THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
124/2009
FIRST EVER ADF FAMILIES SURVEY COMPLETED
Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science today
welcomed findings from the first ever Australian Defence Force (ADF) families
survey.
“The key objectives of the survey were to assist Defence in better
understanding the needs and experiences of ADF families, whether their
support and education programs were well received and whether there was
effective communication with families,” Mr Combet said.
“The feedback from families is being used to help shape the 20-year ADF
Housing and Accommodation Strategy so that more flexible housing options
are available to ADF families. It is also being used to inform the development
of an improved Absence from Home Support program for ADF members and
their families.
“Overall the responses indicate that the majority of families find that Defence
is very supportive of ADF families. The survey findings also show that families
are highly resilient and resourceful in dealing with the challenges of the unique
employment requirements of the ADF.
“The survey also has a clear message that families would like to see improved
communication and interaction with Defence.
“The survey found that although Defence has a comprehensive range of
service and personnel policies aimed at supporting families, it is clear that
more can be done to improve the way that these programs and policies are
communicated and understood.
“Given these results, ADF commanders are being sent information about the
importance of improved communication with families. This includes helping
families feel part of the ADF community, understand the roles of the ADF, and
to aid family education and preparation.
“For example, the importance of encouraging families to attend unit and ship
social events and pre-deployment briefings is currently being reinforced to
ADF commanders.
“The survey results also highlight the value of on-going family preparedness
and education. Families have shared their own adjustment experiences which
are being used to tailor support, employment, housing and education
programs.
“This information is particularly valuable in helping us to better support ADF
families with different needs, preferences, family characteristics and
employment circumstances.
“Defence will now begin a process of close engagement with ADF members
and their families, to continue to improve and enhance the relationship with
families and assist in minimising the impact of ADF service on families,” Mr
Combet said.
5749 respondents, including partners of ADF members, dual ADF couples
and single ADF parents participated in the survey.
Copies of the full results report and also a brief summary of results can be
Media contacts:
Rod Hilton (Greg Combet):
02 6277 7620 or 0458 276 619
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
