Family Stability

The ADF Family Stability Initiative gives ADF members who are required to relocate on posting the opportunity to choose geographical stability for their families. This means that families may elect to remain in their current location, while the ADF members proceed on their new postings unaccompanied.

The ADF member is then classified Member With Dependants (Unaccompanied) or MWDU.

Families have many reasons for choosing not to move to a new location with the member such as schooling for the children, a partner continuing current employment or staying close to family support.

Choosing to go MWDU is a significant family decision and DFA recommends you consider disruptions due to travel and get as much information about your new posting location as possible before making any final decisions.

Changes to employment conditions in February 2011 allowed more members of the Australian Defence Force to receive benefits when they live in separate locations to their families.

Before making a decision talk to a Social Worker at DCO. Call the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 to make an appointment with a DCO Social Worker.