DefenceLife L I F E S T Y L E G U I D E F O R A U S T R A L I A N D E F E N C E F A M I L I E S
2017 EDITION
LIFESTYLE FAMILY MATTERS MILITARY LIFE RELOCATION
EDUCATION
SCHOOLING OPTIONS STATE BY STATE
FUTURE
CAREER OPTIONS POST-ADF CAREER
DEFENCE FAMILIES RELOCATIONS | SUPPORT | EDUCATION CAREER | EMPLOYMENT | TRANSITION
CPL TAHLIA NEWBY
TERTIARY STUDY WITH DASS
FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to the 16th issue of DefenceLife Magazine! DefenceLife magazine aims to inform Defence personnel and families on a range of issues that may 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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DEFENCE FAMILIES
HEALTH & FITNESS
Managing Editor
LIFESTYLE
FAMILY MATTERS | SUPPORT PROGRAMS MILITARY LIFE | HEALTH & FITNESS LOCATION PROFILES
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LIFESTYLE
QUEENSLAND
EDUCATION
SCHOOLING OPTIONS | STATE BY STATE TRAINING PROGRAMS
LOOKING FORWARD
CAREER OPTIONS | POST-ADF CAREER MANAGING EDITOR
John Armstrong
ADVERTISING
Linda Hann
PRODUCTION
Joanne Pollard
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
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defencelife.com.au
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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 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.
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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 (DHA) provides quality housing and related services to Defence members and families. To meet its Defence housing obligations, DHA is active in Australian residential housing markets, acquiring and developing land, and constructing and purchasing houses. DHA provides the following services for Defence members and their families u Assistance in finding a housing solution through our Housing Consultants located around Australia and through our online housing tool – HomeFind (accessed via Online Services). u Management and maintenance of housing. u Administration of the allowance for Defence members occupying rental accommodation. u Construction and acquisition of properties to meet Defence housing demands. u Redevelopment of properties to meet Defence standards. Each year, DHA sells a portion of its portfolio through a property investment and leaseback program. These sales fund DHA operations in providing quality housing to Defence members and families. DHA staff are located in 19 offices in regional centres and nearby Defence outposts throughout Australia, head office located in Canberra close to Defence’s Russell offices 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. DFA’s 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. Primarily, the aim of the group has always been to improve the quality of life of Defence families and therefore the serving Member by: l Representing the diversity of today’s Defence families; l Providing independent, accurate and honest advice to Government; l Providing a recognised forum for the views of Defence families; l Reporting and making recommendations to the Minister responsible for Defence Personnel and the Chief of the Defence Force; l Influencing policy making that directly affects ADF families. DFA consults with Defence’s own support agencies, like 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 advocate an issue concerning many families. DFA is recognised by Defence and its stakeholders in providing feedback on views and interests of Defence families.
The National Convenor and National Delegates work with Regional Managers and Commanding Officers to clarify or resolve issues affecting families. The National Convenor meets regularly with the Assistant Minister of Defence, the Chief of the Defence Force, the Service Chiefs, Head of People Capability, and Director Generals of Army, Navy and Air Force Personnel, DCO, Policy, and Housing and Removals. This direct engagement facilitates reporting and progress on issues affecting families and promotes positive outcomes for all. The DFA Executive operates at national, regional and local levels. The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin is a strong supporter of Defence families and the support the DFA provides. He says: “Being a member of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is a unique experience - not only for the individuals in uniform, but for their parents, partners and children who are also asked to accept the distinct challenges associated with military life. As an organisation, we recognise the importance of family and we value the enormous contribution our Defence families make to the ADF. That is why I am committed to delivering the programs and services required to sustain the health and welfare of our people and their families at home and on operations. Defence Families Australia (DFA) plays a significant role in ensuring we meet this commitment. For more information about the support available through the DFA go to: www.dfa.org.au
DEFENCE FAMILIES
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How do I become recognised as a Defence partner 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 nominating Next of Kin is important to partners? 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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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 best way to access any of these services is to contact the all-hours Defence Family Helpline on DefenceFamilyHelpline@defence. gov.au or 1800 624 608. The Defence Family Helpline operates 24-7, staffed by qualified human services professionals. Deployments. Time apart from families due to deployments, training or other Service requirements is an integral feature of Defence life. The DCO services inform and prepare families for these times, providing support to make these experiences positive and strengthening ones for your family. Support during relocation. The DCO offers support, practical assistance and resources to help Defence families manage a mobile lifestyle, and reduce the effects of relocations. Partner support. Partners of ADF members can access funding for education and employment services to enhance their career options and to help them to secure employment when posted with their partner. We also help partners develop stress management strategies. Children’s education. The DCO provides information, resources and programs to help minimise the disruption to children’s education caused by relocation. Regional Education Liaison Officers are experienced teachers and are available to advise Defence families on education issues. School based Aides and Mentors support Defence children through the process of changing schools and times of parental absence.
Childcare. Children of Defence families can receive priority of access to Defence childcare centres around Australia. Funding may also be available to organisations that provide childcare services and Defence partners seeking to set up a family day care business. Dependants with special needs. Families can obtain practical assistance to reduce the impact of relocation in these cases. Emergency and crisis support. Assistance is available to families facing a crisis when an ADF member is absent from home for Service reasons. Support programs are available in instances of illness, injury or bereavement. Community connection. Families connecting with their local community can obtain personalised advice or access a directory of Defence and community run organisations, in their local area. Not for profit organisations running programs in support of Defence families can apply for financial support. Transition to civilian life. The DCO provides a range of practical guidance and support to assist ADF members planning to leave Defence to make a seamless transition to civilian life. Defence Family Matters magazine. This free tri-annual lifestyle magazine is specifically for the families of military personnel. Services for Reservists. The families of Reserve members can access a broad range of support services. For more information about the services the DCO provides to Defence families go to: www.defence.gov.au/dco
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Enhancing a Defence Career ONE AIRWOMAN’S QUEST THROUGH STUDY
As a teenager, Air Force Corporal Tahlia Newby never wanted to study at a university level. In fact, one of her reasons for joining the RAAF was to have guaranteed employment and pave a career path without studying - but things change.
Story: Aislinn Dwyer
Now at the age of 25, Tahlia has discovered that tertiary education opens up a whole world of opportunities for her, both while serving in the Air Force and eventually when she leaves the Defence Force. Tahlia recently gained a promotion to corporal, working at the ‘sharp end’ of the Air Force in No 77 Squadron, home of the F/A18A Hornet fighter jets. During her time at Headquarters Air Combat Group Tahlia decided to undertake a Bachelor of Business course, realising the opportunities and assistance available while serving in the Defence forces to attain tertiary qualifications. “Previously, I never saw university in my sights,” CPL Newby said. “Coming into the RAAF at a fairly junior level, I realised I didn’t have the extended knowledge I would need to eventually take up a higher appointment in a headquarters environment. “I decided I wanted to be a commissioned officer so that I could mentor others and make a bigger difference in my career, so I chose to pursue a Bachelor of Business degree.” Since beginning her tertiary study journey with Open University, Tahlia has found an extended support network within the university, her parents, her partner and the Defence community. 6
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“My parents were initially surprised but they know I’m a go-getter,” she said. “The Air Force certainly has changed my perspective on university. I have received a lot of support from everyone, and my mentors have encouraged me to undertake further study.
I want to be a positive female role model within the Air Force, and hopefully inspire other females to join. “I limit my study to after hours and weekends, and because semesters are spaced out over three months I’m finding it easier to manage my time between work and study. “Open University has granted me networking opportunities both inside and outside the Defence Force. “I’m meeting new people and learning the skills they have, which in turn inspires me.” Within this support network, Tahlia has also received assistance from the Defence Assisted
Study Scheme (DASS), which enables Service personnel to undertake educational and training courses while doing their normal Air Force duties. “I found the process of applying for the scheme to be no trouble and really straightforward,” Tahlia said. “The study leave days and the help from the DASS are the main benefits. The monetary compensation is more of an additional bonus and an incentive to pass my subjects.” When asked where she sees herself in five years, it is clear Tahlia has a strong determination to be a leading female figure within the RAAF. “I see myself being commissioned, it’s something I really want,” she said. “To be in the officer ranks, ideally in a public affairs role and promoting the Air Force is my ultimate goal. “I want to be a positive female role model within the Air Force, and hopefully inspire other females to join.” Anyone wanting to explore a tertiary education path while serving in the Defence Forces is encouraged to seek advice through their unit administrative office. Photo: Corporal Tahlia Newby at work at No 77 Squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW. (Defence)
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Changing your Drivers 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. For more information on the latest rules affecting Defence families in renewing their drivers licence please consult the Department of Transport in your State or Territory - and be up to date with the law.
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 Service Homes 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. Building Insurance. Our building insurance offers comprehensive insurance with economical premiums, and a range of other benefits that makes it different to any other policy on the market. Home Contents Insurance. Your possessions are more than just belongings - they include your memories, the things you can’t place a value on. 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. Travel safe and with peace of mind. We can provide travel insurance with our partner QBE. Request a quote and check policy details. Compulsory Third Party (NSW & QLD only). Essential to have, easy to purchase. You can now arrange your CTP with QBE. Private pleasure craft. Relaxing on your boat in the great outdoors should always be smooth sailing, but you need to factor in the unexpected. DSHI’s comprehensive pleasure craft policy provides cover for accidental loss or DefenceLife 2014-10-17T15:11:55+11:00 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. If your caravan, domestic trailer or motorcycle forms an integral part of your lifestyle, they deserve as much protection as your other valuable possessions. DSHI’s policy provides cover for loss, theft or damage to your vehicle, as well as legal liability. Private Motor. From sedans and station wagons, to four wheel drives and utilities, DSHI is pleased to offer 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 please contact 1300 552 662. For more information on DSH Insurance please visit their website at www.dsh.gov.au.
PERSONAL INSURANCE FOR VETERANS AND ADF MEMBERS
COVER
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• 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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Stay Healthy & Well WITH ACTIVE LIVING
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 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
Guard against hearing loss
Attune Hearing is the preferred hearing provider for Defence Force personnel for any hearing, balance or tinnitus issues. Attune is an accredited, independent, medical audiology company with 30 years of experience. Attune understands hearing and employs post graduate university trained audiologists who work in association with Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeons. Did you know one in six Australians have a hearing loss and that most people have a hearing loss for 7 to10 years before being tested. Also, one in five Australians have tinnitus and don’t know that an audiologist can help. Attune takes a proactive approach to hearing and invites Defence Force family and friends, aged 50 and over to book in for a Hearing Check*. A medical hearing check should be on your tick list. We listen with our ears but process the sounds in our brain. If you don’t use it, you lose it. So what do you have to lose? Call Attune on 1800 195 155. (*Attune will send you a GP referral to be signed by your GP).
AUSTRALIAN OWNED
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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 may 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.
NAVY HEALTH - It’s Us + You Whether you’re a member of the Defence Forces or a relative of someone who is, we’re here to serve you. We’ve been providing 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? It’s 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, not-for-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 per cent reduction on payable premiums is offered to serving ADF members when covering their families.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Families and active Reservists are eligible for a 10% discount.
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Your local medical practice in Ashgrove Ashgrove West Group Practice (AWGP) is a family owned medical practice providing modern, comprehensive medical care. Doctors Cliff and Julie Fisher and Doctors Phil and Anne Leadbeater established the Practice in 1979. Doctor Solange Green joined the Practice in October 2013 and Doctor Liza Robertson and Doctor Sally Shrapnel joined the practice in July 2016. Our GP’s have been providing medical service to the Ashgrove, Bardon, and The Gap communities and surrounding suburbs for over 30 years. The Doctors at this Practice are members of the Australian Medical Association (AMA). The Practice has been fully accredited with AGPAL (Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited) since October 1999 and is thus recognised as a quality General Practice. All doctors in the Practice participate in Quality Assurance and Continuing Education, and are Vocationally Registered General Practitioners committed to providing care of the highest standard. AWGP is a private billing practice, however, offers bulk-billing for children under 16 years, and discounts for pension & health care card holders. AWGP also have an in-house Exercise Physiologist, Dietitian, and Hearing Care Specialist. The surgery is open 6 days a week; call now on (07) 3366 3544 to book an appointment or head online to www.ashgrovewestgp.com.au
Make the Most of Life STAY HAPPY... AND POSITIVE
Everyone wants to be happy but it’s not that easy. 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. 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.
Ashgrove West Group Practice Family Doctors
• Open Mon to Fri 8 am -7 pm & Sat 9 am - 12 noon • Now BULK BILLING Children Under 16 • 4 female & 2 male doctors available for morning & evening appointments
Ph: 3366 3544 461 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove www.ashgrovewestgp.com.au 12
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things healthy people enjoy We all know at least one or two people who are super fit and never seem to get sick - and they always seem to be really happy. How do they do it? Were they born that way, or is there something else going on? The short answer is ‘they’ weren’t born to live a health life. Healthy people have some rules they live by, even if they don’t consciously follow them. So what are these rules?
They enjoy exercising Healthy people love to exercise and have exercises or sports that they really enjoy doing. They exercise because they like to, not because they have to. When we try to exercise we don’t like doing the lifestyle changes so it doesn’t last long term. Find an exercise or sport that you actually enjoy. That way you will look forward to it rather than dread it.
They limit ‘bad’ foods Many people think healthy people never eat any ‘bad’ food. Healthy people have a different definition of ‘bad’ food. They don’t drink conventional sodas and eat GMO corn chips, but they may have a sweet snack or a dessert once or twice a week, compared to others who eat junk food or sugary snacks once or twice a day. Try to make sure your meals and your snacks are healthy. Over time, you’ll elevate your definition of junk food, too.
They eat healthy snacks Snacking on junk food can cause all sorts of damage and contributes to weight gain. Healthy people eat healthy snacks and prepare them ahead of time, such as raw nuts (unsalted and unroasted), fresh fruit, and cut up vegetables (eg. celery and carrots). Plan ahead when it comes to snacks, and at the grocery store, shop accordingly.
They drink plenty of water Water does so many good things for your body. Keeping hydrated helps your skin and hair look great. It’s no wonder healthy people always seem to look great. They drink plenty of water and don’t drink sodas. Sodas are full of sugar, and don’t think diet sodas are any better. Diet sodas are filled with extra chemicals and terrible artificial sweeteners. Don’t be drinking plenty of fruit drinks such as orange juice either. Why? Have you ever thought of eating 30 oranges in a row? No? Well that’s pretty much what you’re doing when you drink a glass or two of orange juice. It’s a lot of sugar! Some fruit drinks are also full of other nasty ingredients. Try drinking water and herbal teas, or a recipe for cranberry lemonade with stevia.
They go to bed early We all know that sleep is an important part of life. But healthy people know just how important it is to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. They go to sleep earlier and get up much earlier, even on their days off. And then, they tend to exercise first thing in the morning. Exercising in the morning has great benefits? Have you changed anything in your life that has made you healthier? Why not follow some of the ‘do’ things above and reduce the frequency of the ‘don’t’ things that we all know are not good for our health, fitness and wellbeing. Courtesy Organic Lifestyle Magazine
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Insurance through your Super fund Most super funds will give their members 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 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. For more information contact your Super fund about eligibility and benefits.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
The Australian Defence Force Cadets (ADF Cadets) program is conducted by the Australian Defence Force in cooperation with the community. This combined approach benefits the nation by developing an individual’s capacity to contribute to society, fostering an interest in Defence Force careers, and developing ongoing support for Defence. Goals include: l Conduct a creative personal development program in a military environment that: l Extends individuals beyond their self imposed limits, l Develops an understanding of the balance between personal freedoms and choice and the responsibilities that they bring, l Promotes self reliance, self esteem and self discipline, and l Develops and recognises a broad range of skills including leadership and teamwork. The ADF Cadets program also contributes to social development by: l Encouraging pride in self, community and the nation, and equipping young people to be better citizens, l Encouraging a volunteer ethos, l Developing work and life skills, and l Providing a supportive, safe environment. Cadets also contribute to the development of the ADF through: l Enhancing Defence’s reputation,
Learn a Language in 2017 Enquire now! A range of languages Reception – Year 12 After school hours in Metropolitan Adelaide
Maintaining Service customs traditions and values, l Understanding what Defence does, and l Demonstrating a return on the Defence Organisation’s investment by promoting career opportunities within Defence. To join cadets applicants need to: l Be a resident of Australia. l Be between 12 and a half for Navy Cadets and Army Cadets or 13 for Air Force Cadets and 18. You can stay as a cadet until one day before you turn 20. l Provide a statement from your doctor confirming you are able to participate in cadet activities. l Not be a member of any other Cadet force or the Australian Defence Force. l Complete an application form signed by your parent or guardian. Once an application is received, the unit Commander will arrange an interview to discuss activities and commitment. Cadets are expected to show commitment by attending activities for a reasonable period of time. Cadets may leave at any time but personal satisfaction is best achieved if individuals show a keen interest in progressing through the programs. To join up as a Cadet, find the location of your nearest Unit and contact the commander during the hours the Unit meets. l
Continue language learning Are you moving interstate and want your children to continue their language learning? Perhaps they’d like to learn a new language not offered at their school, or learn to read and write a language they speak at home? The School of Languages is a specialist government school, open to students from all sectors, for students from Reception to Year 12. Classes are held after school hours in teaching centres across the Adelaide metropolitan area.
Language training on offer In 2017 the School of Languages offers primary courses in: Afrikaans*, Auslan, Chinese, French, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Khmer*, Korean, Polish*, Spanish, Vietnamese. Courses follow the Australian Curriculum and are taught by fully qualified and registered language teachers. Courses in Years 8-12 are offered in 28 languages. All senior secondary courses are recognised by the SACE Board and count towards the completion of the SACE certificate at Beginners, Continuers and Background Speaker level.
Open the door to the world SCAN HERE TO
WATCH OUR VIDEO
T: 08 8301 4800 dl.1802.admin@schools.sa.edu.au
www.schooloflanguages.sa.edu.au 14
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Being able to communicate in another language has obvious practical benefits in an increasingly globalised world. Learning languages also improves a child’s overall literacy as well as cognitive skills. Research shows that the bilingual experience influences the brain from infancy to old age. The earlier children start learning a language and the more languages they learn the more benefit to them! Enquire now for enrolment times at primary and secondary levels. Details of all courses, the location of classes and course charges can be found on the school’s website at www.schooloflanguages. sa.edu.au
recognising defence training
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 familiarity of the Defence Force. 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. 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 necessary to upgrade those qualifications. 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. Most prospective employers want to see formal qualifications before they assess an applicant’s work and life experience. It’s just a fact of business life. But don’t worry. 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. The first step in gaining those industry recognisable qualifications is to find the right 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 566 046 to discuss your RPL options.
Commercial Diving: Money and Travel Craig Hackett originally completed the ADAS Parts 1, 2 and 3 with the Navy operational dive team. He says, “I wanted the challenges of the clearance diver course. I was then attracted to commercial diving when I heard of the money that could be made. Ultimately I was looking for money and travel; I’ve found both.” Craig completed his ADAS Part 4 Closed Bell Course at The Underwater Centre Tasmania in 2009. “Completing the saturation diving course has been one of the best investments in my life,” he said. “You learn the basics of working and diving from a saturation dive system and how to operate it; the rest you’ll pick up once you’re on the job. You won’t get on the job without the certificate though. “I mainly work now as a saturation diver, but I still do some work as an air diver too. It can be very tough to get a break in the commercial diving industry, but with no risk you’ll never get there. Doing the ‘Sat’ course has opened up doors for me, and I earn more money than I ever thought I would be able to. I’m very grateful for what I’ve got from this industry.” For more information about training as a commercial diver visit www. theunderwatercentre.com/tasmania
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LIFESTYLE
‘civvy’ qualifications
lifestyle
militarylifestyle The Australian Defence Force has special requirements that are formally accepted as conditions of service. While families are not part of this official commitment their lives are nevertheless directly affected by the challenges of 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
TALK TO CHILDREN ABOUT 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 early, as they will know from conversations that something is going on. 16
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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 managing change and coping when feeling stressed out. There are tips and hints for handling emotions, and relaxation techniques as well.
KidsSmart
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 handling emotions, and relaxation as well. Contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 for more information or to sign up for a program.
deployments Dealing with reality is better than what they may imagine is happening. 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.
powerof 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.
ADFSUPER & ADFCOVER NEW SCHEMES FOR MILITARY SUPER & INSURANCE COVER
A new military superannuation scheme called ‘ADF Super’ along with astatutory death and invalidity scheme known as ‘ADF Cover’ have been introduced. Historically, ADF members could be members of one of two superannuation schemes: the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) scheme (closed to new members from 1991) and the Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme (MSBS), commonly known as Military Super. Both these schemes are now closed to new members. The new ADF Super arrangements now apply to those joining the ADF for the first time on and after 1 July 2016. Other ADF personnel may join ADF Super under the following eligibility criteria: • 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. Note that current DFRDB members are not eligible to transfer to ADF Super.
Members may transfer their accumulated benefits to a new fund at any time. Members will not be required to make personal contributions, unless they wish to do so. 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. With ADF Super, members choose from four investments options: Cash, Income Focused, MySuper Balanced, and Aggressive.
What’s different? ADF Super is now the default fund for anyone joining the permanent ADF for the first time. The scheme is a fully-funded accumulation plan with an employer contribution of 16.4 per cent. ADF Super is underpinned by a new death and invalidity scheme called ADF Cover.
By default, if an investment option is not nominated, contributions will be invested in the MySuper Balanced option, which can be changed later if required. 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.
ADF Cover - Death and Disability 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. Due to the nature of military service, it’s often difficult for members to obtain death and invalidity cover at a reasonable cost. ADF Cover is free to serving members. Members of the ADF automatically receive cover from 1 July 2016 if they are: • Under 60 years of age, • A member of the permanent forces or a continuous fulltime reservist, • Either an ADF Super member, or would have been an ADF. Super member but have chosen to have the 16.4 per cent employer contribution paid to another superannuation fund. Benefits and conditions applying to ADF Cover are detailed on the ADF Super / ADF Cover website at: https://adfsuper.gov.au/adf-cover/
Own a home of your own with DHOAS The Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS) assists current and former Australian Defence Force members and their families to achieve home ownership. Defence appointed the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) as the DHOAS Administrator. You can apply to DVA for a Subsidy Certificate, to confirm eligibility for DHOAS. The subsidy certificate is then provided to one of the three Home Loan Providers appointed by Defence to provide DHOAS home loans. They are: Australian Military Bank Defence Bank Limited (Defence Bank) National Australia Bank (NAB) .
The Scheme aims to encourage ADF recruitment and retention. The longer the period of service, the more entitlement that will be accrued under DHOAS and the longer the assistance is received. To be eligible, ADF members must have served within the last two years of applying for DHOAS, completed a qualifying period of service and accrued a Service credit. Applicants need to take out a DHOAS home loan and meet the Scheme conditions, including occupancy requirements, to receive the monthly subsidy payments. For more information, including calculating subsidy payments go to: www.dhoas.gov.au/
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lifestyle
Gap Year program one year tryout
Young Australians are being encouraged by Assistant Minister for Defence, Michael McCormack to consider a year in the Navy, Army or Air Force. “The Gap Year Program offers young Australians a great adventure from which they can benefit personally and professionally,” Mr McCormack said. “The Year 12 graduates who complete this Program gain valuable training and life-skills. Throughout their year they learn about teamwork and professionalism. They work hard and adapt to new situations and build resilience. “The leadership skills they develop can take them anywhere. But, in past years, after experiencing service life about 80 percent of participants chose to remain in either the Reserve or Permanent ADF workforce,” he said. In 2016 more than 430 young Australians are participating in the ADF Gap Year Program, experiencing life in the Navy, Army or Air Force. “We are making a significant investment in our young people and future defence capability by committing $57.5 million in the Program in 2016-17,” Mr McCormack said. The Program attracts a diverse group of young people from different cultures and backgrounds. More than 40 per cent of applicants for the 2016 Program were women and Defence also sees the potential for the Gap Year to increase the participation of indigenous Australians in the ADF workforce. For more information go to: www.defencejobs.gov.au/education/ gap-year/
healthinsurance POLICIES, BENEFITS & LIFETIME 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 (eg 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.
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 20
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policies across these categories, combined with different levels of excess or co-payments. An excess is an 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 pre-packaged 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.
Lifetime Health Cover Lifetime Health Cover (LHC) is a Government initiative designed to encourage people to take out hospital insurance earlier in life and to maintain their cover. In most cases, your LHC base day is the later of 1 July 2000 or 1 July following your 31st birthday. For example, if you take out hospital cover at age 40 you will pay 20% more than someone who first took out hospital cover at age 30. The maximum loading is 70 per cent. Once you have paid a LHC loading for 10 continuous years, the loading is removed. For more about LHC go to: www.privatehealth.gov.au/
QUEENSLAND
Queensland
Queensland is the second largest state in Australia, nearly five times the size of Japan and seven times the size of Great Britain. Queensland is home to about five million people. Queensland has five of Australia’s eleven World Natural Heritage areas: the Scenic Rim National Parks, Fraser Island, Riversleigh Fossil Fields, the Wet Tropics (including Daintree National Park), and the Great Barrier Reef. More than half of Queensland’s population lives outside the greater metropolitan area of Brisbane - a large proportion compared with the rest of highly urbanised Australia.
Most settlers in Queensland during the 19th century were from Britain and Europe. In recent years there has been an increasing number of new settlers from South-East Asia. The vast majority of Queensland receives an average of between eight and nine hours of sunshine every day. Queensland has more than 1000 species of native vertebrates, many of them unique to the region. The international airline Qantas (Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services) was established in Longreach, Queensland,
in 1920. 2008 was the 20th anniversary of World Expo 88—a landmark event in the history of Brisbane that launched an exciting period of growth and development. There are over 200 national parks in Queensland. Free education was implemented in Queensland in 1870. The first Queensland railway opened in July 1865, from Ipswich to Grandchester. On 18 May 1907, women voted for the first time in a Queensland state election. Brisbane-born pioneer aviator Charles Kingsford Smith and his colleagues completed the first air crossing of the Pacific, from San Francisco to Brisbane, in 1928. Australian poet Banjo Patterson’s verse Waltzing Matilda was first sung publicly at the North Gregory Hotel in Winton, Queensland, on 6 April 1895. Queensland has the only State Parliament in Australia with one House, the Legislative Assembly. The Legislative Council (Upper House) was abolished in 1922. The Royal Flying Doctor Service started operating on 17 May 1928 when pilot Arthur Affleck flew the first flying doctor, Dr Kenyon St Vincent Welch, on the first official flight from Cloncurry to Julia Creek in response to an emergency call.
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education & training
EDUCATION
AND
defence families
Regular interstate transfers and deployments are all part of the job for Defence personnel, but often it’s families who are affected most by transfers, 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 six and a half and 16 years, or completing Year 10. This 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. 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
TRANSFERS to interstate
SCHOOLS
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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 Interstate Student Data Transfer Note (ISDTN) and protocols is a joint initiative between the Australian Government, State and Territory Education Departments, and the independent and Catholic education sectors. ISDTN is a national system for the transfer of student information between schools when children move from one state to another. This national system will enhance the ability of the student’s new school to place and support that student in a timely manner and with the assistance of accurate information from the student’s previous school. Curriculum resource lists and a prospectus containing detailed information on school policies, courses, and enrolment procedures are available from schools. When transferring children between schools, especially interstate: • consider timing - will the move coincide with the change of term?
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. For more information go to www.defence. gov.au/dco.
• 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. All education authorities (including the non-government sector) have implemented this national approach to transferring students between schools.
CATHOLIC EDUCATION TEACHING, CHALLENGING,TRANSFORMING
summerschools Summer Schools are for students in Years 5, 6 & 7 who have been identified through NAPLAN (National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy) as requiring additional help in literacy and numeracy. Summer Schools do not replace the existing support your child receives at school; it 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 children practise 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 feedback).
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.
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a Catholic school for your child
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education & training
The Australian Curriculum how young people learn and shape their tomorrow
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 cross-curriculum 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 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.
Development of the Australian Curriculum establishes expectations including: 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. In a world in which knowledge is constantly growing and evolving, students need to develop skills, behaviours and dispositions, or general capabilities that equip them to be lifelong learners. Then they can operate with confidence in a complex, information-rich, globalised world. The Australian Curriculum is online at www.australiancurriculum.edu.au
Educating young women in the Franciscan tradition
Mount Alvernia College Enrolling now for Year 7 in 2021 Please contact Enrolments Secretary Jodi Walsh (ph 3632 8508) for vacancies in other year levels.
82 Cremorne Road Kedron mta.qld.edu.au
Watch Her Flourish
Mitchelton State High School
Inspiring Individual Excellence Mitchelton State High School successfully blends excellence in academic performance, creative arts and sports. Situated on a leafy 11 hectare site in Mitchelton, it is only a 5 minute drive from Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera. Our Defence Transition Mentor is available to help support our ADF families and students. Mitchelton SHS is a small school where every student’s learning experience is important. For more information or to organise a school tour, please call our office on 3550 1111 or email admin@mitcheltonshs.eq.edu.au Participation | Accountability | Respect
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Queensland School System QUALITY EDUCATION IN A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT
Queensland schools are committed to providing the skills, values and knowledge students need for lifelong learning, employment and to participate in society. Parents can choose to enrol their children in particular types of schools: • Queensland state (public) schools • Independent schools • Catholic schools. (International programs are delivered through Education Queensland International)
Structure Schooling in Queensland starts with a preparatory or Prep Year followed by 12 years of primary and secondary school. Over the 13 years of schooling, students’ studies are focused on the following learning areas: English, mathematics, studies of society and the environment, science, arts, technology, personal development, health and physical education, and languages other than English (ESL). Many Queensland schools also offer English language support to international students. Contact your school to find out what kind of English language support is available.
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.
Prep Year
Secondary school
The Prep Year is a 1 year (full-time) program available to children in the year before they start primary school. Students are encouraged to engage all five senses to form a solid foundation in social, motor, literacy and numeracy skills.
Secondary or high school is the final period of compulsory education for Queensland students. Students are educated from Year 7 to 12. The senior years of education (Year 10–12) are very important for students wishing to progress to university or further study.
Primary school Students form foundational skills and knowledge based on the Curriculum. Students are educated from Year 1 to 6.
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
Qualifications Students who have completed all 12 years of compulsory education from Year 1 to 12 will be eligible to qualify for the Queensland Certificate of Education. An Overall Position or OP is also awarded to eligible students and contributes to a student’s university eligibility.
Assessment Students are assessed on their performance through tasks including: written assignments, oral presentations, practical exercises and demonstrations, texts and examinations, and subject specific tasks. More at www.qld.gov.au/education
ANY MORE LIKE FAMILY AND WE’D SEE YOU OFF AT THE AIRPORT. For travel insurance that treats you like family, visit defencehealth.com.au
Travel insurance is arranged by Defence Health Ltd ABN 80 008 629 481 AFSL 313890. This insurance is issued and managed by AGA Assistance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 trading as Allianz Global Assistance for the insurer Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708. We do not provide any advice on this insurance based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision please consider the Product Disclosure Statement available from defencehealth.com.au. Defence Health Ltd receives commissions in the range of 10–20% of the premium paid.
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education & training
Stay connected with Defence magazine 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. Any questions or feedback may be sent to: DefenceFamilyMatters@defence.gov.au
FUNDS FOR PARTNER
EDUCATION The Defence Community Organisation provides funding for employment and education expenses to assist partners of ADF members to gain qualifications for employment. 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, and 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 assessment 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.
Our Lady of the Assumption All students Australia-wide must complete Year 10 of Catholic Primary School study. After Year 10 and “a community to believe in”
until they turn 17, students Students, staff and parents enjoy a welcoming, vibrant and dynamic must be either in school learning community at Our Lady of the Assumption at Enoggera. full-time, in approved education (Prep-year 6) or training such Its unique character is shaped by: • Technology integrated throughout curriculum • Respect and Responsibility • Easy access to up-to-date technology as TAFE, traineeship or • Support for ADF students and families • A creative curriculum • Exceptional retention rates for our upper primary students • A caring community/ partnership for success apprenticeship, or in fulltime paid employment. 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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BE SAFE AT
schoolies
SCHOOLleaving age 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.
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. 7. Instagram is not necessarily 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.
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education & training
My School
website
The My School website is a government-run website which allows parents and educators to search and compare schools across Australia, and includes a find-a-school function, school performance ratings and profiles, along with links to individual school websites. My School provides information about schools in Australia, letting you see how a school is performing, compared to schools with similar students. My School is a resource for parents, educators and the community to give readily accessible information about each of Australia’s just over 10,000 schools and campuses. My School now has eight years of data enabling fair comparisons to be made among schools serving students from similar socioeducational backgrounds, using the index of community socioeducational advantage (ICSEA). It is ICSEA that enables fair comparisons to be made between schools with similar students. The publication of data on My School allows educators to share information about school achievements and characteristics with the aim of supporting and driving improvement across the nation. For parents, My School provides valuable information to help make informed decisions about their child’s education. New website features include: • the latest profile and population data on each school • outcomes from the 2015 round of NAPLAN testing • eight years of performance data for comparison • an additional measure of student attendance • the latest financial figures on each school, including capital expenditure and sources of funding • an enhanced user experience with an updated look and feel
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NATIONAL ASSESSMENT PROGRAM NAPLAN In May each year, all students in schools and colleges across Australia in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit for the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) test. 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 their child compares with other students in the same year of schooling.
NAP sample assessments NAP sample assessments occur annually on a rolling basis. In 2013, civics and citizenship was tested and in 2014, ICT literacy was tested. Science literacy was tested in 2015. Only a small sample of randomly selected schools participate in the sample assessments, which provide a national snapshot of performance in these three agreed areas of learning. The civics and citizenship test was delivered online for the first time in 2013.
International sample assessments As part of the National Assessment Program, Australia participates in the following international sample assessments: • Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) • Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) • Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS).
Choosing Childcare Services EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
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: the whole day, just mornings, just afternoons, just a few hours each week, or just 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 the centre? Here’s a brief description of the different types of child care.
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.
Child Care Rebate
Family Day Care
In home care is similar to family day care but
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. 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.
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.
In-home Care
Kindergarten Programs
Waiting Lists
Long 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.
Centres may offer a snack as well as the Active After-school Communities exercise program.
Vacation care is outside school hours care that includes indoor and outdoor activities, and may be provided by the same organisation that runs before and afterschool 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.
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.
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education & training
Preparing for Prep BEGINNING THE EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY
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.
National 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. Services must have a Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Item Number. 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 non-cosmetic allied health services and/or used to offset the gap expenses when you visit a specialist. 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/ihealthcare.htm
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 Prepartory Year 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 More information is on the website: www. qld.gov.au/education/earlychildhood/prep/
St Edmund’s College INSPIRING YOUNG MEN SINCE 1892
• Leaders in boys’ education • Strong inclusive community • Inclusive curriculum with appropriate pathways for boys
Call the Coll ege enrolments fo ra personalised tour of the College o r any enquiries – 3810 4448.
16 Mary Street, Woodend, IPSWICH | Phone: (07) 3810 4400 enrolments@sec.qld.edu.au | www.sec.qld.edu.au 30
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Thinking of further education - beyond high school?
educationaltransition Transition is a term to describe movement through the different stages in your child’s education. Transition 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 Year 10 to Year 11. All 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.
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.
Shaping tomorrow’s spirited leaders. West Moreton Anglican College (WestMAC) is a dynamic Prep to Year 12 co-educational Independent Anglican School. The College promotes a well-balanced schooling experience with diverse opportunities that prepare our students for the 21st century’s rapidly changing world.
West Moreton Anglican College WMAC0886
Est 1994
Ipswich Queensland
For a personalised tour of the College, visit www.wmac.com.au or phone (07) 3813 4555. IN PURSUIT OF INDIVIDUAL EXCELLENCE
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education & training
ABOUT VET, TAFE & UNI Each state government within Australia manages the school system within their State. This means that they provide funds and regulations that provide guidance for 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 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. 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 nonuniversity 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. These stakeholders work together to provide nationally consistent training across Australia. Vocational training in schools allows young people to remain enrolled at school while completing education and training programs delivered by other learning providers in the community. These providers include TAFE and other Registered Training Organisations.
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 32
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HELPING YOUR CHILD
COPE WITH HSC 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 in the study process. Periods of stress are frequent in their final year of school. In addition to sitting for the HSC, Year 12 students may be subject to many factors that can produce stress in their lives. They 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 part-time 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.
Practical Support 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.
Positive Environment Less obvious but of equally important are the things you can do to provide a positive and understanding emotional environment: • Be supportive and encouraging 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.
Exam Fears 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.
The 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 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.
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wealth creation
SOUND INVESTMENT PRACTICE requires risk management
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, and that sound investing requires sound advice from qualified professionals. 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 effective long-term wealth creation strategy, enabling growth in the investment’s 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 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.
Expectations What do you expect from your 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 can 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.
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
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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.
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 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 Objectives Think about your investment goals, in the short and long term. Are you investing for
To invest, draw up a clear plan, do your research, build in a margin of safety by always thinking about the valuation and, ultimately, be patient. Include speculative picks if you wish, but ensure they are only a small part of your portfolio. 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.
Inflation Because of inflation, a dollar today will not buy as much as it will ‘tomorrow’. To protect your investments from the impact of inflation you need to achieve 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 Risk 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, 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 having to sell investments at a low market price. By keeping some funds aside in an accessible, short-term investment such as a cash management trust you can avoid this situation.
Financial Planning Sound investment advice is imperative but there is risk associated with choosing the right financial adviser and the right portfolio. 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 Risk 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. Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature and is not intended to be specific advice on financial matters. Financial advice can only be provided by a qualified financial planner.
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Out & About in Queensland Welcome to Queensland, where 300 warm and sunny days a year are the norm... pair that with over 6,000 kilometres of coastal shoreline and you’ll understand why Queenslanders are always so happy. While you’re here why don’t you... Hit the road
Go on an Adventure
Take the road less travelled and explore Queensland via car on a scenic drive. Whether it’s the Great Tropical Drive in North Queensland, the Savannah Way from Cairns to Normanton or Overlander’s Way in the Gulf Country region, you’re bound to discover an array of hidden treasures Queensland has to offer. Don’t like sitting in the car for that long? The Scenic Rim, Gold Coast Hinterland and Coastal Drive at the Sunshine Coast offer shorter routes that are perfect for day trips.
Dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef – it’s closer (and more amazing) than you think! Hang ten on one of the legendary surf breaks on the Gold Coast or learn to surf at a family friendly beach on the Sunshine Coast. Venture west to see big red, Birdsville or attend one of the weird and wonderful Outback events like the Yabby Races in Windorah or Boulia Camel Races. Throw on your hiking gear and trek through a tropical rainforest or chase a waterfall or two. Sail The Whitsundays for a once-in-a-lifetime waterfront experience. Get your Cultural Fix Eat your way from Southern Queensland Country up to the Atherton Tablelands where the paddock to plate movement is in full swing. Cruise your way along the South Bank cultural precinct in Brisbane, where you’ll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and the Gallery of Modern Art to name a few. Get tickets to one of the premier Queensland events like the Noosa Food and Wine Festival or the Woodford Folk Festival.
Seek thrills Consider yourself a thrill seeker? Why not visit the array of theme parks on offer at the Gold Coast! With water slides, rollercoasters, animal attractions or live performances you’re after, there’s something for everyone. Explore Brisbane from a different angle – from the rocks of Kangaroo Point, in a kayak gliding along the Brisbane River or for a real adrenaline rush, climb the Story Bridge! For a birds eye view of the state, skydive over Queensland’s best beaches including Airlie Beach, Bribie Island, the Fraser Coast and of course, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts. 36
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Get competitive Whether you like to be a spectator or get involved yourself, Queensland has so many opportunities for the sporting junkie. For the keen athlete, there are several events to partake in across the state including the Gatorade Queensland Triathlon Series, Tough Mudder and the Mile Ocean Swim series. If you’d rather watch the action unfold, there’s horse racing, football, soccer, car racing, cricket, surfing.. and more!
Embrace Indigenous culture Want to learn more about indigenous art, or going bush wanting to inject a touch of culture into your time in Queensland? Then go bush with an Indigenous guide at the Mossman Gorge Centre and be enchanted by the stories and heritage of the traditional owners of the gorge. Listen to the tales behind contemporary art and traditional rock paintings left by past generations. Head to Carnarvon National Park where Aboriginal history is revealed through the park’s rock art sites. Visit Thursday Island. As well as being a top fishing spot, you can experience the island culture of the Torres Strait Islanders here. Be pampered with indigenous inspired spa treatments set in the beautiful Daintree Rainforest.
Meet the wildlife Cuddle up to some of our cuddly creatures – koalas, kangaroos, wombats and bilbys – on a tour through their native habitat or at one of the many sanctuaries around the state. Wave hello to the migrating humpback whales in Hervey Bay from June through to October. Watch the circle of life happen right in front of you during turtle season at Mon Repos from October through February. There are many more venues offering closeup interaction with Australia’s wildlife. Check with local tourist centres for details.
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. Why not beat the traffic and take a relaxing trip up and down the Brisbane River and take in the sights and sounds of the city and its riverbank attractions.
Brisbane GATEWAY TO QUEENSLAND
Southeast Queensland is one of the most popular Defence posting destinations in Australia because of the lifestyle, weather and employment opportunities for Defence family members. These families tend to live in three main areas: Brisbane, Ipswich and the Darling Downs. Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and the state’s most populous city. It is the third most populous city in Australia. The metropolitan area has a population of 2.5 million. The Brisbane central business district stands on the original European settlement situated inside a bend of the Brisbane River. 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. 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. Brisbane was 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, the city played a central role in the Allied campaign 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. With its domesic and international airports and central railway stations for interstate visitiors, Brisbane is seen as a gateway to the tourist centres of the South and North Coasts, Toowoomba and western Queensland.
Art and Cultural Precinct Brisbane is the centre of culture in Queensland. 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. GOMA also boasts Australia’s largest purposebuilt Cinémathèque, and is located next to the State Library. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), located at South Bank, colocates 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.
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 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 stages performances at the Roundhouse Theatre at Kelvin Grove. Other theatres 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.
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Ipswich
Welcome to Ipswich MAYOR PAUL PISASALE On behalf of all residents I extend a warm welcome to personnel and their families recently posted to RAAF Base Amberley in the City of Ipswich. Our region is forging ahead with the current Ipswich population approaching 200,000. This is predicted to increase to 520,000 by 2041. 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 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 the tremendous facilities Ipswich has to offer. 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 Ipswich.qld.gov.au and Discover Ipswich Discoveripswich. com.au are great places to learn more about our great city and what’s on around the region. Welcome to the Ipswich family. We look forward to enjoying your company soon.
Mayor Paul Pisasale
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Ipswich WORLD CLASS, LIVEABLE CITY
Ipswich is centrally located in the booming south east Queensland region . To the east is the capital city Brisbane and to the west the rural and agricultural areas of the Brisbane, Lockyer and Fassifern Valleys. Ipswich has a population of more than 200,000 people. Ipswich is ideally positioned on the national road network, 30 minutes drive from Brisbane, an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast and 60 minutes drive from domestic and international air and sea ports. The greater Ipswich region comprises an area of 1090 square kms and enjoys a subtropical climate. It is a safe, friendly and multicultural city, with residents coming from more than 100 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. Southeast of Ipswich Central is the rapidly growing Springfield area and the initial stages of the Ripley Valley corridor. These additions are adding thousands of families annually to the Ipswich population and its economy. Ipswich is an exciting place to live, work, invest and visit. Education plays an important role in the local economy with two university campuses 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. Ipswich hosts regular national and local festivals and events such as the Ipswich Cup - the city’s annual major horseracing carnival, drag racing’s finest at the Winternationals at Willowbank Raceway, 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. A booming Ipswich future is assured.
City of Ipswich Where lifestyle meets opportunity With over 500 parks and conservation estates including the heritage listed Queens Park and Nature Centre, Ipswich is a city that offers unrivalled variety for you and your family. Enjoy the award winning Orion Lagoon at Springfield Central, visit the heart of the City and revel in the cultural experiences on offer at the Ipswich Art Gallery or take a journey of relaxation and discovery at the Japanese inspired Nerima Gardens.
Join us online on:
Ipswich.qld.gov.au
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Save the Date Ipswich 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. u 4 – 14 May 2017.
CMC Rocks
SOS K9 Pet Retreat & Train provide a premium level of pet boarding, specialist training & in home pet care at one of the Largest Boarding Facilities in Ipswich. • Defence posting moves • Dog Boarding • Pets & Working Dogs • Doggy Daycare
• Breeding Services • Cuddley Cattery • Specialty Services • Dog Training & More
Visit our website for information & Pricing: www.sosk9.com.au Find us on Facebook for daily photos of your pets 8 Kelly Rd, Blacksoil, QLD, 4306 P: 07 3201 8178
Global superstars, The Dixie Chicks will return to Australia for the first time in over ten years to headline CMC Rocks QLD’s 10th Anniversary! CMC Rocks, the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest country and roots music festival, is back again in 2017 at the picturesque Willowbank Raceway site in south-east Queensland in March. The lineup is set to rock the festival with many local and international artists on the bill including Lee Kernaghan, Adam Harvey, The McClymonts, Morgan Evans, Kip Moore (USA), Charles Esten (Deacon Claybourne from hit US TV show Nashville), The Shires (UK), and more. u Friday 24 - Sunday 26 March 2017.
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
Ipswich Show Celebrating its 144th year, the Ipswich Show will again take place at the Ipswich Showgrounds. The program is jam packed with events and entertainment for a great day out. From displays like farm animals, wood chopping and the Young Talent and Miss Showgirl competitions, families will be entertained and thrilled every day of the Show. The Ipswich Show also includes all of the traditional show favourites: a side-show alley, showbags,, rides, roving performers, an international food court and fireworks! u 19 – 21 May 2017
Learn to Swim at Ramsay Swim
Providing your most valuable asset with a skill which will keep them alive 4 Vivian Street Eastern Heights Qld 4305 Ph: 3281 7003 www.ramsayswim.com.au
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Learning to swim and be safe in the water is so important for children of all ages. The water skills learnt as children will stay with them, and built upon, into adulthood and beyond. Ramsay Swim provides Learn to Swim lessons from six months of age. Students are able to swim all year round in their indoor heated facility which caters for all ages and abilities. The aim at the swim centre is to create a safe, friendly and enjoyable environment where children learn to develop potentially life-saving water safety skills and stroke development, while increasing their physical and social capabilities. To achieve this, the teachers are highly trained and suitably qualified in accordance with government statutory requirements. Ramsay Swim operates all year round based on the four Queensland State Education School terms. For more information go to ramsayswim.com.au or call 3281 7003.
Supercars Ipswich Supersprint
The V8 Supercars Championship is set to heat up on the final weekend in July at Queensland Raceway. This is a great motorsport experience, with great trackside viewing, displays and merchandise, family zone, easy parking and the Dunlop Series. u Friday 28 – Sunday 30 July.
The Winter Harvest Festival 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 17th 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. The Ipswich Cup has become one of the most attended racing carnival days in Queensland. u Saturday 17 June 2017.
The Winter Harvest Festival is a fabulous day out for families and food lovers. Taste the food, meet the producers, watch the cooking demonstrations and feast from the Scenic Rim’s smorgasbord of fresh produce. Held in Aratula, the event is the highlight of the Eat Local Week - June 24th to July 2nd. u Saturday 1 July 2017.
Goodna Jacaranda Festival The Goodna Jacaranda Festival is held at Evan Marginson Park, Goodna the final 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. u Friday 27 – Sunday 29 October.
Ipswich Adventist School Nestled in beautiful bushland next door to Brassall Shopping Centre, Ipswich Adventist School is maturing as an exceptional, wellloved school specialising in high quality Christian primary education. A true gem in Brassall, caring and experienced teachers provide holistic education Kindy to Grade 6. The school provides a warm and welcoming environment where children thrive. Students participate in frequent service activities which builds confidence and opportunities for selfexpression. The teachers know every student by name and support them as they develop towards their full potential, making them stand out from the rest. Our special character, embodied in ‘The Spirit of IAS’ values, includes faith in God, respect, responsibility, honesty and truthfulness, care and compassion, tolerance and inclusion, doing your best and integrity. These principles form the basis of all students’ behaviour and are integral to their safe, motivated learning environment. The school cultivates a depth of learning, social interaction and level of participation that is not always possible in larger schools. The classrooms are learner-centred, with strong emphasis on individualised planning, small group instruction and opportunities for peer collaboration. Ipswich Adventist School welcomes people of all faiths who value their Christian ethos. Are you thinking about becoming part of our vibrant IAS community? Come and see us.
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Ipswich
Springfield FASTEST GROWTH IN SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND
Located between Brisbane and Ipswich Central, Greater Springfield has become one of Australia’s fastest growing master-planned centres.
PRIVATE TOURS
Wednesday 26 October
BY APPOINTMENT
9.00am – 12.00noon ST PETERS LUTHERAN COLLEGE SPRINGFIELD
discover ST PETERS Kindergarten to Year 12 at Springfield... St Peters Lutheran College Springfield is a Christian co-educational school with a focus on academic excellence and community.
CONTACT US TODAY TO BOOK YOUR PRIVATE TOUR TEL: 07 3470 3888 OR EMAIL: s.enrolments@stpeters.qld.edu.au St Peters Lutheran College Springfield, 42 Wellness Way, Springfield Central FOR FURTHER INFORMATION phone 3470 3888 or email s.enrolments@stpeters.qld.edu.au
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With the included areas of Springfield, Springfield Lakes, Brookwater and Augustine Heights, this major centre in the greater Ipswich region is bringing together the very best in business, ICT, education, health, retail and entertainment to one central location. Springfield is attracting a mix of young families and those who want to get away from the hectic pace of the city. Current population of Greater Springfield is more than 32,000 with an estimated population of 130,000+ 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 in 41 minutes. At the heart of the city is Springfield Central Parklands, where families can relax and enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle, featuring bike and walking trails, picnic spots, boardwalks, and kids play areas. Collocated is Orion Lagoon, a series of wading and
swimming pools in a park complex, attracting record numbers. Education City includes USQ Springfield, Bremer TAFE, St Peters Lutheran College and a number of other providers. Springfield is also the 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. Now underway is the $550 Million Dusit Thani Resort (Stage 1) next to the Greg Norman designed Brookwater Golf Club, which is expected to focus worldwide interest in the Springfield region.
Trust your pet’s care to Ipswich Vet Group Whether you are new to Ipswich or have lived here for years, one local business has been caring for the pets of the area for almost 50 years: Ipswich Vet Group Owners Dr Craig Render, Dr Jason Wendt and Dr Scott Campbell between them have over 60 years of Veterinary experience, and have over the years built a reliable and solid team of staff who are there to take the stress out of caring for your pet. Booval Veterinary Hospital is honoured to have the privilege of providing veterinary care for the Military Working Dogs and Explosive Detector Dogs at RAAF Base Amberley, where they have also facilitated field emergency care training with the Military Working Dog Handlers along with carrying out annual health checks and role specific vaccinations. The Booval Vet Hospital over the years has grown to become the largest and longest-serving clinic in the area. Located just near the Booval train station, the clinic is open 7 days a week, including till 8pm on weekdays. They are open every day of the year (except Christmas Day) for your convenience. “We have a fantastic team of motivated, compassionate vets and nurses with between them over a century of experience in the industry, all of who are dedicated to the health and wellbeing of their patients. They will care for your pet as they would their own,” said co-owner and Veterinarian Dr Craig Render. Some of the services offered by the team at each of the 3 clinics owned and operated by Ipswich Vet Group include: * Health Checks * Desexing * Vaccinations * Microchipping * In-house laboratory * Digital X-ray and Ultrasound * ECG, Blood Pressure and Oxygen Saturation monitoring * Emergency Care For all your pet needs, contact your closest Ipswich Vet Group Clinic for your convenience.
All TYPES OF MECHANICAL Repairs Total WHEEL ALIGNMENT Service
CARS • 4W-Ds & TRAILERS Open to the Public Authorised Inspection Station • Log book Servicing • Wheel Alignments • Air Conditioning • General Repairs • Windscreen Repairs • Early Bird Drop Off • Pick up and Delivery Service • •
37 Southern Amberley Road, AMBERLEY 4306 admin@eadiesmechanical.com.au www.eadiesmechanical.com.au
Eadie’s Mechanical Eadie’s Mechanical is a family owned and operated workshop that has served Ipswich and the Defence community since 1971. Their current premises is just 500 metres from the main gate at RAAF Amberley. Location, affordability and friendly service make Eadie’s an easy choice for vehicle maintenance and repair. Eadie’s mechanics can work on any make or model of vehicle, from a little European hatch back to a Prime Mover - and everything in between, including stamping your maintenance books to maintain your vehicle’s warranty. Eadie’s specialise in Air Conditioning and Wheel Alignments and are also an Approved Inspection Station for registration inspections. Onsite there’s the latest diagnostics tools and a 150T Press to help with any pressing needs. Call Steve and the Team today on 07 5464 3413 for an obligation free quote or to make a booking.
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Ipswich
Building a home in the Western Corridor
Ipswich Art Gallery Ipswich Art Gallery is a must-see attraction in southeast Queensland located 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
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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.
Looking to build a home in the Brisbane West region? Stroud Homes Brisbane West are a group of licensed and local builders, each with years of personal design and building experience. They are experts in the local area and are accustomed to the demands of the local councils and land developers. It is quick and easy for Stroud Homes to provide you with a package that fits your land, budget and family. With over 60 individual plans, they’ll find a home design to suit your every need and requirement or modify an existing plan of theirs to ensure the perfect fit. A local himself, Jason Till from Stroud Homes is proud to be part of the booming region as more and more people choose the western corridor to call home for its affordability, employment opportunities and close proximity to Brisbane. The Ipswich district offers some superb options for everything from compact, maintenance free duplexes to family homes and even sprawling acreage designs. “With wide frontages and huge street appeal, along with well thought out plans, it’s not hard to see why Stroud Homes designs are so sought after,” Jason said. If you want to become one of the many new families calling this region home, talk to the team at Stroud Homes Brisbane West. Browse the available house and land packages in the region at www.stroudhomes. com.au/brisbane-west-home-builder/ house-land-packages/, or give Jason a call on 0438554320.
*for defence members only. Not available with any other offer.
LOCAL BUILDER, QUALITY HOMES Come see our award winning Wildflower display home
Fully Loaded Standard Inclusions • • • • • • •
20mm Caesarstone Benchtops Throughout 900mm Westinghouse Stainless Steel Oven, Cooktop and Range Hood Dishlex Stainless Steel Dishwasher Andersens Carpet with 10mm Underlay & 450mm Designer Tiles Throughout Remote Control Panel Lift Garage BHP Colorbond Steel Roof, Gutters and Fascia We support local suppliers and trades
BRISBANE WEST OFFICE: 174 Brisbane Street, Ipswich QLD 4305 Call Jason on 0438 554 320 – www.stroudhomes.com.au
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY C.J. VOGLER & SON ESTABLISHED 1877
utting Keyc ies Hobb dels st Mo a C Die
Brigidine College Indooroopilly A Catholic Girls’ Secondary College
Face the future with confidence Enrol now (07) 3870 7225 www.brigidine.qld.edu.au
138-140 Brisbane St, Ipswich Q 4305 P: 07 3281 1440 F: 07 3281 0166 E: cjvogler@bigpond.com W: www.voglers.com.au
Grant Hamilton-Ritchie
BDSc FRACDS MDSc MRACDS (Ortho)
Caring for Adults and Children Ipswich’s only full time Specialist Orthodontist No travelling to Brisbane 13 South Street Ipswich 4305 Ph: 3812 0865 www.ipswichorthodontics.com.au
Improve your child’s learning performance Kip McGrath tuition re-builds confidence and improves learning in... Maths, English, Reading and Spelling
FREE ASSESSMENT PH 07 3281 3668
E ipswich@kipmcgrath.com.au M: 0414861299 Shop 4 43-49 Downs Street NORTH IPSWICH QLD 4305
PROPRIETORS
Open 7 days - deliveries Mon to Sat Local and Australia Wide Our friendly experienced staff can advise you on all your floral needs. Stevensons Florist I P: 3288 0373 Shop 22, 502-510 Warwick Road, Yamanto Village www.stevensonsflorist.com.au
B & R CRIBBENS FREE Lessons with every Sewing Machine Specialising in Australian and Oriental Fabrics
Pring Street Dental Dr. Andrew Josey (Dentist)
• great customer service • top quality products • affordable prices • finest smallgoods products in Australia
Dr. Daniel Busch (Dentist)
79 McRoyal Street Wacol QLD 4076 Ph: 3423 5230
DefenceLife DefenceLife 2017 EDITION
LIFESTYLE FAMILY MATTERS MILITARY LIFE LOCATIONS
EDUCATION
SCHOOLING OPTIONS STATE BY STATE
FUTURE
CAREER OPTIONS POST-ADF CAREER
50,000+ READERSHIP
CPL TAHLIA NEWBY TERTIARY STUDY WITH DASS
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PHONE: (07) 5464 5174
40 FLAMETREE COURT, WALLOON
OPEN 7 DAyS
Ph: 07 3281 6950
Email: cribbens@bigpond.com
RELOCATIONS | SUPPORT | EDUCATION CAREER | EMPLOYMENT | TRANSITION
Enclosed Heated Pool & Solar Heated Lap Pool
FRIENDLy SERVICE PLENTy OF PARKING
271 Brisbane Street, Ipswich Q 4305
DEFENCE FAMILIES
Babies to Adults Teach - Learn to Swim to Squads
•Birds •Kittens •Puppies •Guinea Pigs •Snakes •Scorpions •Turtles •Spiders •Lizards •Fish (cold/tropical) •Mice & Rats •Hermit Crabs •Bulk Seed and Produce •Pet Meat •Premium Dog/Cat Food
Sewing Machines • Overlockers • Cabinets Repairs to all Brands
LIFESTYLE GUIDE FOR AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FAMILIES
(AUST SWIM QUALIFIED)
FOR ALL yOuR PET NEEDS
SEWING MACHINES SALES & REPAIRS PTY LTD
FACTORY OUTLET STORE
STEPHEN & MICHELLE SAWYERS
PRINT | DIGITAL SOCIAL MEDIA
14 PRING ST IPSWICH
Ph. 3281 4425
BOOK NOW FOR 2018 DefenceLife is the only magazine that connects directly with Defence personnel and families
www.ipswichpetaquarium.com.au 7 Hooper Street, West Ipswich 4305
Ph: (07) 3281 3122
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Linda Hann info@strikepublications.com.au
07 3282 9019 www.defencelife.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. Entry is free for Queensland schools during Queensland schools hours. Non-Queensland school students visiting as part of a school group and all school group visits outside schools hours are admitted at $10.50 per student.
For a stress free relocation trust Metro Hotel Ipswich International
Metro Hotel Ipswich International – perfect for an extended stay For Defence personnel looking to relocate their families to Ipswich, Metro Hotel Ipswich International offers 97 rooms at competitive long stay rates, for families looking for a ‘home away from home’ while they search for more permanent accommodation in Ipswich. The hotel offers a range of accommodation including 11 fully contained apartments with cooking facilities, which are excellent for longer stays. Centrally located in the heart of Ipswich, the hotel is close to schools, shopping and the Civic Centre. Families will love the Topof-Town strip of trendy cafes, wine bars and fashion boutiques located just a few minutes walk from the hotel. The Riverlink Mall, a 10 minute walk from the hotel, has a wide variety of retail stores, more eateries and cinemas. Ipswich has more than 500 parks, with Queens Park offering a great playground, plenty of free barbecues and free entry into the Ipswich Nature Centre. A visit to the Workshops Rail Museum is also a must. Everything Ipswich has to offer is easily accessed from the hotel, and staff are on hand to help families with advice on where the good restaurants are located, finding a good hairdresser, giving directions and generally helping Defence families settle in. To find out more, visit www.metrohotels. com.au or call the hotel on (07) 3812 8077.
home
A home away from
Self-contained apartments On site restaurant & bar Security access On site parking Central city location Long stay discounted rates www.metrohotels.com.au P: 07 3812 8077 E: ipswich@metrohg.com
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Kitsch Swich
Ipswich
in the
RETRO FASHION FIESTA
Why happy pets stay at Imparra Pet Motel? • Fully covered & insulated kennels with grassed yards • Resort Rooms with air conditioning, TVs & private grassed courtyards • Paws Playground and Pool Park • ‘Lil Dawgy’ Fun House, for under 10kg dogs • Air conditioned cattery with individual indoor and outdoor verandah runs • ‘Pampa and Purrr’ Playground for extra personal playtimes • Pickup and delivery service • Every pet is personally monitored by caring animal loving staff Imparra Pet Motel is a proud family owned and operated establishment and welcome inspections. For further enquiries, visit www.imparra. com.au or call 07 5464 6758.
Happy Pets stay at
IMPARRA
PET MOTEL
Calling all Vintage Vixens and you Retro Rockabillies - Kitsch in the Swich is back in September 2017. 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!
It’s lonely at home when your family goes away! We offer lots of cuddles, playtime & kisses goodnight. Inspection Encouraged. Pick-up and delivery service
CUSTOM EXHAUST SPECIALIST • Log Book Service • All Mechanical Repairs • Brakes & Clutch • RWC • Suspensions & Shock Absorbers • Safety Inspections • 4X4 Accessories • Performance Products (Cold Air Induction)
EXHAUSTS
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
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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 popular with walkers and cyclists, and allows people to view the Bremer River from a close vantage point that’s not been seen before.” So cool down at the water park.
Do you love your pet?
451 Ipswich-Boonah Rd, Purga, Ipswich Ph: 07 5464 6758 5klms from Woolworths, Yamanto. www.imparra.com.au
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Make a splash at River Heart Parklands
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COUNTRY LIFESTYLE, CITY AMENITIES With its rich agricultural history and proud country town vibe, the township of Rosewood is aiming to become a city centre in its own right. Rosewood is wholeheartedly embracing future growth and development in the region. Situated just west of Ipswich CBD, Rosewood is a semi-rural town an hour’s drive to Brisbane and close to the picturesque Scenic Rim. With support from residents, Councillor David Pahlke and Ipswich City Council, Rosewood is looking forward to population growth and an influx of new residents into the town.
History In 1865, the first railway in Queensland was built through the Rosewood area, beginning at Ipswich and ending at Grandchester. This was the first section of a railway line that would eventually carry produce from the Darling Downs region to the port of Brisbane.
Ipswich Little Theatre re-enact the first rail journey from Ipswich to Bigges Camp [Grandchester], 1965. Image courtesy of Picture Ipswich.
The railway brought immediate development to the area, with workers and their families living near the line during construction. Small townships later sprang up around stations and stopping destinations. In the 1860s, the Queensland Parliament passed several Acts to encourage people to overtake land. In the following twenty years, new settlers cleared the Rosewood Scrub and converted it to farms. Many of these early settlers were German families who gained a reputation for hard work and honesty. Coal mining began near Walloon in 1877 and became a major industry in the Rosewood region, along with dairying. Both industries have declined since the 1950s.
Rosewood Today Present day Rosewood is a vastly different scenario, with the region’s focus now largely on rural residential development. Cr David Pahlke, who has been a proud resident of Rosewood for 30 years, describes the town as “your typical Australian country town” that is often quoted as being a time warp or small cocoon. Despite this view, the town has big plans for the future, with plans to redevelop the main street of Rosewood, John Street. “Rosewood has something most Ipswich suburbs don’t have, and Councillor David Pahlke joins in the fun of the that’s a main street,” Cr Rosewood Festival. Pahlke said. “For day to day liveabilty, we have everything. Unless you require specialty services or shops you don’t need to leave town. And with a variety of sporting and community groups, a golf and bowls club, employment opportunities and market-driven affordable housing, it’s a lovely community.”
Re-enactment of the days of Cobb & Co coaches.
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COUNTRY LIFEST YLE, CIT Y AMENITIES Rosewood’s population of about 3000 people is expected to increase markedly with residential growth in the near future, and this quiet country town is working on major redevelopments. The most exciting project is a $6.7 million community library expected to open late 2019. “At the moment, we have a reputation for being a boutique shopping destination and an op-shop heaven, attracting tourists from Ipswich, Brisbane and beyond,” Cr Pahlke said. “We want to expand on that with the development of shops in the vacant RT Edwards block. “I’d love to also see more coffee shops because that’s what drives tourism to boutique towns.” In addition to these planned expansions, Cr Pahlke is hoping to update the town’s hub, with landscaping in the near future. “After looking at other similar small towns, I’ve noticed Rosewood is crying out for landscaping and beautification treatment,” he said. Rosewood is a suitable destination for any family to call home, but with a 13 minute commute to the RAAF Base at Amberley it is also perfect for Defence families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of larger towns for a more peaceful life.
With two primary schools and a high school, the town is also a stone’s throw away from West Moreton Anglican College and Faith Lutheran College. Rosewood is connected to Brisbane and the Ipswich CBD by the Centenary Highway, and the Rosewood Rail Line enables an easy commute to Brisbane and Ipswich.
Things to Do There are some excellent attractions in the region including: . Tallegalla Cemetery . Marburg Pacing . Marburg Dance . Woodlands Conference Centre . Cobb & Co Route . Grandchester Railway Station . Grandchester Sawmill . Grandchester Model Steam Railway . Rosewood Hotel Ghost . Grandchester School 132 years old . Babies of Walloon . Spicers Hiddenvale Resort . Walloon Saloon . St Brigids Church Rosewood . Willowbank Drags . Rosewood Railway Musuem . RAAF Base Amberley . Willowbank Raceway V8 Track . Henry Lawson Park - Home of Ipswich Poetryfeast With the township’s major plans for redevelopment on top of its preexisting plethora of services and amenities, it is apparent that the future of Rosewood is both a secure and exciting one. Above: Students at West Moreton Anglican College. Below: Rosewood Station has regular Queensland Rail train services.
Proudly supporting your local community, 365 days a year ET
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For more details visit www.drakes.com.au
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Rosewood 44 John Street Ph 5461 6000
Spectacular Scenic Rim One of the great attractions close to Rosewood is the spectacular Scenic Rim, which is an area of great beauty and surprising diversity. 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.
Ph: 5464 1453 Fax: 5467 9155 Services we offer: - Free Local Delivery - Webster Packing Service - In Home Sleep Apnoea Testing - NDSS - Home Medication Reviews - Free Blood Pressure Monitoring - Home Health Hire and Sales Rosewood Pharmacy Shop 6/40 John Street Rosewood QLD 4340 www.footespharmacies.com
Big enough for choices Small enough to care. ROSEWOOD STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL
SCHOOL STREET, ROSEWOOD QLD 4340
Ph: 07 5461 9333
www.rosewoodss.eq.edu.au
In pursuit of ex cellence
Rosewood State High School Rosewood State High School is: • a creative, challenging and stimulating school • an inclusive school • a welcoming, happy and safe school • a distinctive school • a clean and green school • a school in productive partnership with the community • an active and healthy school • a school with capable, flexible and talented staff For more information visit our website: www.rosewoodshs.eq.edu.au or our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/rosewoodstatehighschool/ CALL NOW FOR AN ENROLMENT INTERVIEW 46 Lanefield Road, Rosewood Ph: 07 5461 9400
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Toowoomba QUEENSLAND’S GARDEN CITY
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 new arrivals decide to call home, they will be only a short drive away from first class shopping, medical, educational, cultural, entertainment and recreation facilities, those expected of a modern, progressive region. Toowoomba City boasts three major hospitals while several smaller hospitals are located across 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-
Fairholme
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 sportsminded residents and visitors; from eightyear-olds to eighty-year-olds. The Toowoomba region is home to two military bases. Borneo Barracks at Cabarlah, 20 kilometres north of Toowoomba, has been 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.
College TOOWOOMBA
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Adjacent to the base is the excellent Museum of Army Aviation which is open to the public and hosts an annual fly-in. Whether Defence personnel are posted to Borneo Barracks or Oakey, they will appreciate the choice of lifestyles, facilities and services available in the region. Toowoomba is also a regional destination serving Queensland’s western towns and centres. The city is home to first class schools and colleges, government and private, that cater for the local and regional populus. Located on the soil rich Darling Downs, Toowoomba is known for its beautiful gardens and tree-lined streets, and each year locals and visitors alike celebrate with the Carnival of Flowers held in the city during Spring. The city now has its own commercial airport and has seen unprecedented growth in recent years.
Things to see
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.
Japanese Gardens
Cobb & Co Museum
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
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’. Check the 2017 date at www.tcof.com.au.
Part of the Queensland Museum, the Cobb & Co Museum is home to the National Carriage Collection which features nearly 50 horse-drawn 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.
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 to crack a whip or be a blacksmith. Enjoy billy tea and damper. 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.
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Townsville TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND LIFESTYLE
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 low-set 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.
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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 close encounter with the Great Barrier Reef reveals astounding underwater attractions, including more than 400 species of coral, sponges, molluscs, rays, dolphins and tropical fish, sea turtles and giant clams.
Townsville is home to more than 200 types of birds, around 20 types of reptiles. The Australian Festival of Chamber Music is an international chamber music festival held over ten days each July in Townsville. The region has many renowned festivals. The Annual Greek and Italian Festivals are popular with the locals and tourists alike. The Townsville South hotel and restaurant strip hosts an annual Palmer Street Jazz Festival, as does nearby Magnetic Island (The Great Tropical Jazz Party). The Stable on the Strand is celebrated each Christmas. Townsville was the stunning setting for the state-of-the-art futuristic city in the 2015 novel, ‘A Tango with the Dragon.’
City Vibe
Ocean Swims
The Strand Townsville’s Strand is without a doubt a must do whilst visiting north Queensland. It 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 are 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
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. The Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim starts at waters edge, in front of the Picnic Bay SLSC, Magnetic Island and finishes at water’s edge, in front of the SLSC Clubhouse on the Strand Beach adjacent to the Strand Park jetty in Townsville. A total distance of 8 km.
Nowhere else in Australia can visitors 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.
Offering Secondary Schooling in 2017 Enrolling Prep to Year 10 in 2017
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 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
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Northern Territory
Darwin ‘TOP END’OF AUSTRALIA
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 and tropical lifestyle. 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 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. On 1 July, Territorians celebrate Territory Day. This is the only day of the year, apart
from the Chinese New Year and New Year’s Eve, when fireworks are permitted. The main celebrations occur at Mindil Beach The Darwin Festival held annually, includes comedy, dance, theatre, music, film and visual art and the NT Indigenous Music Awards. Other festivals include the Glenti, which showcases Darwin’s large Greek community, and India@Mindil, a similar festival held by the smaller Indian community. The Chinese New Year is also celebrated with great festivity, highlighting the Asian influence in Darwin. Weekly markets include Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, Parap Market, Nightcliff Markets and Rapid Creek market.
Welcome from Darwin Mayor Katrina Fong Lim Welcome to Darwin and the Top End of Australia. 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. City of Darwin prides itself on the services it offers 56
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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
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
Year 10 Curriculum
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 are in Transition for up to 12 months. Students attend primary school until they complete Year 6. For Years 7 to 12, children attend secondary school.
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 me the Year 9 achievement standards.
Senior Secondary Schooling Senior secondary students work towards the Northern Territory Certificate of Education. 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
School leaving age
the implementation of subsequent Australian Curriculum learning areas and subjects.
NT Curriculum Framework The Northern Territory Curriculum Framework identifies learning outcomes for all Northern Territory students from Transition to Year 10. NTCF outcomes have been re-constructed into achievement standards to enable a consistent assessment and reporting methodology with Australian Curriculum achievement standards.
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 factor 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.
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NORTHERN TERRITORY
Education across the Northern Territory
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
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.
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.
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
THE ESSINGTON INTERNATIONAL SENIOR COLLEGE
CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY
A unique, quality, senior secondary college providing a smooth transition and orientation to university and post secondary courses. 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
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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.
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 DAY 19 FEBRUARY 2017
National Day of Observance On 19 February 2017 the City of Darwin will host events to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin during World War II. The tumuluous events of 1942 were the first and most devastating attacks on Australian soil by a foreign power. The National Day of Observance ensures that our older generation has the opportunity to pass the baton of remembrance to younger Australians, so our nation never forgets the horrors of war and the value of peace. The City of Darwin extends a warm welcome to join with the city at a Commemorative Service at The Cenotaph starting at 9.30am, also the Ecumenical Service at the Adelaide River War Cemetery, Monday 20 February at 11am.
History The Bombing of Darwin began just before 10am on 19 February 1942 when Japanese forces launched air raids. In the first attack, Nakajima B5N ‘Kate’ bombers hit shipping, infrastructure and the city centre; while Aichi D3A ‘Val’ dive bombers escorted by A6M ‘Zero’ fighters attacked shipping in the harbour, military installations and civil aerodromes.
A second raid, which began just before noon, involved 27 Japanese G3M and 27 G4M aircraft, bombed the Royal Australian Air Force base north of the city. More than 260 enemy planes, including land-based bombers and planes flying off aircraft carriers in the Timor Sea, attacked United States and Australian shipping, the city’s harbour, military and civil aerodromes and the local hospital. In the two raids 235 people were killed and up to 400 wounded. Thirty aircraft were destroyed, nine ships in the harbour and two outside were sunk, and civil and military facilities in Darwin destroyed.
Darwin, February 1942. Australian troops inspect bomb damage caused by Japanese air raids.
The air attacks continued for almost two years, which also affected Townsville, Katherine, Wyndham, Derby, Broome and Port Hedland, with about half of Darwin’s population ultimately fleeing south. The attacks on Darwin were shocking and brought the war home to Australia. The air raids on sovereign territory changed Australia forever, defining a tragic moment in our history, but it also highlights the courage and tenacity of the Australian Spirit. The National Day of Observance each year commemorates courage under fire.
A Darwin house (pictured April 2, 1943) damaged by a bomb dropped during a Japanese raid when at least 14 planes were shot down.
For more information about Darwin’s National Day of Observance please visit www.frontlineaustralia.com.au, Facebook, Twitter, or phone 08 8930 0300 to stay up to date with programs and services.
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New South Wales
New South Wales is Australia’s most diverse State, home to the country’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Sydney. Sparkling beaches stretch from north to south, it has a vast colourful outback, and Australia’s highest mountain offering every type of snow sport. Visit the capital 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 easyto-reach, inner-city beaches. Catch a ferry or take a harbour cruise along the Sydney Harbour, where you’re sure to get the best views of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. For a free carnival style experience, visit Luna Park! Enjoy the rides and spectacular harbour views in a fun environment that caters to all budgets and ages. If it’s an escape to the beach that you’re after, Bondi Beach and Manly Beach are ideal locations for surfers, sunbathers and beachside cafes. Wanting to get back to nature? Explore Sydney Olympic Park, Hyde Park or the Chinese Garden of Friendship.
leading Hunter Valley winemakers and chefs. Cruise around Newcastle with Nova Cruises, which offers ocean, harbour and river cruises that include chances to whale watch or travel to the historic shipping ports of Morpeth and Raymond Terrace.
Get coastal Visit the home of the Big Banana, Coffs Harbour! The north coast town hosts beautiful beaches, seasonal whales, coral reefs and abundant wildlife.
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National Parks With magnificent views, iconic rock formations and heritage tracks and lookouts, it’s easy to see why the Blue Mountains National Park is so iconic. The stark and striking landscape of Mungo National Park is famous for the discovery of a rare archaeological find - the oldest human skeleton in Australia. Home of the striking Breadknife rock formation, Warrumbungle National Park is located near Coonabarabran. At night, the park offers perfect conditions for stargazing, by day, it’s a great spot for camping, hiking and birdwatching.
Discover art, culture and history
Explore the Hunter Region Home to Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter begins two hours’ drive north of Sydney and is easily reached by car, bus, train or air. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life by visiting the Barrington Top National Park, where you’ll find ancient forests and amazing wildlife. Enjoy the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival. From the May 1 to June 30, you’re bound to find time to wine and dine with
Merewether Beach in Newcastle also deserves a notable mention, with its heritage listed Surf House, iconic Ocean Baths and a surfing reserve that stretches from Dixon Park in the north to Burwood Beach in the south.
After exceptional surf culture? Look no further than Lennox Head, or drive a short trip north to Byron Bay. If you’re wanting to relax and unwind, the Central Coast is your ideal location. Enjoy swimming spots in Avoca Beach or The Entrance Beach.
Regional centres such as Wollongong on the South Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Port Macquarie on the North Coast, Goulburn, Bathurst and Orange in Country NSW, and Broken Hill in Outback NSW all have excellent art galleries without having to travel to larger cities. Old Dubbo Gaol is a state heritage listed must see. This remarkably complete and intact gaol operated for 119 years from 1847 to 1966 and is still nestled in the main street of Dubbo.
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. Specialist advice and support is available to parents/caregivers of children with disabilities to help them access 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
Visit an Aboriginal Place!
The Armidale and Region Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Keeping Place showcases a diverse range of Australian Indigenous arts and culture. If it’s the theatre you’re wanting to immerse yourself in, the Sydney Opera House hosts over 40 shows a week.
Meet the wildlife Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo is one of the state’s top zoo experiences. Home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals, you’re bound to enjoy the ‘zoofari.
interact positively with other children and to recognise and accept their own feelings and those of others. The program also supports 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. Subjects taken may influence future employment options. 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.
On the South Coast, check out the region’s largest animal sanctuary at Shoalhaven Zoo, with over 100 species of native and exotic mammals, birds, and reptiles inhabiting 16 acres of bushland on the Shoalhaven River. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium has two of only five dugongs on display in the world – Wuru and Pig. You’ll also see sharks, stingrays, turtles, seahorses and thousands of tropical fish. Behind-the-scenes tours include a snorkel tour. More information at: www.visitnsw.com
A caring learning environment A Co-educational K-12 School in the Anglican Tradition Latest Information Technology New Primary & Secondary facilities Over 80% of our Graduates continue to University Studies
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Education in New South Wales
Australian Capital Territory
Canberra
THE NATION’S CAPITAL
Canberra, the nation’s capital, is located in the Australian Capital Territory. The city is 280 kilometres inland from Sydney and has a population of about 400,000 people. Canberra 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 parklands 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 Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Murrumbidgee River Corridor, just a short drive away. Websites that provide detailed information about our national capital include: www. visitcanberra.com.au and www.canberratourism.com.au. 62
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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.
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 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!
Australian War Memorial
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
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. The memorial enables Ausralians to remember and to understand the enduring impact of war on Australian society. The Museum is open daily 10am to 5pm, with a Last Post Ceremony every day at 4.55pm.
Department of Defence Canberra’s Russell Offices is home to the Chief of the Defence Force and Chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force. The Department is responsible for formulating Defence policy to meet the broad objectives of the Federal Government.
Canberra: Australia’s Education Capital
In the ACT children are enrolled in school from age 6. Students are required to participate in full-time 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.
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.
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
The ACT International Education Strategy Canberra: Australia’s Education Capital is a strategy designed to support one of the Territory’s most important industry sectors and recognises that thriving and porous campuses create opportunities for collaboration, commercialisation, business creation and talent attraction and retention. One in nine Canberrans work or study at education institutions. Education and research institutions value add around $2.7 billion and support 16,000 jobs. Canberra educates around 44,000 higher education students and over 20,000 vocational education students each year, including more than 12,000 international students and a similar number from other Australian jurisdictions. In fact, international education is Canberra’s largest export, and growth in student numbers is largely responsible for the record annual growth in ACT services exports over the past five years. International students bring diverse perspectives, build cultural awareness and understanding, drive broader visitation, develop people to people links, build business, trade and investment links, and after graduation (as alumni) act as advocates, innovators, and exemplars. They also raise the profile of Canberra around the world. More at: www.business.act.gov.au/
LEARN LOCALLY THINK GLOBALLY BOYS & GIRLS TOGETHER FOR THE FUTURE CGS offers the NSW HSC & IBDP READY FOR THE WORLD
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AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
Education in the ACT
Australian Capital Territory
ACT Children’s Plan BUILDING BLOCKS APPROACH TO EDUCATION
EMMAUS Christian School
Have you found a school that partners with parents and is focused on building a strong community? Emmaus Christian School is a co-educational school with students from Pre-school to Year 10. Located in the northern suburb of Dickson, ACT, Emmaus provides a high quality education and is committed to providing a balanced program of spiritual, emotional, physical and academic nurturing to all its students. Being a gospel-shaped community, Christian education at Emmaus is manifested through the delivery of a Christ-centered curriculum and a teaching and learning program delivered by staff who submit all of life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. For more information, visit their website at www.emmaus.act.edu.au or call 02 6247 7151.
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The ACT Children’s Plan is a whole of ACT government and whole of community commitment to children aged 0-12 years, which aims to educate and instill a sense of community pride. 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: Children’s Health and Wellbeing
Building Block 6: Governance
St Mary Mackillop College
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.
A child friendly city must have a local 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.
Ask students what they like about St Mary MacKillop College and they’ll tell you about the College’s welcoming environment, diversity, skill of the teaching staff, and the wide range of opportunities at their disposal. MacKillop has all the advantages Canberra’s largest school can provide: lots of different people to be friendly with, a wide range of curriculum options, extensive facilities, and a huge range of sports and co-curricular choices. From day to day, however, the two-campus setup means students enjoy a relatively small learning environment. Defence families choose to send their children to MacKillop, and according to the College’s Sustainability Captain, Lauren Frost, the welcoming nature of the staff and students helps new students adapt to their new surroundings. “My favourite thing about MacKillop is the people,” Lauren said. “There’s a real sense of community and the people are welcoming and supportive of change and individuality. The teachers are your greatest supporters and want you to do the best you can.” Lauren, like so many students from Defence families, makes use of MacKillop’s Defence Transition Mentor, who helps new students integrate and provides support to students whose parents have been deployed. “The Defence students have a lot of support at our school and we also gather regularly to talk and support each other at lunches and events outside of school,” Lauren said. St Mary MacKillop College, located in Canberra’s Tuggeranong Valley, is a co-educational, Catholic school for Years 7-12. Find out more at www.mackillop.act.edu.au.
Building Block 5: Services for Children and 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.
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
Processes to assess the impact of law, policy and practice on children
Effective governance mechanisms across government and community
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Victoria
Melbourne A SENSE OF STYLE, ELEGANCE AND FESTIVE EVENTS
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 passion for dining out, and a flourishing interest in the arts. foreboding in shadow to brilliant sandy yellow under a full sun.
Things to do in Melbourne and across Victoria are as varied as they are distinctive, especially under the headings of Culture and Unique events.
Melbourne Shopping
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.
Royal Botanic Gardens
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.
Visit Melbourne’s inner-city oasis. More than 10,000 plant species from around the world are presented in a kaleidoscope of colour and texture. Sweeping lawns, tranquil lakes and majestic trees are home to amazing wildlife.
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. The MCG is renowned for the Boxing Day (Cricket) Test known internationally. The stadium houses the National Sports Museum, which includes priceless pieces of memorabilia in Australian sporting history. 66
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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
For more information about Melbourne and Victoria go to: www.visitmelbourne.com and other ‘What’s on’ websites.
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.
challenged and their literacy and numeracy skills continue to 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.
Starting Kindergarten
Primary School - Prep To Year 4
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
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 and have an interest in the pathways they intend to pursue.
Years 10 to 12
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. 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 real-life experiences. The Prep to Year 4 curriculum emphasises the importance of reading, writing, spelling, essential maths and problem solving skills.
Years 9 to 10
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.
In Years 10 to 12 students explore 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 workrelated experience. Within VCAL students can undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship.
Leaving End of Year 12 Although there’s 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; 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 each student explore the options and pathways open to them.
Regional Development VICTORIA Regional Development Victoria is the Victorian Government’s lead agency in developing rural and regional Victoria. RDV works with various Government agencies to facilitate economic, infrastructure and community development to improve the quality of life for regional Victorians. With a focus on building stronger economies and communities through employment, investment and infrastructure, RDV supports regional Victoria to: • create vibrant and dynamic regional communities through economic development • facilitate new investment by funding infrastructure for strategic projects • deliver integrated programs and strategies to grow a sustainable business economy and industries • support the implementation of integrated regional plans • deliver jobs and investment across Victoria through resilient, competitive and productive regional economies. Funding is largely delivered to: • provide better infrastructure,
facilities and services • strengthen the economic and social base of communities • create jobs and improve career opportunities • support local project development and planning. RDV offices are based in regional Victoria. Staff foster key networks and work closely with their local organisations, businesses and communities. RDV offices are a local contact point for businesses, local government, not for profit and community groups wanting to access the programs and services provided by RDV. RDV offices can also provide information about other government services, grants and contacts that may assist regional businesses and organisations. By agreement with the Commonwealth, RDV supports Regional Development Australia committees and their activities within Victoria. RDV has regional offices located in Bairnsdale, Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Horsham, Mildura, Seymour, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Traralgon, Wangaratta, Warrnambool and Wodonga.
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Education in Victoria
Tasmania SOUTHERN ISLAND OF AUSTRALIA
Separated from mainland Australia by more than a 200 kilometre 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.
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
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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 An hour’s drive from Hobart is Port Arthur, the site of one of the oldest convict settlements in Australia. Established as a timber station in 1830, it became important 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.
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 such as the Melbourne Cup, the Australian Open tennis and the cricket tests between Australia and England. Tasmania’s most popular summer event, The Taste of Tasmania, returns to Hobart’s waterfront 28 December 2016 – 3 January 2017, 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 coolclimate wines and boutique beers and ciders, combined with a fabulous entertainment program and family-focused activities.
Government schools in Tasmania provide three levels of education: Kindergarten -Year 6, High School Years 7-10 and Senior Secondary Years 11-12.
DefenceLife DefenceLife LIFESTYLE GUIDE FOR AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FAMILIES
2017 EDITION
LIFESTYLE FAMILY MATTERS MILITARY LIFE LOCATIONS
EDUCATION
SCHOOLING OPTIONS STATE BY STATE
FUTURE
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 turning 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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Museum of Old and New Art – Mona The Museum of Old and New Art – Mona is Australia's largest private museum and one of the most controversial private collections of modern art and antiquities in the world. Described by its owner as a "subversive adult Disneyland", the collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian mummies to some of the world's most infamous and thought-provoking contemporary art. With around 300 art works on display, the collection takes up three floors within a subterranean architectural masterpiece and is guaranteed to impress. The 3.5 ha site includes a function centre, Moorilla winery and vineyard, a cellar
door and wine bar. There's also the Source restaurant, a 63-seat cinema, the Mona Library & Gallery and eight accommodation pavilions. Visitors can catch a high speed ferry from Hobart's waterfront for a 30-minute ride up the Derwent River right to the steps of the museum. Mona is open six days a week, closed Tuesdays.
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TASMANIA
Education in Tasmania
South Australia
Adelaide CAPITAL OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is the fifth largest city in Australia. The city centre is renowned for its well planned streets with parks and gardens strategically placed throughout the city. The 1.1 million Adelaide residents would say it is definitely a liveable city. Among the Defence population, Adelaide is also known as one of the Defence capitals of Australia with a large proportion of Army, Air Force and Navy members calling it home along with an increasing Defence industry presence. 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 more than 1200 homes for Defence members and their families located mostly in the northern part of the city and have first rate access to schools, transport, shopping facilities and recreational activities. 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 are located in South Australia. Visitors can visit nine distinct wine regions within 90 minutes of the Adelaide city centre: Barossa and Eden Valley, Adelaide Plains, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, Southern Fleurieu, Currency Creek, Langhorne Creek and the Clare Valley. 70
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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 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 is just 40 minutes south of Adelaide, established 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 full-bodied reds.
South Australia
Save the Date
Parents may choose to send their children to a government, independent or Catholic school or preschool. It is compulsory for children to be enrolled in a school by their sixth birthday. The start date for school for all children is the first day of Term 1. Government schools are commonly referred to as public schools and kindergarten is the same as preschool. All young people under the age of 17 are required to attend full-time schooling, training or work for at least 25 hours per week. International students who wish to study and live in South Australia may attend public schools.
Options for each stage of learning Children 0 to 7 years of age are in the early stage of learning. This stage includes: childcare, preschool (kindergarten), reception (children usually begin primary school in reception at 5 or 6 years of age), then years 1 and 2 of primary school (usually children between 6 and 7 years of age). 8-10 year olds are usually in the primary years stage of learning. This stage includes year 3 to year 5 of primary school. 11-14 year olds are usually in the middle years stage of learning. This covers: years 6 and 7 of primary school, years 8 and 9 of high school.
15-17 year olds are usually in the secondary years stage of learning. This covers year 10 to year 12 of high school. In high school, students may choose to complete year 12 and obtain their South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), or go on to other education and training options or work. Young people aged 17 and older may choose to return to school to complete SACE, continue with formal study, participate in a community education program or start work.
Clipsal 500
2 - 5 March 2017 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 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.
Linear Park Trail 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 Festival
3 - 19 March 2017 A modern re-creation of Adelaide’s Floating Palais, songs from Rufus Wainwright’s musical love letter to Judy Garland and a blistering German re-imagining of Richard III are among highlights of the 2017 Adelaide
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, with many excellent examples of early Australian architecture such as 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.
Adelaide Zoo Get up close and personal with the animals at Adelaide Zoo. Adelaide Zoo offers a variety of behind the scenes tours.
Festival.
WOMADelaide
10 - 13 March 2017 One of Australia’s iconic festivals, WOMADelaide presents over four days in the middle weekend of the Adelaide Festival, the world’s best artists, thinkers, dancers and creators in a celebration of music, tolerance, goodwill, cultural curiosity and joy amongst the green oasis of Adelaide’s majestic Botanic Park. To find out more about what’s happening in South Australia in 2017 go to: http://www.southaustralia.com
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SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Education in
Western Australia
Perth AUSTRALIA’S MOST WESTERN CITY
The wide variety of landscapes and geography in Western Australia provides a varying climate but there’s always plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect year-round destination for visitors. 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 boutique breweries. Here you can eat fresh crayfish straight from the ocean or dine on the local organic beef and truffles. Visit the farmers markets and try the artisan cheeses. Indulge in local handmade chocolates and delicious fudge. When you finish your culinary journey, take time to explore the 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, The region produces some of Australia’s best cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, semillon, sauvignon blanc, merlot and shiraz varieties.
Outback The Western Australian outback is the largest expanse of outback in the country, with a mind-blowing 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.
Western Australia’s Department of Education is committed to learning achievements for every student to be accelerated, with priorities on high quality teaching, success for all students, effective leadership and strong governance and support. Who needs to enrol? Parents need to apply to enrol your children in public school for 2017 if they are: starting Kindergarten – 4 years old by 30 June 2017 starting Pre-primary, the first year of compulsory school – 5 years old by 30 June 2017 starting Year 7, the first year of secondary school changing schools. All children of compulsory school age must be enrolled in school and attend every day – this is the law. In Western Australia, children can start their education in Kindergarten, however compulsory schooling starts the following year in Pre-primary. All children must attend school up until they are 16 years old. Sixteen and 17 year olds must be enrolled in school or a training organisation, be employed or be in a combination of school/training/employment. Every child from Pre-primary to Year 12 is guaranteed a place at their local public school. To enrol your child in public school for 2017, visit your local school as soon as possible. Enrolling your children if they are changing l
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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.
schools or starting school in Western Australia for the first time are considered to be new enrolments, and parents will need to re-enrol your children if they change schools. All children of compulsory school age (Preprimary to Year 12) are guaranteed places in their local schools.
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. Kindergarten is part-time, offering 15 hours each week.
Pre-Primary
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
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.
WA Photo Card The photo card is a voluntary card to assist people who do not hold a driver’s licence or passport to conveniently prove their identity. It is available to people 16 years and older who normally reside in the State. Photo cards are valid for five years and cardholders have the option of including their address on the card and can choose to have two cards one showing their address and one without it. Photo cards have the same level of security as a driver’s licence and display the following information: name, date of birth, signature, photograph and address (optional). Keep your photo card close. Just like a driver’s licence, your photo card holds important personal information about you, so be careful to whom you give your card. It is an offence to lend a photo card, or allow a photo card to be used by another person. Only an authorised person under the Liquor Control Act 1988 can confiscate a card. The authorised person is only permitted to confiscate a card from a
juvenile (a person under the age of 18) if they suspect the card is forged, false or counterfeit. Photo cards should only be scanned or copied with your permission. The WA photo card replaced the proof of age card, and there are fees attached to applying for the card. Concessions up to 100 per cent on these fees may be applied in certain circumstances. The enhanced security features will ensure that forgery of the cards is much more difficult and will act as a deterrent against identity crime. The security features include: • specialised and latest technology background printing methods; • sophisticated graphic design elements, including guilloche patterns; • deep laser printing of personalised information; • holder’s date of birth laser engraved at base of photograph; • a unique serial number on each card; • a barcode and a holographic overlay. For more information go to: www.transport.wa.gov.au
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WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Education in Western Australia
LOOKING FORWARD CAREER, EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT, TRANSITION
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 useful 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 Managing Editor
Should I stay, or plan to go? 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, 74
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starting a totally new career, establishing an own business, or just kicking back in retirement. Planning and informed 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.
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. In Queensland, touching base with QTAC’s Tertiary Advice and Counselling Service 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 nittygritty 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 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 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, but one that is easier (less competitive) to get into than your preferred course. This 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 preferred 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
PLAN YOUR MANOEUVRE into tertiary study
Transition Timeline ENSURE YOU ARE 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 uniform, 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. People who commit some of their time and resources to prepare even a loose plan for the future benefit from time: time to watch investments grow; time to acquire valuable education, training and skills; time for 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 other centres. Details are available from your Unit Resettlement Officer. DFRDB/MSBS/ADF Super. Write to ComSuper for advice on specific entitlements. You will be entitled to superannuation benefits from your respective military superannuation fund.
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 76
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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 benefits under the Career Transition Assistance Scheme. The CTAS is a tiered benefit based on completed years of service. The scheme assists with employment opportunities after you leave the ADF. 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 Write to ComSuper or ADF Super requesting confirmation of entitlements. 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, 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. It is 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 future separation from the Defence Forces.
Careers & work/life Goals The nature of work/life aspirations have changed, with frequent job and career changes becoming the norm as individuals seek different paths, and jobs, along the way to achieving new career and life goals. 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 case within the Australian Defence Force. Factors contributing to changing work/ life attitudes cannot only be categorised into Baby Boomer, Generation X and Y stereotypes but rather a combination of different attitudes that aim to achieve a balance between lifestyle and career. Technological advances have changed the nature of work, 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.
In addition to mandatory Service courses he begins external study with a view to tertiary qualifications, completing these studies. 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.
Career Choices The Australian Defence Force is certainly not insulated from these career motivations, and has identified recruitment and retention of skilled people as a critical factor in meeting 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; and 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-yearold recruit, entering the Army as an infantry soldier. After a few years in the Army he realises that career advancement would enable choices in his Army career.
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 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 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 through 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. 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,
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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Defence Force
Department of Defence
The Australian Defence Force is constituted under the Defence Act 1903. Its mission is to defend Australia and its national interests. In fulfilling this mission, Defence serves the Government of the day and is accountable to the Commonwealth Parliament which represents the Australian people to efficiently and effectively carry out the Government’s defence policy. Defence portfolio structure
Role
The Defence portfolio consists of a number of component organisations that together are responsible for supporting the defence of Australia and its national interests. The two most significant bodies are: the Department of Defence is a department of state, headed by the Secretary of the Department of Defence; and the Australian Defence Force (ADF), commanded by the Chief of the Defence Force (CDF), consists of the three Services - the Royal Australian Navy, the Army and the Royal Australian Air Force (including Reserves). These Services are commanded by Service Chiefs. Each Service Chief also administers their respective Cadet service, although the Cadet service is not a component of the parent Service.
The primary role of Defence is to defend Australia against armed attack. Australia’s defence policy is founded on the principle of self-reliance in the direct defence of Australia, but with a capacity to do more where there are shared interests with partners and allies.
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Strategic Direction The Defence White Paper was released on 25 February 2016 together with an Integrated Investment Program and Defence Industry Policy Statement. Defence White Papers are the Government’s most important guidance about Australia’s long-term defence capability. They provide an opportunity for the Government and community to understand the opportunities and challenges for Australia’s future defence and security needs.
The White Paper provides a strategy aligned with capability and resources to deliver a future force that is more capable, agile and potent and ready to respond to future challenges.
Defence functions and powers Where applicable, Ministers or authorised Defence employees may exercise decisionmaking powers under the legislation that is administered by the Minister aided by the department. Matters dealt with by the Department of Defence, include: international defence relations and defence co-operation, defence scientific research and development, defence procurement and purchasing, and defence industry development and co-operation. Headquarters Department of Defence is located in Canberra in the ACT.
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’.
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- Surface Force, covering the RAN’s surface combatants (generally the RAN fleet includes destroyers, 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 consists of nearly 50 commissioned vessels and over 16,000 personnel, one of the largest and most sophisticated naval forces in the Pacific region, with a significant presence in the Indian Ocean and worldwide operations in support of military campaigns and peacekeeping missions.
The main strength lies in twelve frigates of the surface combatant force: eight Anzac class and three Adelaide class, with three Air Warfare Destroyers currently under construction, with the first ship (HMAS Hobart undergoing sea trials from August 2016). Six Collins-class boats make up the submarine service. Amphibious warfare assets include the Canberra-class landing helicopter dock ships, and the landing ship HMAS Choules. Thirteen Armidale-class patrol boats perform coastal and economic exclusion zone patrols, and four Huon-class vessels are used for minehunting and clearance. 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.
The Australian Army is a world class, cuttingedge military force, 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 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. 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
Royal Australian Air Force Air Force Vision “One team - swift, decisive, resilient and respected” Today’s Air Force is built on the proud history and traditions of the Australian Flying Corps and the Royal Australian Air Force since its formation in 1921. Air Force provides immediate and responsive military options across the spectrum of operations as part of a Whole of Government joint or coalition response, either from Australia or deployed overseas. Air Force achieves this position through the key air power roles - control of the air; precision strike; intelligence, surveillance and response; and air mobility - enabled by combat and operational support. We exploit the air power characteristics of persistent and precision effect, flexibility, perspective, reach, penetration, versatility and responsiveness. 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”. 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. With a force of around 13,500 the RAAF has been highly successful in continuing 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. (Defence Photos)
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Defence support - useful links 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 ask for the Duty Chaplain at the military facility closest to your 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. www.armyrtf.com.au/loans/relief-loans 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 80
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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 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 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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