to learn a trade, undertake tertiary level training and generally qualify for most professional pursuits. So the question is whether remaining in the Defence Force is a better option, at least until you are better prepared for the move. Eventually, every member of the ADF will transition to a new working and family life in the civilian community. This may involve a move into the Defence Reserves, Defence Industry, starting a totally new career, establishing an own business, or just kicking back in retirement. Planning and informed
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action can enable such transition to occur as seamlessly as practicable while maximising your career and personal advantages.
There’s little doubt that effective planning and action during one’s career in the Defence Forces pays off when advancing through your military career, and when that day of separation finally arrives you want to be well prepared for what lies ahead. It is this planning leading to productive action that is vitally important. In any industry, including the Defence Forces, there’s always a vexed question for employers: what if I train them and they go… but what if I don’t train them and they decide to stay? Similarly, Defence personnel need to ask themselves: what if I plan to go and I stay… but what if I plan to stay, and I have to go? The former case enables individuals more choices, as they have planned for the inevitable but are also well prepared for the present. The latter may find an unplanned transition confronting and have a poor outcome. There’s little doubt that those who make the most of their current career while planning and preparing for their next career are inevitably the most successful.
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JOB CHANGE FOR career
In the old days, well not that long ago, people entering the workforce thought in terms of a main career, staying with one company and gaining promotions along the way, only changing jobs when significant events encouraged a change – and that was certainly the situation within the Australian Defence Force. But times change, with frequent job and career changes becoming the norm as individuals seek various paths, and jobs, along the way to achieving career and life goals. Factors contributing to this change cannot be categorised into Baby Boomer, Generation X and Y stereotypes but rather to a combination of different attitudes towards work that aim to achieve a balance between lifestyle and career. Technological advances changing the nature of work can also influence career paths, as do the higher aspirations of employees for career advancement and remuneration. Generation Y, and younger, actively seek changes in employment to achieve career goals. With many jobs within the Defence Forces having a strong technological base the prospects for soldiers, sailors and airmen/ airwomen when they do leave the ADF are bright – provided their skills and experience align with civilian requirements. CAREER CHOICES The Australian Defence Force is certainly not insulated from these career motivations, and it has identified recruitment and retention of skilled people as a critical factor in meeting its strategic capability development goals. With the ADF actively competing in the human resource marketplace Defence Force personnel now have more options to their career path than ever before, they need to make more decisions about their career directions to meet their current and future work/lifestyle objectives. It means that ADF personnel need to be more proactive in their careers within the Defence Force to enable choices while in the Services, and when they finally separate. CASE STUDIES ADF Member A joined as a 20-year-old recruit, entering the Army as a gunner, spending most of his career in field regiments and staff positions. He progresses through the ranks to Senior NCO level but he doesn’t undertake any civilian-related training or further his academic qualifications. He decides to separate from the Army as a warrant officer after 22 years because of family commitments. ADF Member B also joined as a 20-year-old recruit, entering the Army as an infantry soldier. After a few years in the Army he realises that career advancement would enable choices in the direction of his Army career. In addition to mandatory Service courses he begins external study with a view to tertiary qualifications, completing these studies in two years. At age 25 with five years service and corporal rank he is accepted into university to study engineering. As he is undertaking studies that are complementary to his Army job he is given financial assistance to continue
his studies. In his second year he applies for a commission and is successful. After completing officer training he focuses on his degree and obtains a Bachelor in Engineering at age 30. He embarks on a new career as an Army officer. He progresses through the officer ranks and reaches lieutenant colonel rank at age 42, and decides to embark on a new career in the civilian sector. Both men entered the Army on equal terms and had equal opportunities during their Army careers. The questions are: which ADF member progressed his military career best, will find transition into a career in civilian industry easier, has choices as to his future, and is able to negotiate a job/remuneration package that provides rewards for relevant experience and qualifications? Not only that, which member has more options during his Service career to change to an equivalent civilian occupation should he decide to do so? WORK AND LIFESTYLE From a work/lifestyle perspective the challenge for the ADF in recruiting and retaining people has moved beyond traditional thinking of ‘a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work’ to a more holistic approach: providing a career path that doesn’t necessarily lock people into a Defence Force career, recognising that career change is inevitable, and may be frequent. A worthwhile objective may be to evolve HR policy that allows for several careers within the Defence sector encompassing the Defence forces, Defence industry, the Defence civilian workforce and the Defence Reserves – with the opportunity to move between workforces. The aim would be to increase the number of experienced people being retained within the Defence sector – military and allied-military. Understanding why there is a need for transition is important to anyone’s decisionmaking process. An explanation for transition can be found in the six life roles (relationships with self and with work, friends, community, partner and family). Life roles go through cycles of initiation, adaptation, reassessment, and reconciliation – and an individual could be at a different stage in each role simultaneously. Any conflict between two or more of these role cycles could spur the process of career change. An additional factor is that career change has
options become more socially acceptable, as personal fulfilment is more highly valued. Career decision-making is therefore seen as a series of continuous choices across one’s life span, not a once-and-for-all event. Thus, careers may be viewed as a sequence of life roles, with changes triggered by factors ranging from the ‘anticipated’ (marriage and children) to the ‘unanticipated’ (illness, divorce or layoff) and to ‘non-events’ (marriage or a promotion that did not occur). People also seek change if their original aspirations are not met, conflict with other life roles, or changes to the career itself. Longer life expectancy, changing views of retirement, and economic necessity are other factors. These new ways of looking at life/career cycles and the transition process suggest new approaches for those contemplating career change. The search for a new career involves not only matching the person to the work, but also fitting the ‘occupational career’ into the ‘life career’. TRANSITION CONSIDERATIONS People contemplating transition should assess themselves (their personal response to change), their situation (changes in roles, relationships, routines, assumptions), their support structure (does it exist and will it be disrupted by transition), and strategies (taking action to change the situation, change its meaning, or change oneself). People may also need to consider: psychological, marital, and family counselling; assessing interests, values, obtaining detailed information about career options; learning about educational and training opportunities; and identifying and overcoming resource barriers such as financial and family needs. It is this consideration of all factors, not just immediate pressures, that maximizes the prospects of successful transition through the phases in one’s life. Change is inevitable, so a clear awareness of goals is vital in managing that change. A significant difficulty in decision-making about career transition is making distinctions between jobs, work, and careers; and recognizing that transitions are an inevitable part of life and a continual challenge to redefining one’s self.
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Looking forward risk management LOOKING FORWARD
SOUND INVESTING REQUIRES
The stock market turmoil connected to the Global Financial Crisis, and the subsequent effects on the world economy have taught us that investment strategies involve degrees of risk.
Risk may be with the actual investments, the strategy applied, or simply the prevailing investment climate. Experience in the US and in Europe with investments known as ‘Derivatives’ shows that the degree of risk and the ownership of that risk is not always known to the investor because of the practice of on-selling securities. Nevertheless, done properly, perhaps prudently, investing can be an both an effective long-term wealth creation strategy, enabling growth in the investment cash-in value. The advantage of a long term investment strategy is that investors can ride out the downturns and wait until things will get better. A short-term strategy without risk strategies in place can mean heavy losses when the investments have to be cashed in. This is particularly so when investors chase higher and higher returns, with commensurately higher and higher risk. Most analyses show that long-term strategies employing risk management practices always beat the ‘get rich quick’ fad schemes. Clear evidence for this lies in the Global Financial Crisis and subsequent downturns during which many people speculated in a rising pre-GFC market only to see the value of their investment fall dramatically without enough warning to divest themselves of short-term securities. Worst case is when people borrow money to invest, and when the investment becomes a fraction of its bought value the lending institution calls in the loan, leaving the investor out on a financial limb. The question is whether your investment decisions will suit your future goals, circumstances and lifestyle? UNDERSTANDING RISK Most people think of ‘risk’ as the risk of shortterm capital loss but there are a number of other risk factors: • will your savings buy as much in the future (at future prices) as they do today? • will you have enough money for your intended lifestyle in retirement? • will you have timely access to your funds? Investors who take the super-safe option of keeping their money in a bank account or a capital guaranteed option are also exposed to risk: the very real risk that inflation will eat away at the value of their funds over time. So, how do you manage risk and achieve your investment goals? In general, when you make an informed decision to take on some level of risk you create the opportunity for greater reward. This is a fundamental principle of investing called “the risk/reward trade-off.” MISMATCH RISK There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to investing. What is a perfectly sound investment strategy in one situation can be
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highly risky under different circumstances. This is called ‘mismatch risk’, which is an investment that is inappropriate for your particular needs and circumstances. Minimise mismatch risk by focusing on your objectives and timeframe. INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE Think about your investment goals, in the short and long term. Are you investing for income, capital growth or a combination of the two? Your goals might include: saving for a deposit on a home, saving for children’s education in ten years time, or building wealth for retirement in 15, 20 or 30 years’ time. TIMEFRAME Sometimes you will want to invest for a short time only, perhaps for a specific goal; other times you may be able to take a longerterm view, aiming for growth of your capital. Typically, the following guidelines apply: • Short-term (less than 12 months) - Cash • Medium-term (at least three years) Emphasis on fixed interest with some cash and growth assets. • Long-term (more than five years) with an emphasis on growth assets. INFLATION Because of inflation a dollar today will not buy as much as it will ‘tomorrow’. Even if the rate of inflation remained at a relatively low three per cent for the next 15 years, a one dollar purchase made today will cost $1.56 in 15 years’ time. To protect your investments from the impact of inflation you need to achieve at least some capital growth. While fixed-term deposits and savings account type investments can provide you with a regular income, your capital value remains the same – but its value decreases with inflation. DIVERSIFICATION Diversification means spreading your money across different investments to effectively spread the risk. The better you diversify your investments, the less likely it is that poor performance from one investment will have a major impact on the value of your total portfolio. However, diversifying into several funds can attract increased management and other fees that erode returns. MARKET Market risk refers to volatility, or the extent to which the market value of your investment will fluctuate, moving down as well as up. This is particularly visible in recent times when there has been volatile fluctuations in equity (share) values. Investments expected to produce higher long-term returns generally experience greater volatility in the short-term. REINVESTMENT If your priority is income then fixed income investments offer advantages but you are exposed to re-investment risk. Interest rates
go up and they go down depending on the economic climate and circumstances, so a drop in interest rates when your investment matures means that your capital will then be re-invested at a lower rate. Your new investment will then provide a lower level of income. LIQUIDITY You may be forced to draw on money deposited in long-term investments to meet short-term needs. This can result in a loss, from withdrawal fees or through having to sell investments when the market price is down. By keeping some funds aside in an accessible, short-term investment such as a cash management trust you can avoid this situation. ADVISERS AND FEES Sound investment advice is imperative but there is risk associated with choosing the right financial adviser and the right portfolio for individual needs. Shop around and check credentials, conditions, costs, etc. Some investment portfolios may incur significant fees and ongoing management costs, and they may not be as flexible as you would want – incurring substantial penalties for early withdrawals, etc . CREDIT Credit risk applies to debt-type investments such as term deposits, debentures and bonds. The risk is that the company to which you have lent money may become insolvent and cannot meet interest payments or to repay your funds. Information is the best means for avoiding credit risk. If you are considering such an investment, ask for information about the company’s credit rating, past performance, ownership, etc. This should give a good indication of the quality of the organisation and be wary of investments that appear too good to be true; they usually are. EXPECTATIONS What can you expect from different investments? While growth assets produce the highest average returns, they also experience the greatest volatility. Typically, investments with the lowest volatility produce the lowest average returns. Likewise, those with higher volatility produce higher average returns over the long term. CONSULTATION In establishing an investment strategy the Golden Rule is: spend a lot of time thinking about your requirements for future financial security, read as much as possible about the various investment products available, consult a qualified financial planner. Armed with this valuable knowledge structure a portfolio that meets your requirements. Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature and is not intended to be advice on financial matters. Financial advice can only be provided by a qualified financial planner.
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PLAN YOUR MANOEUVRE INTO
Applying for entry into tertiary study can, in a way, be likened to planning a military manoeuvre: you cannot simply apply all your combat power at the last minute to achieve the objective; you have to plan ahead knowing that the better the plan, the better the preparation, the smoother the process, the more assured will be the outcome. Similarly, when planning for entry into tertiary study you may need to undertake a number of ‘manoeuvres’ before you actually key in your tertiary application responses. For example, knowing that you may be moving around the country, or even outside the country, can pose a major hurdle – and it’s therefore critical that you and your family can access sound educational programs regardless of location. This article focuses on the opportunities and conditions applying to tertiary study in Queensland but the general principles apply in most Australian States. While the agencies may go by a different name the approach is similar nationwide, and prospective tertiary candidates can use this example as a guide to how they pursue study in other Australian states. In Queensland, touching base with QTAC’s Tertiary Advice and Counselling Service on (07) 3858 1298 may well provide the initial contact you need. Counsellors will be able to help with any problems of location and particular study requirements. For example, there’s the nitty-gritty question of what sort of professional or academic ‘weaponry’ you are taking in with you to achieve a place in your desired course, and here there are a number of calibrations to take into account, including: Do you have a Year 12 pass that will be sufficient to gain a place in your chosen course? Do you have a trade and what is your rank? How long have you been in the military and what other employment experience do you have? Do you have any additional qualifications that could be taken into account? There are also some tactical pathways that can work around not having formal academic qualifications. For example, it is important to note that if you do not have Year 12 or equivalent, you can apply as an alternative entry applicant, using previous qualifications and employment experience, which can include your time in the ADF. You can also apply for tertiary study through a pathway known as Personal Competencies Assessment (PCA). Briefly, PCA is like writing a wellconsidered and documented job application, complete with referees, addressing set criteria about your ability to successfully carry out your mission, in this case is tertiary study. You could also sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT), which is recognised by all QTAC institutions as being an indicator of your ability to study at tertiary level. The results of the test can be used by itself or in conjunction with an alternative entry application; that is, an application without formal academic qualifications, such as
tertiary study
PCA, to improve your standing. Most people who submit PCA applications also sit the test because the results can only be used to help their standing, or in military - speak to advance their position. In other words, a bad STAT result will not count against you. In some instances, the STAT can even be used to give you the necessary prerequisite subjects such as Maths or English that you may need to enter your chosen course. As a part of your manoeuvre you may even consider a two-tiered approach: by choosing a tertiary course that is of interest to you,
which is easier (less competitive) to get into than your preferred course but may not be your final goal. After a year of successful study in this course you may be able to use your results to ‘upgrade’ into your more desired course. So, this ‘battle plan’ can be your stepping stone into tertiary study, which can be fairly complex depending on your current experience or academic status. However, it can be made immensely easier and more attainable if, in the first instance, a wellconsidered strategy is put into place.
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Looking forward LOOKING FORWARD
Transition Timeline – BE READY TO LEAVE
A successful transition from Service to civilian life depends to a large extent on effective planning and taking action to meet your career and lifestyle goals. This enables you to manage the separation on your terms. Generally speaking, the earlier the start the easier is the decision to go, or to stay, and the more prepared you are for the transition to the civilian workforce. WHAT TO DO NOW Whatever your time in the Defence Forces at present, now is the time to consider your future in terms of making the best of your Service career, laying out a plan for eventual separation, and generally planning for the future. It’s understandable that Defence personnel just starting out in their careers, don’t want to think about the mundane planning for the future, which seems so far off. Who wants to think about superannuation, home ownership, financial planning and supplementary training when there’s good times to be had. There’s no doubt, however, that people who commit some of their time and some of their resources to even a loose plan for the future benefit from time: time to watch investments grow; time to acquire a valuable education, training and skills; time provide for a family; and time to consider the next career move. 3-4 YEARS PRIOR TO DISCHARGE Apply for a Transition Seminar. Tri-Service transition seminars that consolidate information and advice on various aspects of transition are conducted in all capital cities and in Newcastle, Nowra, Bandianna and Townsville. Details are available from your Unit Resettlement Officer. DFRDB/MSBS. Write to ComSuper for advice on specific entitlements. You will be entitled to a superannuation benefits from either the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) scheme or the Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme (MSBS). The benefit you will receive depends on which scheme you belong to and the method of discharge. 1-4 YEARS PRIOR TO DISCHARGE Training. Use the Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS) to undertake training that may help you obtain qualifications necessary for your post-discharge employment. All ADF members serving on full time continuous service are eligible to apply for assistance, which provides sponsorship for short vocational, education and training courses undertaken in preparation for re-entry into civilian life. 12 MONTHS TO GO Career Transition Assistance. Find out from your Resettlement Officer about eligibility for
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benefits under the Career Transition Assistance Scheme. The CTAS is a tiered benefit based on completed years of ADF service, accessible for up to 12 months after separation and preserved on transfer to an Active Reserve element. The scheme is designed to assist with employment opportunities after you leave the ADF. Taxation. Write to the Australian Taxation Office and request Undeducted Purchase Price (UPP) if you have pre-1983 service. A taxation liability may exist on the receipt of a payment in consequence of your discharge. Apply for a second Transition Seminar. Areas covered include advice on: job seeking techniques and employment prospects; self employment; transition to the civilian work place/life style; benefits available, e.g. superannuation, housing, loans, compensation, veteran’s entitlements; and management of personal affairs, eg investment, taxation, wills. 6 MONTHS TO GO DFRDB/MSBS. Write to ComSuper requesting confirmation of entitlements. The DFRDB Authority manages the DFRDB Scheme and the MSB Board of Trustees manages the MSBS. ComSuper administers both schemes. ComSuper website is www.comsuper.gov.au Previous Service. Ensure that any relevant previous service has been recognised for LSL purposes. Apply for Discharge. Application for Resignation, Discharge or Transfer to the Reserves should be processed through your relevant Career Management Agency via your supervisor. You should apply for discharge/ resignation allowing at least three calendar months’ effective service before your intended discharge date. Long Service Leave. If you wish to take LSL before your discharge, your application should be forwarded six months before the desired date of commencement. Eligibility for LSL accrues at the rate of three months for the first 10 years and 0.3 months for each year over 10 years. LSL may either be taken during service on full or half pay in which case tax is payable as for normal income. Health Insurance. Before you leave the ADF you should consider carefully your health insurance needs. Changes to private health insurance, namely Lifetime Health Cover, have significant implications for members separating from the ADF. On ceasing full-time service
after 1 July 2000, you have two years or until you reach the age of 31, to join a health fund without detriment. 3 MONTHS TO DISCHARGE Removal. Arrange an interview with the relevant removals staff. Pay in Lieu of Long Service Leave. Your Unit Pay Centre will assist you to make an application for pay in lieu of LSL. Check with your future employer to ascertain whether it is possible to transfer LSL credits to your new employment. Medical and dental examination. Arrange an appointment for final medical and dental examinations. You will need to organise treatment, where necessary, to be carried out. Health insurance and ambulance. Reconsider your health insurance situation and make the necessary arrangements with DefenceHealth/ NHBS, private insurance health schemes and/or ambulance funds. Tradesman Certificate. Ensure your Record of Training has been accredited by the appropriate authority. Will. Ensure you have made arrangements to collect your will and/or make a new will. Close to discharge date Housing. Tenants of Defence homes are expected to vacate their quarter on discharge or retirement, but an extension may be approved under certain circumstances. Seek written approval for an extension from your Service Housing Authority well in advance of discharge. Housing Loan. You should establish your eligibility for a DSH Loan/Defence Home Owner Loan; Bank/Building Society Loan; and Home Purchase or Sale Expenses Allowance. Repatriation and Compensation. If you are injured, or develop an illness linked to your service in the ADF, you may be eligible for compensation. The Military Compensation Scheme (MCS) provides members with compensation and rehabilitation cover. The Military Compensation and Rehabilitation Service website (www.dva.gov.au/adf/mcrs/) allows you to assess your eligibility. Note: This timeline and schedule is not exhaustive, nor it is authoritative but merely a guide as to the type of considerations and actions required. Members are strongly urged to seek advice from respective Service authorities when planning for a future separation from the Defence Forces.
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MANAGING CAREER AND TRANSITION
Deciding to leave the Defence Forces is a major step in one’s life, but one that is clearly inevitable. This can either be a seamless progression to a new career or retirement, or fraught with problems. By committing to that inevitable separation long before it’s time to go, planning to go on your own terms, the transition can berewarding and a great beginning a new civilian life. Training and retaining key staff is paramount in most organisations. For the employer it means better productivity leading to improved profitability, and for the employee it can mean greater rewards for productive service, plus greater opportunities for advancement. One challenge facing personnel is to transition to civilian employment at a level equal to or better than their current position. The tank commander or the armoured vehicle driver may not find a directly equivalent civilian position, but that should not preclude securing a job that is equal in skill level and standing to their military job. Both soldiers have training in electronics; they manage a highly complex weapons system; they possess man management training; and they think globally in military tactics. The aim, therefore, is to use this high level of military training as a base for supplementary training to bridge the gap between military and civilian industry qualifications. In a way, this means managing two careers: your current Defence Force career and your intended post-Service career. When soldiers, sailors and airmen/airwomen take on extra study and work experience they often also find success in rank and career progression while in the Services, and when they separate from the Defence Forces they are in a better position to find the right job for them. People with qualifications and experience that are transferable to the civilian sector are a valuable ‘commodity’. Before embarking on this path to an eventual new career, lifestyle and financial goals some self-analysis of your situation may help to show the way ahead. IMMEDIATE & FUTURE CIRCUMSTANCES Searching questions can reveal what needs to be done urgently and what can be done as time progresses. Typical questions leading to a specific course of action include: • Why are you seeking discharge, and are temporary circumstances forcing an earlier than ideal separation? • Will you be seeking re-employment, and what are the prospects for a new career? Somewhere to live and work is obviously a major consideration and one that may have the greatest impact on your post-Service lifestyle, so you may need to consider: • Why you plan to settle in a particular area, and does that suit your family? • What are the employment opportunities for you/your partner/your children in this area? • What are the demands of your family in the areas of education and lifestyle pursuits? Your financial situation is another major factor and one that often receives less attention than it
deserves.You may need to know: • What exactly are your present and future financial positions in terms of assets, cash resources and borrowings? • How much money will you need to live, and will your new net income meet those costs? • Will tax erode your pension entitlements, and have you investigated minimising tax? • Will you work full-time, part-time or undertake volunteer work, and how does this impact on your take-home pay? PERSONALITY ASSESSMENT Job opportunities in the civilian sector are very different from the potentially combat-related duties experienced in the military and, as such, may require a different approach to interaction both at the employee and management levels. Within the military an authoritative and single-minded attitude fits with potentially lifethreatening activities undertaken, but a more conciliatory and cooperative attitude may be required in a civilian job. A degree of self-analysis may raise some human resources issues that need to be considered in preparation for that civilian job: • What type of person are you, and do you have the personality, tolerance, relationship and skills to ‘fit in’? • Are you seeking a position of responsibility, and are you prepared to take on that position? • Are you ambitious, are you prepared to take on the workload and responsibility? • How well do you cope with competition, and do you have the skills to succeed? • What is your attitude to seniority and your
acceptance of what may be a lower position than you held in the military? EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL Of critical importance, especially to those not entitled to long-term Military Super entitlements, may be gaining employment commensurate with existing remuneration. Have you critically assessed your prospective net income in a new career, taking into account Service-related benefits such as Service allowance, subsidised married quarter rent, subsidised home loan and other benefits? Have you compared the long-term benefits of Military Super entitlements with that offered in civilian employment. Do you intend to continue in your current type of employment, and what changes are needed to prepare you for the civilian equivalent? Do you hope to change the nature of your employment, and have you completed training required to be competitive? What skills do you have, and how can those skills be translated into civilian qualifications? You may need to seek assistance in expressing your Service skills in civilian terms. MARKET EVALUATION Many military jobs have a link to civilian job types. In deciding when to leave the Defence Force a critical assessment of your qualifications may include the following: • Is there a broad ‘market’ for your skills? • Do you need to expand your skills and transform those skills into a civilian context. • Is your current military position too specialised for the civilian job market; do bridging training.
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Looking forward LOOKING FORWARD
AUSTRALIAN ARMY
The Australian Army is one of the world’s most cutting-edge military forces, comprised of professional men and women who provide a versatile and modern team, protecting our country, our interests and our people. The land force operates in a far more complex strategic environment than that of just a couple of years ago. Threats can now come from a variety of unexpected sources, not necessarily associated with traditional warfare. While times may have changed, the fundamental mission of the Army remains steadfast: to win the land battle, and protect the interests of Australia and its people. To achieve this objective the Army has built a formidable reputation based upon teamwork, tradition, pride, courage, initiative and commitment to excellence. The Australian Army regularly deploys on domestic and global operations. Currently there are Army personnel carrying out a variety of humanitarian, peacekeeping and regional assistance missions in areas across the globe. Success is founded in comprehensive and world-class training. Major exercises form an essential part of this process by testing people and capability, ensuring that the Army continues to be a world leading armed force. The future land force will be shaped by the Army’s modernisation process, involving the transformation of the current Army into the Future Army, such that Army remains a capable, credible, and relevant force. This transformation will be achieved through a continuum of processes, decisions, and actions.
Modernisation includes the development and adoption of validated concepts and doctrine, adaptation and optimisation of force structures, and introduction and renewal of major systems, policies, facilities and support architectures. A major element of this transformation is Plan BEERSHEBA - the Army’s future structure. Since the days of the Light Horse, the Australian Army has operated by combining different capabilities to the best military effect. This process, known as combined arms teaming, is foundational to Army and a vital component of the changes planned. Implementing these changes will present its challenges, but there is a sound conceptual basis for Plan BEERSHEBA. Commonality of force structure, the ‘total force’ concept, digitisation and the development of training areas proximate to Multirole Combat Brigade locations will increase the modularity and interoperability of the land force. In concert with these changes, the experience and high calibre of Army’s people and the flexibility of the force generation cycle will be the basis of an agile and adaptable, world class fighting force. The Australian Army strives to keep pace with changes in technology and the character of war itself. Through a robust modernisation and planning program, Army remains a highly regarded, professional organisation that can meet the future needs of the Australian Government. www.army.gov.au
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ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE
The RAAF employs about 13,500 men and women, supported by 2,800 Air Force Reservists and 900 civilian public servants, at 11 major bases and a host of offices across Australia. Air Force Headquarters is located in Canberra. The Air Force Vision is a fighting force that “will be a balanced expeditionary air force capable of achieving the Australian Government’s objectives through swift and decisive application of air and space power in joint operations or as a part of a larger coalition force”. The Air Force motto is the Latin phrase Per Ardua ad Astra, translated as “Through Struggle to the Stars”, from Sir Henry Rider Haggard’s novel The People of the Mist. In an authoritative publication on Air Power, ‘The Australian Experience of Air Power’, Australia’s security policy changes are described as going from a strategy in the 1950s of forward defence, with provision for expeditionary operations, to one of defence of Australia. As late as 1987, this defensive stance persisted with a policy of defending the sea-air gap across northern Australia. This need to defend in the sea-air gap led to the establishment of bare bases across Australia’s north, including RAAF Scherger
on Cape York, RAAF Curtin near Derby WA and RAAF Tindal near Katherine NT (also a permanent base for F/A-18 Hornet fighters). These bases would be needed to launch aircraft into the sea-air gap if a threat emerged. This attitude changed in the mid-1990s, with the Government stating that the defence of Australia required the ADF to structure towards ‘defending Australian regional interests’. This meant the ADF would become more capable in expeditionary operations. One problem in meeting the expeditionary commitments, potentially to different locations, centres on the reduction in personnel numbers over the past decade. However, with a force of around 13,500 the RAAF has continued to
support a number of operations and missions overseas, which has resulted in a continuing high operational tempo. This led to an ongoing program of ‘rebalancing’ the RAAF, aimed at distributing personnel and assets to where they are most needed – especially in the introduction of new technologies and weapon systems. The future of the RAAF will be shaped by a number of factors: its history in times of war and peace, lessons drawn from more recent operations as part of larger coalition expeditionary forces, emerging threats globally and regionally, and the prevailing doctrine in response to Government policies on the safeguarding Australia’s security.
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) is the naval branch of the Australian Defence Force. Established in 1901, the RAN is Australia’s senior Service, formed out of the Commonwealth Naval Forces to become the navy of Australia after Federation. Today, the RAN is one of the largest and most sophisticated naval forces in the Pacific region, with a significant presence in the Indian Ocean. The RAN continues a high operational tempo in support of military campaigns and peacekeeping missions worldwide. On the personnel front, the New Generation Navy (NGN) program was established in 2009 under a Chief of Navy Directive to address the Culture, Leadership and Structural changes required for Navy to meet the challenges of delivering future capability. NGN represents the energy and commitment
of Navy’s people in creating an environment where people are empowered to perform at their best; where Navy – as a warfighting force – is trusted to defend Australia and its interests by being ready to fight and win at sea. The Commonwealth Naval Forces were established on 1 March 1901, two months after Federation. On 10 July 1911, King George V granted the title of ‘Royal Australian Navy’. - Surface Force, covering the RAN’s surface combatants (generally frThe RAN fleet includies frigates, submarines, patrol boats and auxiliary ships. The RAN today is tasked with the ability to defend Australian waters and undertake wider deployments. The RAN has two primary bases for its fleet: Fleet Base East located at HMAS Kuttabul near Sydney, and Fleet Base West, located at HMAS Stirling near Perth. There are three other ports,
which are home to the majority of the RAN’s minor war vessels: HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin, HMAS Cairns in Cairns, HMAS Waterhen in Sydney. The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) fleet is made up of 47 commissioned warships as of July 2015. The main strength is the twelve frigates of the surface combatant force: eight Anzac class and three Adelaide class. Six Collins-class boats make up the submarine service, although technical and manpower problems mean not all of the submarines are active at any time. Amphibious warfare assets include one Canberra-class landing helicopter dock ship (with a second due to commission at the end of 2015), and the landing ship HMAS Choules. Thirteen Armidaleclass patrol boats perform coastal and economic exclusion zone patrols, and four Huon-class vessels are used for minehunting and clearance (another two are commissioned but in reserve since October 2011). Replenishment at sea is provided by two ships, Sirius and Success, while the two Leeuwin-class and four Paluma-class vessels perform survey and charting duties. The lion’s share of the RAN fleet is divided between Fleet Base East (HMAS Kuttabul, in Sydney) and Fleet Base West (HMAS Stirling, near Perth). Mine warfare assets are located at HMAS Waterhen (also in Sydney), while HMAS Cairns in Cairns and HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin host the navy’s patrol and survey vessels.The RAN maintains a readiness to deploy overseas in response to Australian Government tasking, to support coalition operations and humanitarian assist activities.
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Looking useful forward links LOOKING FORWARD
DEFENCE SUPPORT
Defence Community Organisation www.defence.gov.au/dco Defence Families of Australia (DFA) A Ministerially appointed advocacy group for Defence families. 1800 100 509 www.dfa.org.au Defence Special Needs Support Group A network of peer support for Defence families with special needs. 1800 037 674 Defence LGBTI Information Service (DEFGLIS) A network supporting Defence LGBTI personnel and their families. www.defglis.com.au Defence Housing Australia (DHA) Comprehensive housing services for Defence families. 139 342 www.dha.gov.au Toll Transitions Total relocation services for Defence families. 1800 819 167 (24/7) www.tolltransitions.com.au/defence Defence Chaplains Defence Switchboard on 1300 333 362 and asking for the Duty Chaplain at the military facility closest to you location. Military Christian Fellowship of Australia Support for Christians who work in and around the ADF. www.mcf-a.org.au/ Childcare Access Hotline Find childcare options in your local area. 1800 670 305 Mission Australia Early Learning Services The childcare provider operating the Defence childcare centres. 1800 757 343 www.maearlylearning.com.au mychild Search for childcare options in your local area. www.mychild.gov.au/sites/mychild Australia Post Information about postal costs and restrictions during deployments or exercise. 13 76 78 auspost.com.au/personal/defence-mail.html Global Operations Outlines the current operations in action overseas or within Australia. www.defence.gov.au/Operations/ National Welfare Coordination Centre (NWCC) An information and referral service for the families of deployed ADF members. 1800 801 026 (24/7) www.defence.gov.au/nwcc ADF Financial Services Consumer Council Information and videos about managing your finances and creating budgets. www.adfconsumer.gov.au ADF Pay and Conditions Manual Details of pay, conditions and entitlements for ADF members. www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac ADF Service Relief Trust Funds Access loans, grants or welfare services through their Service’s Relief Trust Fund. Defence Force Welfare Association (DFWA) www.dfwa.org.au Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme Provides payments and allowances for ADF members to assist with home purchase. 1300 4 DHOAS (1300 434 627) www.dhoas.gov.au Defence Tax Management Office General information on taxation matters, including Fringe Benefits Tax and its impact on family income. 1800 806 853 taxation.management@defence.gov.au
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Government assistance for families www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/themes/ families 136 150 Salary Packaging Salary packaging options. Enter employee code A100. www.smartsalary.com.au Emergency Support www.defence.gov.au/DCO/Emergency_ support_(Managing_section).htm Find a GP Search for a GP in your local area www.findgp.com.au/ IMSICK Health information and referral service for ADF members away from the workplace. 1800 IMSICK (1800 467 425) www.defence.gov.au/ health/1800IMSICK/1800IMSICK.asp Joint Health Command Information and factsheets about health and healthcare services. www.defence.gov.au/health/default.asp National ADF Family Health Program Available to all Australian recognised dependants. 02 6266 3547 www.defence.gov.au/Health/SHC/ Mental Health Services All Hours Support Line 1800 628 036 +61 2 9425 3878 outside Australia Mental health factsheets:www.defence.gov.au/ Health/HealthPortal/MentalHealthOnline.asp beyondblue Addressing issues associated with depression, anxiety and related disorders in Australia. beyondblue.org.au 1300 22 4636 Kids Help Line Free, and anonymous 24-hour telephone and online counselling service. 1800 551 800 www.kidshelp.com.au Lifeline A national 24-hour support line: crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health services. 131 114 www.lifeline.org.au
Mensline Australia 24-hour service for men. 1300 789 978 www.mensline.org.au Veterans and Families Counselling Service Provides counselling and support programs to Australian veterans or peacekeepers and their families. 1800 011 046 www.vvcs.gov.au/ Violence Against Women Helpline A 24-hour helpline specialising in counselling and referrals for women who experience domestic violence or sexual assault. 1800 200 526 Cracking the code The Australian Public Service Commission’s Cracking the code – How to apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service. www.apsc.gov.au JobSearch Australia’s largest free jobs website. www.jobsearch.gov.au Open Universities Australia Offering value-added distance learning for Defence employees and their families. www.open.edu.au/oua/peep Department of Veterans Affairs 133 254 www.dva.gov.au Including the mental health resource, At Ease. Legacy 1800 LEGACY (1800 534 229) www.legacy.com.au Returned and Services League (RSL) www.rsl.org.au Veterans and Families Counselling Service Providing counselling and support programs to Australian veterans or peacekeepers and their families. 1800 011 046 www.vvcs.gov.au/ The Wellbeing Toolbox A resource to help former serving members and their families move from military to civilian life. www.wellbeingtoolbox.net.au Department of Defence www.defence.gov.au
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