Separation and Divorce

There are services available to help you build strong relationships here.

In the event of relationship breakdown leading to separation or divorce, there are limited services available to former partners of ADF members.

Policy and Advocacy

Defence Partners are entitled to relocation and support services following relationship breakdown.

Download the DFA Factsheet on Relationship Breakdown.

Counselling

Partners should contact DCO for immediate assistance and counselling.

Recently separated partners of ADF members who have served in eligible overseas operations can also contact VVCS without a referral for assistance with a range of relationship issues. Counselling and group programs are fully funded by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Call DCO's Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 for immediate assistance. Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service Visit the VVCS website which includes locations of VVCS centre and factsheets. Call 1800 011 046, available 24 hours a day, or visit a VVCS centre. Partners of Veterans Association of Australia PVA can provide ongoing support to former partners of ADF Members. Visit www.pva.org.au or call 02 4945 1111 or 02 4943 5675.

Family Relationships Australia

Family Relationships Australia is a Federal Government initiative that aims to provide families with information to improve relationships or cope with separation.

There is a network of Family Relationship Centres in each state, a phone counselling line and online resources on relationship topics.

Families can also learn about family law issues and be referred to the centres for dispute resolution services.

Find excellent resources for couples, families, children, parents and grandparents. Call 1800 050 321, 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday. Visit www.familyrelationships.gov.au