Deployment can generate many emotions for ADF members and their families - fear, anger, loneliness, denial, anxiety joy, relief and anticipation.
Contact the Defence Member and Family Helpline to support and advice.
Single parenting
Although the situation is temporary, there are emotional, financial and practical day-to-day adjustments families need to make when a member is deployed.
Simplify life as much as possible - try a family calendar, pre-planning meals and getting a cleaner.
Getting to know other military families who are going through the same experience can build a network of support for families.
Member and Family Care Plan
Defence can help ADF members develop a member and family care plan before they deploy, ensuring all important family information is in one reference document. The plan includes:
- financial arrangements
- home maintenance
- medical needs
- emergency plans
- legal considerations.
Member and Family Care Plan (PDF, 489.48 KB)
The ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre has a budget calculator and a deployment checklist to help you with your financial planning.
Members are also encouraged to write a will and send a copy to Defence Member and Family Helpline. Members can get legal advice and referral options from a Defence Legal Officer.
Family benefits
ADF members who receive a family tax benefit, parental leave payments or childcare package must contact Services Australia when:
- they deploy overseas for more than 6 weeks
- they return to Australia during the deployment period.