The wellbeing of military families is front of mind for ADF personnel, as Defence celebrates International Day of Families.
Each year, May 15 is a time to thank ADF families for the vital contributions they make to Defence's capability, and for the ADF to reinforce its promise continually to improve the support services available.
Defence reaffirmed its commitment to ADF families on May 7, when Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston signed the updated ADF Family Covenant in Canberra.
The ADF Family Covenant is an agreement that recognises the important and unique contributions ADF families provide, and pledges Defence's commitment to supporting and enhancing the wellbeing of families.
"This International Day of Families, we celebrate and thank families for performing a pivotal role in the wellbeing and support of their loved ones in the Australian Defence Force," Admiral Johnston said.
Attending the signing were: Chief of Personnel Lieutenant General Natasha Fox; Defence Family Advocate of Australia Charlotte Webb; Acting Head of Joint Support Services Division Air Commodore Patrick Keane; and Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) patron Belinda Johnston.
"The unwavering strength and commitment of families contributes directly to the Australian Defence Force's mission, capability and culture," Admiral Johnston said.
"The ADF Family Covenant is an agreement that recognises this vital and unique contribution and pledges Defence's commitment to supporting and enhancing the wellbeing of families."
'We celebrate and thank families for performing a pivotal role in the wellbeing and support of their loved ones in the Australian Defence Force.'
As Defence's dedicated family support branch, DMFS provides support services to assist ADF families with the unique challenges they face.
This includes supporting families in navigating member absence and posting cycles, along with targeted services to assist with employability, child care, children's education, crisis situations, family wellbeing and special needs.
DMFS Director General Libby Cremen said support would always be available to Defence personnel and their families who needed it.
"Our ADF families face a unique set of challenges, which can feel quite isolating. I want to remind every Defence member and their family that they are not alone," Ms Cremen said.
"Our helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Support is always available to those who need it."
DMFS is hosting a number of community events throughout May to celebrate and thank ADF families around the country.
