THE HON. WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Thursday, 27 November 2008
186/2008
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE FAMILIES GO SCOUTING
The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon MP, today
welcomed the new partnership arrangement between Defence Families of Australia and
Scouts Australia that will help support Australian Defence Force (ADF) families.
“Scouts Australia is generously offering ADF families easier access to the range of
scouting activities and programs, fee waivers on transfer, and comfort in the continuity of
a leading and supportive youth development program that is available in almost all
communities in Australia,” Mr Snowdon said.
“In exchange, Defence Families of Australia will encourage ADF families to take part in
the scouting movement, recognising that Defence children can bring diversity to local
scout groups and that their ADF parents may contribute a range of skills and experience
to support youth development activities.”
A memorandum of cooperation to formalise the arrangement was signed by the Chief
Commissioner of Scouts Australia, Mr John Ravenhall AM, and Mrs Nicole Quinn, the
National Convener of Defence Families of Australia, in the presence of Scouts and
Defence representatives.
“ADF families face many challenges because of military service, not least the family
disruption of relocation on postings every two to three years,” Mr Snowdon said.
“The new partnership forged between Scouts Australia and Defence Families of Australia
will help ADF families by extending programs, including workshops and training for young
people and adults, to assist them feel more at home in their new community.”
The Minister also launched the new Defence Scouting Badge. The Badge will bear the
tri-service logo with the words Scouting for ADF families.
“This badge can be earned by a scout who has delivered a presentation on Defence life,
visited a military base, and completed a project on Defence personnel and peace,” Mr
Snowdon said.
“It is a visible sign of the relationship between the two organisations, and encourages an
understanding in Scouts of the role and work of the Australian Defence Force.
“I am sure all scouts who earn it, will wear it with pride.
“The families of Australia’s Defence Force are incredibly important, and the support and
love they offer, are what makes the hard work and sacrifice of our service personnel
possible.
“I congratulate Defence Families Australia and Scouting Australia on working together to
help support our Defence Force families.”
Defence Families of Australia is an independent, volunteer-based organisation formed in
1986 to officially represent the views of Defence families to Government and Defence’s
senior leadership group.
Media Note: Imagery will be available later today at www.defence.gov.au/media/download
Media contacts:
Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):
02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
