Address by
Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, AC, AFC
Chief of the Defence Force (CDF)
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) offers its members challenging and rewarding careers - life and work in the military is often full of adventure and excitement. However, in addition to offering many opportunities, the military lifestyle can also be demanding, not only for the ADF member, but also for their families. Extended time away from home, frequent moves, and uncertainty are just some of the issues that Defence families must frequently face. This is especially difficult during times of high operational tempo, when we place extra demands on our people, which in turn impacts on their families.
Defence Families of Australia (DFA) plays a very important role in ensuring the ADF provides a family-friendly environment for all our serving men and women. DFA are a wonderful voice for Defence families all over Australia. Nicole Quinn, National Convenor, and other DFA members work tirelessly with elements of the wider Defence organisation in increasing awareness of some of the challenges faced by Defence families. DFA also contributes to the development of important support measures and has a very important role in raising awareness of our Defence Community Organisation programs.
This is why this DFA website is a very important tool for Defence families. This website provides families with improved access to information on policies, entitlements, support, relocations and housing, and posting locations which relate to their stage of life and circumstances.
As Chief of the Defence Force nothing is more important to me than the wellbeing of ADF men and women and their families. I thank all Defence families for their ongoing and devoted support. Without the love and encouragement of their families, the men and women of the ADF would not be able to perform as well as they do, and for that I am very grateful. I encourage all Defence families to utilise the information on this website so they can better manage the impact of a military career and enhance their families’ quality of life.