Silver Jubilee

Defence Families of Australia celebrated 25 years of representing Defence Families in Government and Defence forums during 2011 by holding a series of events and publishing a book, Voices.

Voices Book

DFA has always supported the positive portrayal of Defence Life. As part of the Jubilee celebrations, we wish to highlight the unique experiences of Defence families alongside the significant sacrifices of ADF members. This has been achieved by the publication of a book.

The goal of this book is two-fold. It will provide a means in which Navy, Army and Air Force family members can see themselves reflected in the stories of others. Secondly, to raise awareness of family experiences among the general public.

DFA is giving away free copies of the book to Parents, Partners and Children of currently serving ADF members thanks to our sponsors Defence Health, Defence Housing Australia, ADCU and RANCCF.

Email webmaster@dfa.org.au with Voices giveaway Website in the subject line, your name, address and a tip for Defence Families in your posting location (useful website or discount or place to visit).

History

Following a comprehensive report written by Sue Hamilton from the Office of the Status of Women which identified significant challenges facing Defence Families, the National Consultative Group of Service Spouses (NCGSS) was formed in 1986. The Group gained regular Defence funding and office space in 1993 to carry on its work after Defence leaders recognised that no other organisation or system carried out the same necessary functions. In 2002, the group was renamed Defence Families of Australia.

Today DFA represents all family members who support our Australian Defence Force, including more than 60,000 dependants recognised by Defence and currently has over 7600 active Members. DFA recognises that family members providing essential support to serving ADF members may include partners, children and parents.

DFA has strengthened its representative position within Defence. Once a year, National Delegates from each region travel to Canberra for a major conference with the Minister responsible for Defence Personnel, Defence leaders, DCO and service providers, like Defence Housing Australia and Toll.

The representative role has been further extended with the DFA National Convenor sitting on a number of Defence committees and advisory boards, and delegates providing feedback to regional managers and forums.

DFA now provides immediate and accurate information to families through our eNewsletters, Infoline, website and Facebook Page, thus filling a significant information gap previously experienced by Defence Families.

With the development of online surveys, we have enhanced the ability of DFA to collect the views of families around Australia in a consistent manner and reach a wider range of families thus ensuring DFA has a more relevant and powerful voice.