2014
DEFENCEFAMILIES across Australia
QUEENSLAND NORTHERN TERRITORYVICTORIA SOUTH AUSTRALIA TASMANIA NEW SOUTH WALES WESTERN AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY defenceLife
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defenceLIFE MANAGING EDITOR John Armstrong PRODUCTION Leann O’Donoghue ADVERTISING
Chris Nelson | Suzette Armstrong ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES (O7) 3282 9019 Published by Strike Publications Pty Ltd P: PO Box 124, Ipswich Q 4305 E: info@strikepublications.com.au W: www.strikepublications.com.au ABN 41 010 922 335
CONTENTS DEFENCE FAMILIES As Defence families settle into a new area there are many adjustments to be made, both for partners and children. There are a number of organisations and initiatives to assist your move. 2 Defence Housing Australia 4 Defence Community Organisaion 6 Defence Families Australia 6 Defence Special Needs Group 8 Partner Education & Employment Program 10 Military Lifestyle 13 Defence Child Care Program 18 Health Matters
DEFENCE LIFESTYLE Living and working in each State and Territory of Australia offers differing lifestyle challenges for families, a variety of new places to see and exciting new things to do.
QUEENSLAND
NORTHERN TERRITORY
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY
NEW SOUTH WALES
VICTORIA
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
TASMANIA
FROM THE EDITOR DefenceLife magazine aims to inform Defence personnel and families on a range of issues that impact on their lives both within the Australian Defence Force and as part of the local community. This national edition covers lifestyle and career aspects of military service along with advice on the planning and actions required to meet personal and career goals when transitioning to civilian life. DefenceLife outlines the issues in a general sense, assuming that individuals will seek appropriate specialist advice from Service and other authorities on specific issues that affect their lives and future. As always, we welcome your feedback on the magazine. John Armstrong - Managing Editor
DEFENCE CAREER - LOOKING FORWARD Looking forward to a change of career and eventual retirement involves examination of a range of factors. 77 80 84 86 88 90 91
PUBLISHER’S DISCLAIMER DefenceLife is produced by Strike Publications Pty Ltd as a commercial venture. The views expressed in the magazine are not those of the Department of Defence. The magazine contains a variety of articles aimed at informing Defence personnel and families on a range of issues relevant to Service life and is not to be considered as authoritative source material. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and currency in the articles presented, reliance should not be placed on the information contained therein without reference to the relevant Department of Defence authorities. All advertisements in this magazine are protected by copyright and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher.
Transition Employment Education Investment Military Super Facts Property Transition Timeline
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS In compiling articles for this magazine, research material and media release images were obtained from several public access websites. These websites are duly acknowledged: Department of Defence - www. defence.gov.au • General information on Defence matters plus images of Defence people and operations Defence Community Organisation - www.defence.gov.au/dco • Information on family support programs Defence Personnel Executive - www.defence.gov.au/dpe • Career transition and resettlement information Tourism Queensland - www.tq.com.au Tourism Northern Territory - www.tourismnt.com.au Tourism South Australia – www.southaustralia.com.au Tourism Victoria - www.tourismvictoria.com.au Tourism New South Wales – www.tourism.nsw.gov.au Australian Capital Territory - www.tamsact.gov.au Tourism Western Australia - www.westernaustralia.com Tourism Tasmania – www.tourismtasmania.com.au • Images of places, people and events Education Queensland - www.education.qld.gov.au Education Northern Territory - www.det.nt.gov.au Education South Australia - www.decs.sa.gov.au Education Victoria - www.education.vic.gov.au Education New South Wales - www.schools.nsw.edu.au Education Australian Capital Territory - www.det.act.gov.au Education Western Australia - www.det.wa.edu.au Education Tasmania - www.education.tas.gov.au • Information on enrolment, curriculum, term dates. Please note that information in the articles was current at time of printing but latest developments should be checked with the relevant Defence and other authorities for currency and any changes to conditions.
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Defence Housing Australia
- your housing solution
Defence Housing Australia (DHA), like hundreds of Defence members and their families, are gearing up for another busy peak posting period. Although many of you have been through the process more times than you care to remember, it’s always good to familiarise yourself with the process and how to make posting as simple as possible. If you have received your posting order, remember to complete an Application For Relocation (AFR) with Toll Transitions. Once you have completed an AFR, DHA will make contact to arrange your HomeFind access.
Keep an eye out for any damage done during the removals process and record this on the contractor’s inventory. Lastly, travel safely to your new Service Residence!
Vacating your Service Residence
It’s always nice to have someone to welcome you home. A Property Manager will meet with you to welcome you to your new Service Residence on the day that you arrive to collect the keys. This is called a Welcome Visit. During this visit you will not only get the keys to your new home, but you will also sign your DHA Residence Agreement and go through a condition report about your new home which establishes the condition of your property on the day you occupied. You will have the opportunity to review your condition report before agreeing to it and don’t forget to return the condition report to your local HMC within 14 days of your welcome visit. Your welcome visit is also your opportunity to ask questions, after all that’s what your Property Manager is there for. After that, it’s all about unpacking, and settling in to your new home. Everything that you need to know about vacating, occupying and living in a DHA Service Residence is contained in your Tenant Handbook or you can access Online Services 24-hours a day to make requests or check on items regarding your tenancy. Your local HMC is also available Monday to Friday to support you, because if anyone else knows what posting is like it’s DHA.
Moving out of your old home and into the new is all about getting your house in order … literally! There are bags to pack, precious items to stow away and friends to say goodbye to. Defence families also need to keep in close contact with DHA during the process. The first item on the agenda is the Pre-Vacation Inspection (PVI). Your HMC will be in contact with you to arrange your PVI or you can contact DHA to book this inspection. During the PVI your Property Manager will go through cleaning requirements and check if there is any damage to the property that needs to be fixed, they will also ask you to sign a Tenant Acknowledgement Form (TAF) to acknowledge anything identified as your responsibility. But a PVI isn’t just about your Property Manager telling you what you need to do. It’s also your opportunity to address any concerns you may have about vacating and to learn how to use the lock box on the day of your uplift. On the day of your uplift (which is organised by Toll Transitions) you need to cross a few more items off your list. Make sure that you have disconnected any utility services, redirect your mail and arrange for any rubbish to be removed.
Occupying your Service Residence
Special Needs Families With Special Needs (FWSN) require different forms of support at different times. These requirements are taken into careful consideration when finding you a housing solution. If the property you are offered needs modifications, DHA will negotiate with the Head of Defence Corporate Support (HDCS) to approve the modifications. DHA will need your written acceptance of the property and the modifications before work starts. To assist you to locate your housing solution, DHA provides a DHA Housing Consultant who will assist you with the following:
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• approving a house hunting trip • house accessibility i.e. ramps, lighting, size of or automatic door entry • room sizes or amenities to accommodate large families • houses in close proximity to education facilities (for special/advanced education needs) • houses in close proximity to health care or respite facilities • consideration of environmental factors (heating, cooling or lighting). Further information www.dha.gov.au
DHA offers leasing opportunities Property is one of the most solid and secure investments available. DHA offers you the opportunity to avoid many of the risks and worries associated with conventional residential property investment. As property professionals DHA can offer a leasing package that suits the needs of most investors. You will benefit from DHA’s medium to long term leases, reliable rent, restoration provisions at lease end and DHA Property Care services. When evaluating your property, DHA ensures that it complies with the minimum housing standards and rental guidelines set by the Department of Defence. Properties must also match DHA’s desired property profile and requirements for leasing in a particular location. Initial lease terms are generally three or six years, although longer terms may be negotiated. During the term of your lease DHA undertakes all property management, including inspections and reporting on your behalf. The lease includes restoration provisions to ensure your property is returned in good order at the end of the lease. Where the total lease term is six years or more, DHA will paint the property internally. Where the lease exceeds nine years DHA will also replace carpet and paint the property externally. www.dha.gov.au
Have you been posted?
Find your next home on DHA Online Services. If you are a Member with Dependants (MWD) and relocating soon, visit DHA Online Services to view available Service Residences. Also remember to complete an Application for Relocation (AFR) with Toll Transitions. You can also: › › › ›
update your personal information including a change to your rank or family circumstances view property details, floor plans and photos relating to available properties reserve a property for up to 10 days, and lock down your property once you have full access.
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www.dha.gov.au/online
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defenceFAMILIES Toll Transitions’ Relocations Service
Defence Community Organisation Defence Community Organisation offers a broad range of programs and services to help Defence families make the most of the challenges and opportunities provided by the military way of life. The DCO employs a range of staff to deliver services and programs, including professional Social Workers, uniformed Military Support Officers, Regional Education Liaison Officers, and Family Liaison Officers. In addition, the DCO supports members and families, on behalf of command, by providing assistance in the event of accident, illness or hospitalisation. DCO also assists in managing casualties and estates and provides family support at times of bereavement.
Social Workers Defence social workers are qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about the Australian Defence Force and the lifestyle of its members. Social workers are able to provide confidential services to assist you to understand and address personal, family and work-related problems. Social workers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact your local DCO Office during business hours, or through the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608.
Military Support Officer Military Support Officers (MSO) are uniformed members from the three Services who provide support, advice, and assistance to individual clients and undertake a liaison function with units and command. MSOs provide practical support to members and their families in
relation to military matters. They also have a particular role with command and families in the event of illness or death of a serving member.
Regional Education Liaison Officer Regional Education Liaison Officers (REDLO) are professionally trained teachers who understand both the different state education systems and the Defence environment. They are available to provide advice to Defence families and children on education issues, particularly matters relating to mobility and relocation. REDLOs can assist with the transition between the various state and territory primary, secondary and tertiary education systems.
Family Liaison Officer Family Liaison Officers (FLO) provide community-based information, support and assistance to individual members, partners and families, and to Defence sponsored groups. These services are available at any time, however, FLOs are particularly proactive in regard to welcome activities in relation to new postings and settling in to a new area or during the deployment of ADF members. If you wish to contact a FLO, contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608. The Helpline operates 24-7 and is staffed by qualified human services professionals. www.defence.gov.au/dco
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You are encouraged to submit your Application for Relocation (AFR) documentation online. The Department of Defence sets the policy for ADF member relocation. Please refer to the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) to familiarise yourself with your relocation entitlements. If you are relocating on a posting, your Posting Order is the authority for your removal entitlement. Toll Transitions receives Posting Orders automatically from Defence however from time to time it may not have been received and you may be required to provide a copy for your move. If your relocation is as a result of a Change in Personal Circumstances, you will be required to provide Toll Transitions with supporting documentation to enable your entitlement to removal to be assessed and approved. Upon receipt of your Posting Order from Defence, Toll Transitions will send to you a PreApplication for Relocation (Pre-AFR) letter. The Pre-AFR enables you to notify us of your plans to move including providing tentative move dates. If you do not receive a Pre-AFR letter within 21 days of receiving your Posting Order, please contact Toll Transitions Customer Service Centre on 1800 819 167. Pre-AFR information also gives Defence Housing Australia (DHA) advance notification of your intent to vacate & occupy a residence. During your posting, Toll Transitions’ online relocation system allows you to input, update and maintain your removal inventory details providing you with a current record of your goods. It also allows you to re-use your inventory, should you relocate again. Once your relocation documentation is complete, a Toll Transitions Case Manager will make contact with you and manage your relocation. Your Case Manager will be located in the Toll Transitions Relocation Service Centre closest to your current posting location.
Whole of Relocation Cost model (WORC)
Events Defence Community Organisation hosts a variety of events in support of Defence families. Every year, to coincide with the posting cycle, DCO Area Offices host social events around the country to welcome Defence families into the local community. In partnership with Command, DCO Area Offices also host National Families Week events in most years, providing Defence families with a great opportunity to enjoy some entertainment and social activities.
Toll Transitions has been appointed by the Department of Defence to provide ADF members and their families with a total relocation service. Toll Transitions offers a range of services to help you relocate as a result of a posting or a change in personal circumstances.
DCO also sponsors or hosts communitybased social gatherings for families of deployed members. These aim to promote networking, connect families with their local communities, and to reinforce the valuable role of Defence families in support of the Australian Defence force. Events are designed to meet the needs of local Defence families and may include family day trips, fitness activities, workshops and classes, and social evenings for families.
Defence implemented a Whole of Relocation Cost model (WORC) for all domestic relocations within Australia from 5 August 2013. Members will submit their Application for Relocation (AFR) in the usual manner nominating a preferred uplift date. Toll will determine the most cost effective date within the week of your preferred date and confirm this date with you within approximately two weeks. If there are valid reasons that dictate you must uplift on your preferred date, you must complete this form, gain unit approval and submit it with your AFR.
You’re always there for each other. And Defence Health is always there for you. If your partner is in the Defence Force, then you and your family are eligible for healthy savings with Defence Health. Being there for Defence Force families is important to us. That’s why we offer exclusive low premiums, great benefits such as excess-free hospital for kids, and service and support from a team that understands. And you can join or switch to Defence Health in as little as 10 minutes. Defence Health, we’re always there for you.
Find out more
1800 335 425
www.defencehealth.com.au
defenceFAMILIES Defence Assistance for Special Needs
Defence Families of Australia Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is a volunteer group of Service partners formed to represent the views of Defence families. Its aim is to improve the quality of life for Defence families by providing a recognised forum for their views and by reporting, making recommendations and influencing policy that directly affects families. ADF families can contact DFA to represent them regarding an individual situation or to advocate an issue concerning many families. DFA is made up of Defence spouses, and the organisation relies on the generosity of Defence spouses to offer their time to support the Defence community through DFA. Volunteering for DFA is a valuable and rewarding experience and makes a huge difference to improving the conditions of our unique lifestyle and our Defence community in turn. Mobility means that DFA has a regular turnover of volunteers as families post in and out of locations. Living the lifestyle, spouses are well placed to represent other families from all over Australia.
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DFA representatives have worked energetically to improve conditions for all Defence families particularly in the areas of relocations, housing policy, spouse employment and children’s education. DFA is recognised by Defence and its stakeholders to provide feedback on views and interests of ADF families. The Convenor and volunteer Delegates work directly with Regional Managers and local Commanding Officers to clarify or resolve issues affecting families. The Convenor meets regularly with the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Chief of the Defence Force, and the Heads of Defence Departments to report and make recommendations on behalf of ADF families.
Your relocation allowances
DHA Housing Solution
As an ADF Member, you and your family are entitled to a number of allowances and entitlements as a result of a new posting or relocation. These allowances and entitlements vary according to a variety of factors, for example; your ADF Rank, family size and posting location. Toll Transitions will calculate all the allowances applicable for your relocation including (but not limited to): Disturbance, Temporary Accommodation and Vehicle allowances. We will also co-ordinate your travel and temporary accommodation and facilitate reimbursement of any relocation entitlements.
Defence Housing Australia (DHA) is responsible for assisting you with arranging your housing solution in your new gaining locality. For Members with dependants, DHA’s online home search facility is available to assist with selecting a new home. If you submit a Pre-AFR to Toll, you will receive access to Homefind from DHA via a Preview Pin. Upon receipt by Toll Transitions of your completed AFR you will be provided with full access to Homefind by DHA. If you have any questions pertaining to your Defence Housing Solution, contact DHA directly on free call 139 DHA.
The Defence Special Needs Support Group Inc was formed in 1993 as a small group of Defence families were brought together by a common bond – they all had a family member with “special needs” and they found it frustrating finding appropriate services due to being mobile. The families decided it was easier helping each other out with information and support, rather than going it alone. The Defence Special Needs Support Group Inc. provides support, information, assistance and advocacy for all ADF families who have a dependant (child, spouse or other dependant) with special needs. In addition, the Defence Special Needs Support Group also offers the following services. • Posting Plans designed to assist families to locate appropriate services ie therapy, early intervention, support groups, respite and more in their new location. • National Parent-to-Parent Network links special needs families who are posted, to others with similar needs in the new location. • Link Up links adults (usually spouses) with physical or medical special needs. • Leaps N Bounds is a contact support group for those who have depression or other mental health problem. • Access to Grants can assist families to obtain equipment or other particular requirements relating to the person with special needs. • One of the Group is a program designed to assist children aged 7 – 10 who have social skill difficulties. • Computers 4 Kids assists families to access new or second hand computers. • Stepping Stones Playgroup is a structured playgroup for children with special needs and their siblings. • Home2Hospital assists families where the person with special needs has to spend some time in a hospital far from their home. • sibMates assists “at risk” children who have a brother or sister with special needs. It provides them with support via spending time with a volunteer Host Defence Family. • Get Real Teen Group Program – activity based program for special needs teens and their siblings. • Family and Emergency Care Plans – a specialised care plan which can assist in the event of emergencies • Deployment, MWDU Support – support to families whilst the member is deployed or MWDU www.dsnsg.org.au
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What is PEEP ? The Partner Education & Employment Program (PEEP) is a Defence funded program developed to provide a comprehensive range of education and employment initiatives to assist partners of ADF members become job ready and access the workforce when posted.
Under Tier 1 of PEEP, Defence-recognised ADF partners will be eligible for a one off Education and Employment Allowance to the value of $12,000 for a period of ten years to cover all the following initiatives: Superannuation set up. Professional Employment Assistance. Education and Training (tertiary or vocational). Personalised Resume Preparation. Professional Re-registration Expense Payments. Child care. The funding is capped at $6,000 per posting for the agreed initiatives. Existing funding caps have been removed apart from child care which remains capped at $250 per child per year and the requirement for training to be completed within 12 months has been eliminated to allow partners to undertake tertiary education to develop a longer term career option. Partners are encouraged to undertake tertiary studies through Open Universities Australia. This permits partners to continue their education wherever they may be posted. Partners may also enrol in one unit of study or an entire degree. Assistance under PEEP will attract Fringe
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Benefits Tax (FBT) that may affect government payments such as family payments, HECS, Medicare levy and child support obligations. Under Tier 2 of PEEP, partners may receive an in-financial year ‘one-off’ payment of up to $3000 which can be used for vocational courses, up to and including first time undergraduate courses. Tier 2 is available to the partners of Private to Sergeant (or equivalent) enlisted ranks and Lieutenant to Captain (and equivalent) officer ranks. To receive assistance under PEEP the following eligibility criteria must be met: You must be recognised as a partner of a full time ADF member or Reservist on continuous full time service (CFTS). • Where the partner is also an ADF member or a reservist on CFTS no entitlement to PEEP exists. • The $12,000 allowance is a one off allowance valid for ten years and is irrespective of whether the applicant has a recognized relationship with more than one member. • Assistance under PEEP must be taken up within two years of moving to your posting. Assistance is not available to partners of ADF members who are relocating on discharge.
Open Universities Australia Open Universities Australia (OUA) offers tertiary and higher education opportunities to ADF personnel, their partners and their family members. You do not have to be a PEEP applicant to access the services offered by OUA. OUA brings 20 leading Australian universities and higher education providers to you. You can study online where and when it suits you, and continue your studies if your posting changes. As a recognised partner or dependant of an ADF member you will receive OUA’s special offers of priority enrolment, textbook vouchers ($60 for each of the first five undergraduate units and $100 for each of the first five postgraduate units), enhanced academic support with an online tutor, and advice from our Enrolment Advisors to help match your career aspirations with a study plan that best suits you. So take a PEEP at your future by visiting the OUA website at www.open.edu.au/oua/peep for more information.
Set down in Ipswich A First Class Destination Arriving at a new destination is always easier when the locals are friendly. At the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre, we pride ourselves on our warm, friendly welcome and are keen to share our local knowledge with you. We’ve even organised a free orientation tour to help you get the lay of the land. So whether you’re looking for family friendly fun, outdoor adventure, adrenalin action, country coddling or a place to create enduring memories … come and Discover Ipswich. If you’re out of town, drop us a line and we’ll send you out a Discover Ipswich pack. Ipswich Visitor Information Centre (open 7 days) 14 Queen Victoria Parade, Ipswich QLD 4305 E | info@discoveripswich.com.au T | (07) 3281 0555 W | www.discoveripswich.com.au
defenceFAMILIES Talk to children about deployments Communicating appropriately with children about deployments is important in helping them understand and cope with one parent being away.
Military Lifestyle The Australian Defence Force has certain requirements of its serving members, which are formally agreed to and accepted as conditions of entry into the military. Families do not have to commit themselves to these requirements, however Defence knows that they sometimes impact as much on the family as they do on the serving member. Some of these expectations include: • Conforming to a regulated lifestyle • Being physically and medically fit • Understanding & adhering to the military command structure • Being trained and qualified for the job • Being ready and willing to serve anywhere at anytime • Abiding by military law and the regulations of the Defence Force Discipline Act • Dress and grooming standards Separation and relocation are some of the key features of a military lifestyle. Defence knows that members perform at their best when their families are well cared for and they are confident that life at home will run smoothly while they are away. The best way to achieve this is by planning ahead about family requirements during separations and relocations, and having access to appropriate support services. Family readiness is just as important for single members. Informing and involving parents, siblings, friends and other people who are important to you when preparing for relocations, separations and the unique demands of military service, are critical to sustaining these relationships.
SMART programs for Defence families Without the emotional and practical support of their families, ADF members simply could not do the job they are required to do. An ADF member has to be confident that their family is healthy and happy before they can wholeheartedly commit to doing their job and doing it well. A series of group programs that help Defence families manage stressful situations such as deployment, parental absence from home, moving house have been developed.
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TeenSMART TeenSMART workshops are for Defence teenagers to help them manage issues arising from deployment and relocation. During the workshops, Defence teenagers can meet and share their stories about being part of a military family. They can also learn some ideas and tactics to help them stay connected to their parents while they are away on deployment, and meet new friends when they move to a new posting location. The workshop also covers other things, like managing change and coping when feeling stressed out. There are tips and hints for handling emotions, and some great relaxation techniques, too.
KidSMART KidSMART are a set of four week programs for primary aged kids to help them manage issues arising from posting, relocation and deployment. The KidSMART mascots, Tyler Turtle and Sam Super help kids learn how to manage change, stay connected with friends and meet new people. Sessions are once a week for 1 to 1.5 hours per session and all children receive a story book to take home. The workshops cover other things, like helping children to cope when feeling stressed or anxious, particularly during times of parental absence and deployment. Kids can learn some techniques for handing emotions and relaxation, too. Contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 for more information or to sign up for a program.
Time should be spent with children talking truthfully about deployment. Children of different ages need to be communicated with in ways appropriate for them to understand. Very young children do not have the language to comprehend what is happening, so they may not understand that the separation may only be for a period of time. It is important for them to maintain a special relationship with another parent or carer to help them deal with the changes in their life. For toddlers, it may not be helpful to talk about a parent going away too long in advance, as they have a different sense of time. A couple of days in advance is plenty of time. Preschoolers and school age children should be included in discussions about deployments much earlier, as they will know from conversations and preparations that something is going on. Dealing with reality is better than what they may imagine to be occurring, therefore open and honest communication is important. In talking about the deployment, explain at the appropriate level why Dad and/or Mum is going, where, with whom, and for how long. Sit down with the whole family and talk about feelings. Let children know that it is okay to talk about feelings (even negative feelings) by sharing your own feelings, and let each member of the family express how they feel about the separation. It can help for each parent to spend time individually with each child prior to and after deployment to encourage communication and to let them know that they are loved. Special time together helps to cement bonds and provides positive memories. Encourage older children to talk with the younger ones about previous deployments; how long it seemed, what they did, how they felt while Mum or Dad was away and when they returned. Discussing the rules of the house and making them 'House Rules' rather than 'Mum's' or 'Dad's' rules will also help during the period of separation.
Support for parents of ADF members The Defence Community Organisation (DCO) offers information and support services for parents to help understand and manage the challenging aspects of having a son or daughter in the Services. DCO recognises that parents of ADF members can play a crucial role in providing support and advice to the ADF member and the member’s partner or dependants. Understanding what your son or daughter is going through, how they should prepare and what support is available to them can help you to do this. DCO has information and guidance for the main challenges facing Defence families: relocations and deployments. You can also become familiar with what support services are available, including special needs support, help with childcare, programs for children and support for transitioning into civilian life. You can seek support or assistance in times of difficulty, including social work, and
Appointing Power of Attorney At time of deployment it’s a good idea to consider appointing a Power of Attorney.
assistance in times of emergency or if the ADF member is injured or ill while away. Contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608. In some circumstances, a parent can be recognised as a dependant of the ADF member with the approval of the Chief of the Defence Force. This categorisation gives the parent access to a full range of Defence support services and entitlements. To be classed as a dependant, the parent must normally live with the ADF member. They may be considered as a dependant where they receive substantial financial support or personal care from the member, or where they are acting as a housekeeper or guardian for the member’s dependant child.
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives another person/s or organisation power to make decisions on your behalf, relating to personal and/or health related matters and/or financial matters. There are two types of Powers of Attorney, a General Power of Attorney which is only valid while you are living and have mental or physical capacity to deal with your affairs, or an Enduring Power of Attorney which remains valid even if you become mentally or physically incapacitated. If you die, both types of Powers lapse and your executor will then administer your estate in accordance with the directions of your will. You should only appoint someone whom you trust implicitly to act on your behalf. When you no longer require the person to act as your Attorney it is a good idea to have a revocation document signed revoking the power. Serving members can receive further information by contacting a legal representative.
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defenceFAMILIES Salary packaging of Child Care
Defence Child Care Program The purpose of the Defence Child Care Program is to facilitate access to child care for Defence families in their new posting locality, when the local community is unable to meet demand. The Defence Childcare Centres provide local, community based options for Defence Families seeking quality education and care for their children. Enrolment in the Defence Childcare Program will mean consistent education and care for Defence Families across multiple locations. Access to places at Defence child care centres is determined through the application of the Defence Priority of Access Guidelines (Defence POAG). This enables Defence families to have priority to available places in these centres, ahead of other families. The guidelines emphasise and support the requirement for Defence families to relocate for service reasons (referred to as mobility) as the principle driver for child care provision. This is achieved through applying a point system based on family composition and mobility. From July 2012 Mission Australia Early Learning Services (MAELS) commenced operation of the 22 Defence Childcare Centres nationally. A national not-for-profit community organisation MAELS has a wellproven record for the provision of quality
childcare services. As of Monday 6 August, the Defence Childcare Centre located at Victoria Barracks Melbourne will also transition to the Defence Childcare Program and commence operating under the management of MAELS. The Centre at VBM is the last of the Defence Childcare Centres to come under the umbrella of the Defence Childcare Program. MAELS is committed to providing a professional and personalised management service designed to ensure local support is readily available to the staff at each Centre which results in the provision of high quality early learning services for Defence children. Families should contact their local centre directly when making enquiries regarding enrolment. They will be provided with general information on child care at the centre and advised on what options are available in terms of Priority of Access and waiting lists. More information on the Defence Childcare Program is available at the DCO website www. defence.gov.au /dco or by contacting the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 or MAELS at 1800 757 343.
Under the Defence Flexible Remuneration Packaging Scheme, Defence members are able to package their child care fees (fringe benefits tax exempt) at employer sponsored child care centres. This includes all Defence Child Care Centres and other eligible Commonwealth Employer Sponsored Child Care Centres. Salary packaging can be arranged between Defence and the Member, where you agree to forego part of your future entitlement to salary or wages, in return for a benefit in the form of child care to the same monetary value of the salary you would receive. The combined total of salary or wages and the benefit must not exceed the total of your normal salary. When you ask Defence to pay for your child care as part of your salary package, you are choosing to forego all entitlement to Child Care Benefit (CCB) and the Child Care Tax Rebate. To be eligible for CCB, you or your partner must be liable to pay for the child care. If you salary package the cost of child care fees, this means that Defence as the employer is liable for the cost of all child care fees that are paid under salary packaging arrangements, so Defence (not you) has the legal liability to pay the fees. You must choose between either salary packaging OR receiving CCB and the Child Care Tax Rebate. Salary packaging is not beneficial for many families and it is very important that you understand the relative benefits of salary packaging against claiming CCB and the Child Care Tax Rebate. If you are considering entering into a salary packaging arrangement for your child care fees, you are strongly encouraged to seek independent financial advice. A regular pay deduction (or direct debit) from your salary or wages to pay for child care fees does not constitute a salary packaging arrangement.
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Early childhood Choosing the right child care can be a difficult decision for families. Your decision will depend on your family’s needs and the environment you and your child will feel most comfortable with. As well as providing care, child care services provide an opportunity for your child to develop social, emotional and learning skills. When deciding on the type of care that is best for your child, you may want to ask yourself: • How many hours of care do I need? The whole day? Just mornings? Just afternoons? Just a few hours a week? Or just occasionally, like when I have an appointment and need someone to look after my children? • Do I want my child cared for in a home environment or in a centre? • What kind of qualifications and experience do staff members have? • Does the centre offer a pre-school program? • What is the carer-to-child ratio? • Can I claim Child Care Benefit and Child Care Rebate if I choose a certain child care centre? Here is a quick description of the different types of child care to help you make your decision.
Long day care Long day care is sometimes referred to as centre-based care and is generally provided in a building or part of a building that has been created specifically for use as a child care centre. Centres usually operate between 7:30 am and 6:00 pm and offer professional care for children aged 0-6. Children are usually grouped in rooms according to age and developmental stage. Child care is usually available for all day or part of the day at a centre. Some centres offer morning or afternoon sessions.
Family day care Family day care is where a professional carer looks after your child in the carer’s home. This type of care is sometimes known as homebased care. Carers work mainly with children aged 0-6 who are not yet at school, but can also provide care for older school-aged children. The number of children each carer can have in their home is determined by state and territory government laws. Some carers may offer care overnight or on weekends. This may suit parents who are ‘on call’ or work shifts. Some carers are selfemployed but work in partnership with a family day care scheme.
In home care In home care is similar to family day care but the professional carer looks after the child in your child’s home. However, it is not widely available and usually only an option where other forms of care are not suitable. In home care services are for families with children who cannot be cared for by other child care centres or whose circumstances mean that an existing child care centre cannot meet their needs.
Outside school hours care Outside school hours care centres provide care for primary school aged children, before and after school (7:30 am -9:00 am and 3:00 pm -6:00 pm), during school holidays and on pupil-free days. Vacation care is a type of outside school hours care that includes indoor and outdoor activities. These centres are sometimes run by the same organisation that runs before and after-school care. Centres are usually located on primary school sites in the school hall and/or playground. Some centres are located in a child care centre, community facility or outside-school hours care centre near the primary school. Many centres offer a snack as well as the Active After-school Communities exercise program.
Kindergarten programs Kindergarten programs provide a world of carefully constructed play that early childhood experts agree develops children’s abilities and helps prepare them for school. By participating in play, art, music and movement and interacting with others, children develop their social and language skills as well as their physical abilities. Kindergarten services typically operate during school terms, with varying opening hours.
Child care waiting lists There may be situations where there are no vacancies at a child care centre you wish to use. Some child care centres have waiting lists to help determine the next placement. However, the Australian Government has Priority of Access
Family Day Care employment opportunities for spouses A range of initiatives are available through either the Defence Child Care Program (DCCP) or the Department of Employment Education and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) to assist with the initial set-up costs involved in establishing a Family Day Care business. Approved initial set-up costs include obtaining a First Aid certificate, public liability insurance, police checks, car safety certificate and registration fees. For further information or to apply for reimbursement of initial set-up costs, complete the application at www.defence.gov.au/dco/partners.
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Guidelines to ensure there is a fair child care system. The system ensures that, where there are vacancies or a waiting list for child care centres, places are allocated to families with the greatest need for child care. These guidelines apply to approved, long day care, family day care, in home care and outside school hours care centres.
Child Care Rebate The majority of child care centres are approved child care services. This means that families using the service may be eligible for Child Care Benefit and the Child Care Rebate. Approved services must also show that they are meeting certain quality standards. The Child Care Rebate is not means tested but to get it you must first claim for Child Care Benefit. The rebate is paid to you automatically if you are eligible for Child Care Benefit for approved child care.
Learning really does begin at home Your child’s brain is literally a ‘work in progress’! In the first few years of life, the brain grows rapidly. By the time your child is three years old, 90 per cent of their brain has developed. So the experiences you have with them during these years are extremely important. By creating a loving and safe place for your child to learn, you are helping them prepare for the first years of school. How children learn best Children learn best when they are happy, feel safe and have interesting things to do and interested people to help them. Children are naturally curious, full of ideas and keen to learn about the world around them. They learn by playing, watching, listening, asking, talking, having time to think, doing and trying new things, practising and repeating the things they do, and watching the responses of the people around them. Learning should be spontaneous and fun. The everyday activities you do with your child are powerful learning opportunities.
Capturing learning moments Sommuch e 3 2learning 3 8 7 3is_done D H through I S 2 _ everyday DL . p d f experiences such as hanging out the washing, going for a walk and exploring your local
• Look for words your child might know. Count how many times familiar words come up. • When reading to your child, follow the words with your finger, point to pictures and talk together about the story. • Let your child pretend to read. Children pretend to read at this stage by making up the story. This is a great start. • Show your child how to look after books such as turning the pages carefully. • Young children may lose interest quickly. Why is reading important? Repeated sessions of a good 10 minutes spread Children love being read to and sharing books throughout the day is all they need. is a great way to spend time with your child. • Turn off the television, radio and computer to • Tell stories, say or sing nursery rhymes, poems avoid distractions. and songs. Make up actions. • Visit your local library. Ask about different • Read a range of books. Read favourites over Pa ge 1 2 / 0 7 / 1 2 , 6 : 3 3 : 4 8 programs PM in your library such as Better and over. Encourage your child to join in. Don’t Beginnings and Baby Rhyme Time. object if they want to hear the same stories. environment. Capture these moments with your child. For example talking about the types of clothes in the washing helps your child develop their vocabulary. When your child guesses the number of pegs they are estimating; when they match the colour of pegs with the colour of clothing they are matching and learning colour names; and when they count the pegs they are learning about numbers and how many.
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APS EDITORIAL TOP LAYER.pdf
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APS EDITORIAL FOOTER.pdf
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Membership of APS Bene ts automatically entitles you to a funeral bene t issued by APS Bene ts. You should consider the Combined Product Disclosure Statement & Financial Services Guide (available from APS Bene ts or our web site on www.apsbs.com.au) before making a decision to become a member of APS Bene ts or buy any products offered by DISC S U R E services I N F O Rprovided M AT I O N ts.L O Financial by Australian Public Service Benevolent Society Ltd are provided under its AFSL No. 244115. APS Financial Planning Pty Ltd is a Corporate APS Bene Membership of APS Bene automatically entitles you to a funeral bene t issued byFinancial APS Beneservices ts. You should consider theFinancial Combined ProductPty Disclosure Statementunder & Financial Authorised Representative No.ts305923 of Futuro Financial Services Pty Ltd (‘Futuro’). provided by APS Planning Ltd are provided Futuro’s AFSL ServicesAPS Guide (available from APS Bene ts a orbank our web site onitwww.apsbs.com.au) before a decision to become a been member of APS Bene ts risk or buy any products offered No. 238478. Savings Disclaimer: *This is not product, is an unlisted APS Note. Nomaking independent assessment has made about the to investors losing any ofby their ts. Financial services provided by Australian Service Society Ltd are provided underaccompanies its AFSL No. 244115. APS Financial Planning Pty Savings Ltd is a Corporate APS Bene principal investment. Applications for APS Notes can onlyPublic be made onBenevolent the Investment Application Form which the prospectus issued by APS Ltd. Please read Authorised Representative No. 305923 of Futuro Financial Services Pty Ltd (‘Futuro’). Financial services provided by APS Financial Planning Pty Ltd are provided under Futuro’s AFSL the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to make an investment. APS Wills & Estates: Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. No. 238478. APS Savings Disclaimer: *This is not a bank product, it is an unlisted APS Note. No independent assessment has been made about the risk to investors losing any of their principal investment. Applications for APS Notes can only be made on the Investment Application Form which accompanies the prospectus issued by APS Savings Ltd. Please read the prospectus carefully before deciding whether to make an investment. APS Wills & Estates: Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
defenceFAMILIES Get fit with the family
Health matters
- be active every day
Work and life generally can be stressful, with the potential to affect your health and wellbeing. One of the best ways to keep healthy and fend off ill health is to lead an active lifestyle. That calls for making active living a normal part of your daily life. Whether it’s gardening, walking, swimming, cycling, tennis, taking the stairs, or walking to the corner store, it all adds up to active living. As a minimum you should engage in 30 minutes of moderate activity four days a week. And those 30 minutes can be accumulated in 10-minute segments. A brisk walk for example is ‘moderate’ activity. An active lifestyle will improve your health and your quality of life, boost your sense of self-fulfilment and increase your energy level. Reflect on your own situation, and ask yourself: at present, are you active enough to benefit your health and keep your body fit? Yes or No? If you answered “yes” you get a pat on the back. You are achieving health and fitness benefits. If you answered “No”, you probably live a sedentary lifestyle usually in a sitting position: at your desk, on the phone, in your car, at the computer, watching television or on the couch. If you are part of this group, give serious
consideration to changing your lifestyle before it’s too late. There is no time for delay. Sedentary lifestyles increase all causes of mortality, doubles the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity and substantially increases the risk of colon cancer, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, depression, and anxiety. Scary stuff. Why not take the precaution of becoming active now before you are beset with health problems that will prohibit you from doing so later in life. Here’s one way to get started. Pick an activity that you will enjoy and get started. Walking for example is the favourite activity for 70 per cent of our adult population. Walking is safe, inexpensive and one of the best exercises around. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes and the willpower to get up and go. If you haven’t exercised for some time, start off with small amounts of exercise and consult your doctor before engaging in strenuous exercise.
Remember to stretch Before any physical training session commences you should always start with a warm-up. This prepares the body for the activity to come, decreases potential for injury and reduces muscle soreness that can follow exercise. Warm-up: To start with, do some gentle
stretching. This could include shoulder rotations, upper body twists, calf stretches and ankle circles; follow with a low impact activity like running on the spot, light jogging or a brisk walk; finish with some general upper body movements such as light cross-body punching. A warm-up of around ten minutes will prepare your body.
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Cool-down: As with the warm-up, a cool-
down period is a vital component of any exercise program. This involves a gradual decrease in the intensity of exercise and level of activity, until the heart rate is returned to a resting state. By cooling down you reduce the risk of blood pooling in working muscles and the likelihood of injuries. All you need to do
If you want your kids to be fit and healthy, it’s time to show them how. Try fun activities you can do as a family in your own backyard and watch everyone’s fitness improve in no time. How is exercising with your kids benefiting them exactly? Well, the fact is children copy the adults in their lives. So if they regularly see their parents working out and eating well, then there’s a good chance they will do the same. And given that studies have shown regular exercise and a healthy diet lessens your chances of developing a whole host of serious diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and several types of cancer, providing that positive role model for your children is clearly important. There’s no doubt regular exercise is a brilliant way to boost the health of the whole family, but if that’s not enough to inspire you, then consider this: working out as a family also gives parents and kids the perfect opportunity to bond, socialise and share. In fact, a family’s core leisure activities, such as playing in the yard or gardening, are directly related to the family’s cohesion and sense of closeness. So get up and get moving. It will do wonders for your family’s health – both physical and emotional. The Heart Foundation of Australia suggests that you get your body moving for 30 minutes most days of the week and that you encourage your kids to join you. Exercise regularly and you’ll increase strength, aerobic fitness and even bone density. You’ll also boost your mood, energy levels and therefore your ability to cope with the day-to-day stresses of parenting.
is slow down gradually at the end of your exercise session, so spend 3-5 minutes reducing your pace, allowing your breathing and heart rate to return to normal. If you’re running for instance, slow down to a slow jog or walk for the last few minutes. If you’re cycling, switch to a low gear for the last part of your ride. And finally, finish your exercise routine by stretching any of the major muscle groups you’ve just worked. Try to include your hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes and calves and hold each stretch without movement for around 15-20 seconds.
Maintain fluids: It’s incredibly important that you keep up your fluids before, during and after exercise. Remaining hydrated will allow you to exercise longer and safer. A banana or protein bar mid-session will give you a bit of extra energy, and always carry water with you.
Walking for good health
National ADF Family Health Program
Physical activity does not have to be vigorous or done for long periods in order to improve your health. Regular walking can help you lose body fat, maintain a healthy weight, improve your fitness and reduce your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and some cancers. Walking is low impact, requires minimal equipment, can be done at any time of day and can be performed at your own pace. You can get out and walk without worrying about some of the risks associated with other more vigorous forms of exercise. It’s also a great form of physical activity for people who are overweight, elderly or those who haven’t exercised in a long time.
Walk for 30 minutes a day
Benefits of walking
Footwear is important
You carry your own body weight when you walk. This is sometimes called ‘weight bearing’ exercise. Some of the benefits include increased cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness, reduced risk of heart disease and stroke, stronger bones and improved balance, increased muscle strength and reduced body fat.
Try to walk for at least 30 minutes as briskly as you can most days of the week. ‘Brisk’ means that you can still talk but not sing, and you may be puffing slightly. Try to make walking a routine by walking at the same time each day. Remember, you use the same amount of energy no matter what time of day you walk, so do what is most convenient for you. Walking is a low cost and effective form of exercise. However, the wrong type of shoe or walking action can cause foot or shin pain, blisters and injuries to soft tissue. Make sure your shoes are comfortable, with appropriate heel and arch supports. Take light, easy steps and make sure your heel touches down before your toes.
The National ADF Family Health Program will commence on 1st January 2014. This is great news for Defence families all over Australia, as it will provide for free basic healthcare to dependants of ADF members. Dependants of permanent ADF members and dependants of Reservists on continuous full time Service are eligible to register for the Program which has been implemented to cover some of the gap expenses of family visits to a general practitioner or allied health professional. For families who already have private health insurance, the Program benefits can be used in addition to your private health insurance benefits. As an example of the benefit you will receive, if your GP charges $60 and the Medicare Rebate is $35, you will be reimbursed $25. All services must be listed under a Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Item Number to be eligible for a refund. $400 per family member per financial year will be available to use towards allied health services such as optometry, dental and physio. This can also be transferred between family members. The services accessed are considered a fringe benefit. To register for the Program the ADF member must complete WebForm AD858-1 ADF Family Health which can be found at: www.defence.gov.au/health/Dependant_ Healthcare/i-healthcare.htm
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defenceFAMILIES
Make the most of life
- and stay happy
Everyone wants to be happy but achieving that personal ambition is not as easy as just wanting it to happen. Pressures in life impact on our feelings of wellbeing, sometimes considerably, leading potentially to severe emotional problems. In the Defence family context, on the surface it seems that frequent transfers, as is the case in any military organization, affect a family’s feelings of wellbeing and happiness. But looking deeper reveals that the overriding factor in achieving positive family outcomes is the family’s perception of the move and how well the family has integrated in the new location. The family’s sense of belonging and successful integration into the new community has been found to be a strong predictor of positive family outcomes. A number of studies show that children of military couples actually enjoy a number of benefits from moving around, especially in the development of social skills and confidence in different situations – along with a broader education experience. For children, a sense of wellbeing and happiness in the new location is very much dependent upon the parents’ behaviour and perception of what’s going on, as this is taken up by the children: how they perceive themselves, how they perceive the world around them at the time, and how they perceive what it takes to be ok.
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Most people want to be happy, and this is a result of how we perceive ourselves in a complex life environment. If we feel we are achieving success at work and at home then we feel happy but if we have unrealistic expectations of what it takes to be successful then inevitably when those unachievable expectations are not met, then we feel disappointed and that we have failed. A number of programs exist to help people improve their situation. For example, some hospitals run programs developed for the Department of Veterans Affairs, which comprises ‘classes’ aimed at people who perceive that their life is not all they want it to be. Other challenges relate to ‘where to go from here’ after being in an institution such as the Defence Forces for a long time, especially those who don’t reflect much on their future after a military career and lifestyle, which can lead to a quite stressful situation. However, the problem with emotional stress is that it doesn’t really go away, and it’s better to work through those issues with a professional counsellor.
Healthy body + healthy mind The World Health Organisation defines good health as ‘a complete state of physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’. Accordingly, Defence acknowledges that the mental and social areas of our lives are just as important as our physical bodies. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) Mental Health Strategy seeks to reinforce the concept of ‘well being’ in life for members and their families. It recognises that mental health is not just related to diagnosable mental disorders, but covers a broad range of lifestyle, mental wellbeing and job performance factors. The strategy has a primary focus on prevention and evidence-based treatment to maximise retention and enhance the quality of life for Defence personnel. This strategy involves an educational campaign for ADF personnel and early intervention and preventative strategies for the ADF. It promotes programs that improve selfesteem, encourage a positive outlook and a feeling of acceptance and belonging. For further information visit the ADF Mental Health Strategy website, which contains various resources, fact sheets and mental health contacts. For confidential advice, call the All Hours Support Line: 1800 628 036 (FREECALL within Australia) www.defence.gov.au/health
With the largest range of healthcare services in the one place, Wesley is the one.
The Wesley Hospital
07 3232 7000
451 Coronation Drive Auchenflower www.wesley.com.au
Wesley Emergency Centre
07 3232 7333
Open 24 hours / 7 days a week
Wesley Rehabilitation Service
07 3232 6190
Services include in-patient rehabilitation, pain management rehabilitation and back rehabilitation
The Wesley Maternity Unit 07 3232 7432 We understand the special moments. Our Maternity Unit is a caring environment staffed by experiences specialists.
The Wesley Breast Clinic 07 3232 7202 Early detection remains the key to surviving breast cancer. If you are over 40, book into the Wesley Breast Clinic for your routine mammogram – it may save your life.
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QUEENSLAND
Living and working in Queensland
South east Queensland is one of the most popular Defence posting destinations because of the lifestyle, weather and variety in employment opportunities for Defence personnel and families. These families tend to live in three main areas: Brisbane, Ipswich and the Darling Downs.
Brisbane
With a population of just over 1.2 million, Brisbane is Australia’s third largest city and the state capital of Queensland. Brisbane is considered to be one of the most vibrant and fastest growing centers in Australia today.
Culture The cultural heart of Brisbane is the Queensland Cultural Centre at the South Bank Precinct where the Queensland Art Gallery, State Library and Queensland Museum provide a variety of cultural pursuits. QPAC is also the ‘second home’ to some of the state’s leading performing arts companies including the Queensland Theatre Company, Queensland Ballet, The Queensland Orchestra and Opera Queensland. Brisbane has many other noted theatre venues, among which are The Powerhouse Theatre at New Farm which offers a mix of theatre, workshops and art programs, and LaBoite Theatre at Kelvin Grove which presents exciting theatre in an intimate roundhouse format.
Parks and Gardens Brisbane is home to two world-class botanic gardens: the City Botanic Gardens and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens. The City Gardens, located on the banks of the Brisbane River adjacent to Parliament House, were established in 1855 and are popular with visitors and city workers alike.
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The Brisbane Botanic Gardens are located at the base of Mount Coot-tha in the historic inner suburb of Toowong, only 7 kilometres from the CBD. The gardens feature a magnificent tropical display dome, a lagoon, Japanese gardens, themed gardens on 52 hectares and the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. In the heart of Brisbane, the sixteen-hectare Roma Street Parkland is a green oasis of subtropical plants surrounding a one-hectare lake. Across from the city centre, the 17-hectare South Bank parkland stretches for more than a kilometre along the banks of the Brisbane River. The parkland incorporates diverse landscape styles, from rainforests to lush lawn areas and formal gardens. Over 5.5 million people each year enjoy the recreation, entertainment and dining pleasures which South Bank parklands has to offer.
Defence The Army has the largest presence in Brisbane, with the major establishment located in the suburb of Enoggera. There is also a Naval establishment at Bulimba on the south side of Brisbane and an Army Promotion and Training Centre located in the Gold Coast Hinterland at Canungra. The RAAF base at Amberley is located in Ipswich about a 50 minute drive west of Brisbane.
Brisbane Exhibition - The ‘Ekka’ 8 - 17 August 2014
HOT SPOTS The Cultural Precinct Located just across the river from the Brisbane CBD, the Cultural Precinct, South Bank is the arts and cultural hub of Brisbane. Within a day in the Cultural Precinct, you can investigate your family history, measure yourself up against a dinosaur, see a show, admire the work of Australian artists, dine, shop and take in the great view of the city from the beautiful park surroundings. The precinct is comprised of Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Museum South Bank, Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) and State Library of Queensland and is situated at the South Bank side of the Victoria Bridge. See Australian and international artworks at the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. See a play, opera, ballet at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre [QPAC]. The Queensland Museum is an exciting way to learn about natural history, cultural history and science, and the Sciencentre is especially popular with the kids. The State Library has something for everyone including books, multimedia, computers, internet, displays and activities. From October to December swing on by every Friday at dusk for Green Jam Sessions; a free evening of smooth jazz, chilled beverages and great company held at QPAC’s Melbourne Street Green. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the working week and start the weekend wind down with colleagues, friends and family.
South Bank It’s hard to imagine Brisbane without this popular destination. Visitors and locals enjoy South Bank’s sandy beach, the open grassy picnic spots, the shops and dozens of eating places. There are cinemas, free live entertainment and many festivals and fireworks throughout the year.
Story Bridge Named after John Douglas Story, Brisbane’s Story Bridge links the inner city suburbs of Fortitude Valley and Kangaroo Point. Have a picnic or BBQ under the bridge at Captain Burke Park or eat out at the historic Story Bridge Hotel. For the more adventurous, take a climb over the bridge itself with Story Bridge Adventure Climb.
Grab a CityCat Even locals love to get out on the Brisbane River and it’s so easy and cheap to do with a journey on the CityCat. Take a cruise up and down the river, stopping wherever you like along the way – South Bank, University of Queensland, New Farm. The CityCats glide over the water and you’ll see multi-milliondollar houses, parks and the city centre. Travel under the Story Bridge and get a whole new perspective.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Markets Brisbane’s outdoor markets are hugely popular. Shop for arts and crafts at the Riverside Markets, Eagle Street every Sunday from 7am to 4pm, or at the Southbank Markets each Friday night from 5pm to 10pm, Saturday from 11am to 5pm and Sunday from 9am to 5pm. Fresh produce markets are run every Saturday morning (7am to 3pm) at Davies Park at West End, and organic produce is available at the Northey Street Markets at Windsor on Saturdays (6am to 10.30am). The Farmers Markets at the Powerhouse, New Farm on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month (6am to 11.30am) offers a wide variety of seasonal produce, including cheeses, home-made ginger beer and freshly baked breads.
Visitors just love the abundant and easily seen Australian wildlife at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Hold a koala, feed a kangaroo and hear a talk about our reptiles – it all makes for a great day out. There’s no need to leave the city to experience our amazing animals.
Mt Coot-tha Lookout Even if you only have an hour or so to spare, take the drive up to the top of Mt Coot-tha to get a view of the whole of Brisbane city. You’ll see the curves of the river, the lines of the freeway, the skyline of the CBD. Plus, on a clear day you can see south-west to the distant ranges and east towards Moreton Bay. Cafe, restaurant and lookout at the top.
The Brisbane Ekka is Queensland’s largest classroom, and it’s going to be bigger than ever from 2014, with two whole weekends of exhibition fun. Kicking off on Friday 8th August and wrapping up on Sunday 17th August, the Ekka is rich with interactive exhibits and activities for students. There’s nothing quite like a hands-on experience to crystallise learning experiences into lifelong memories. The Ekka provides incredible opportunities for children to explore the world while making friends with those closer to home in the animal nursery. For more than 130 years, the Ekka has been a place for families to create fun-filled memories as their kids interact with the animals. Cuddle a lamb, watch a chicken hatch, feed a calf, or milk a cow - there are lots of ways for your young ones to get involved with nature’s young ones. About 10,000 animals visit Ekka, including 2,500 dogs, 300 cats, 200 fish, 150 alpacas and 2,500 cattle. Visit the beef pavilion, spend time watching the horse events in the main showground ring, try your skill in side-show alley, and don’t go home before you’ve tried a traditional Ekka strawberry ice-cream.
Woodford Folk Festival 27 December 2014 - 1 January 2015 Woodford never was a purely music festival, nor a folk festival in the traditional sense. It is something much more than that - a celebration of wider folk culture, traditional and contemporary, in all its facets. Music, dance, street theatre, visual arts, film, indigenous culture, circus, vaudeville, comedy, art and craft workshops, poetry and storytelling and environmental awareness and action are all part of the mix. Woodford is one of the biggest annual cultural events of its type in Australia. Held on a 200 hectare rural property in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, the festival takes place over six days and nights each year. The final evening culminates in a spectacular New Year’s Day closing ceremony, the Fire Event. Come for a day or stay for the week, camping is available on-site. Come and join us for the party!
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QUEENSLAND
Defence in Queensland
Queensland has one of the highest concentrations of Australian Defence Force establishments in Australia, with major military bases at Amberley near Ipswich, Townsville, Enoggera in Brisbane and Oakey west of Toowoomba, covering the entire south east region from the Gold Coast to Toowoomba. Other smaller defence establishments are at Bulimba in Brisbane, Canungra in the Gold Coast hinterland and Cabarlah on the Darling Downs. NAVY The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) maintains a significant presence in South Queensland through its Navy Headquarters at Bulimba on the Brisbane River. Although there are no ships or commissioned establishments in Brisbane there is a high level of naval activity in and around South Queensland. Navy Headquarters – South Queensland (NHQ-SQ) Navy Headquarters – South Queensland (NHQ-SQ) is the focal point of naval activity in South Queensland and supports RAN personnel who serve in the area. Bulimba Barracks is also home to the highly respected Queensland detachment of the Royal Australian Naval Band, Australian Naval Reserve Dive Team Eight, and Australian Naval Cadet Headquarters. HMAS Cairns With a responsibility extending from Rockhampton to Thursday Island, HMAS Cairns has 900 Navy and civilian personnel and is the homeport for 14 Naval vessels. HMAS Cairns provides maintenance, logistical and administrative support for Cairns-based fleet units.
ARMY Brisbane Gallipoli Barracks, located at Enoggera, Brisbane is home base to more than 4,500 military and civilian members of the Australian Defence Organisation. It is one of the most centrally located barracks in a capital city, being only seven kilometres from the city centre. It is one of the largest Army bases
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in Australia and home to Headquarters 1st Division and the Deployable Joint Force Headquarters (Land), the integrated Regular/Reserve Headquarters 7th Brigade, Headquarters 16th Brigade (Aviation) and the Division’s subordinate units. Amberley Although primarily an air base, Amberley now has a substantial Australian Army presence in the 9th Forward Support Battalion, the 21st Construction Squadron, and the recently established Chora Valley Lines driver and maintenance training facility. Darling Downs The Army Aviation Centre located at Oakey 30km west of Toowoomba is home to the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre, the School of Army Aviation and the Army Helicopter School. Borneo Barracks at Carbarlah on the Darling Downs is home to 7th Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare) and the Electronic Warfare Wing of the Defence Force School of Signals. Canungra Located in the Gold Coast hinterland, Kokoda Barracks in Canungra is home to the Defence Intelligence Training Centre. The famous barracks, once the location of the Jungle Training Centre and its training facilities, still runs courses ranging from pre-command courses to battalion live-fires. Townsville Lavarack Barracks, Townsville is home to the Australian Army’s 3rd Brigade, plus support and logistics units. It is one of the Australian Army’s largest military bases, home to about 4,500 soldiers. The brigade forms the major
combat component of the ADF’s Ready Deployment Force held at the highest degree of readiness for operations. The arrival in December 2011 of the 3rd Battalion Royal Australian Regiment concentrated 3 Brigade units in one geographic location, which significantly improved Army’s ability to prepare and deploy high readiness forces in defence of Australia’s national interests.
AIR FORCE RAAF Base Amberley RAAF Base Amberley is the largest air base in Australia, employing more than 4500 people. It is 40kms southwest of Brisbane on the outskirts of Ipswich. Best-known over the past four decades as home to the F-111 strike aircraft, withdrawn from service in December 2010, it is now home to two squadrons of F/A18F Super Hornet fighter/strike aicraft. A large number of units call Amberley home including Headquarters Combat Support Group, 82 Wing (F/A-18F Super Hornet) and 36 Squadron (C-17A Globemaster III heavy transport aircraft) and 33 Squadron (KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport). RAAF Base Townsville RAAF Base Townsville is an important forward operating base located north-west of Townsville, with more than 1000 personnel including Air Force, Army and Defence civilians. It is home to the RAAF’s King Air 350s of 38 Squadron and Army’s 5th Aviation Regiment with Blackhawk and Tiger Armed Reconnaissance helicopters.
EVENTS Moonlight Cinemas 12 December 2013 - 23 February 2014
Caxton Street Seafood Festival 4 May 2014
Brisbane has the ideal climate to watch movies by moonlight, and this summer there is no shortage of outdoor cinemas; from free movies in the park to moonlit movies offering live music and more. Moonlight Cinema, at the Brisbane Powerhouse in New Farm Park, is an outdoor cinema screening new releases, contemporary, and classic movies from December 12 to February 23. An open air cinema also operates at Southbank Parklands from October through to December.
Not being located next to any large bodies of water doesn’t stop Caxton Street in Paddington from throwing one of Brisbane’s biggest seafood festivals. For one enormous day, the normally busy street is closed to vehicle traffic and instead becomes a throbbing mass of people imbibing prawns, oysters and yes, lots of beer to the sounds of live music on two stages. The focus is on having a good time and thousands throw themselves into it. Ticketed entry, with a portion donated to charity.
SupaNova Pop Culture Expo 4 April 2014 Geeks, nerds, moviebuffs, gamers, fanboys and fangirls all unite when Supanova explodes through the stratosphere and into Brisbane. Held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre, SupaNova is where the public comes face to face with Supa-Star celebrities and the creative talent that inspire their imaginary worlds. Gathered from and surrounded by the wonderful worlds of comic books, animation/ cartoons, science-fiction, pulp TV/movies, fantasy, entertainment technology, books and internet sites, the result is an amazing atmosphere tailor made for expressing your inner geek and where getting into cosplay (cos-tume role-play) is the obvious thing to do! It’s Comic-con, Australian style!
Paniyiri 17 - 18 May 2014 Celebrating all things Greek, Brisbane loves this festival for the opportunity to eat lots of delicious Greek food. Fried haloumi, marinated baby octopus, and those heavenly honey puffs are what Paniyiri is known for. Well yes, Paniyiri is also a cultural festival with events about Greek culture, history and the achievements of the local community but it wouldn’t be Paniyiri without the genuine greek food, wine and beer. Yassou!
Brisbane Festival September 2014 Brisbane will be in full festive swing as acclaimed international and Australian artists and productions, free outdoor events, homegrown productions and the cutting edge and offbeat burst across theatres, galleries, parks and public spaces. The festival promises to intrigue, delight and inspire with its programme of dance, theatre, opera, classical music, visual arts, circus, sideshow and contemporary music. Various venues.
SunSuper Riverfire 27 September 2014
As a fitting finale to the Brisbane Festival, the night sky explodes, a thumping beat sounds and over half a million spectators on Brisbane’s riverbanks, backyards and balconies look up in awe. It could only mean one thing - Brisbane Riverfire! The celebration starts as early as 12noon, when people arrive to stake out their favourite vantage points. The fireworks extravaganza is matched only by the inspiring soundtrack shaped by 104.5 TripleM. Best vantage points are South Bank Parklands, Kangaroo Point cliffs, Victoria Bridge, and the City Riverwalk.
Fun, Food, Friends and close proximity to Enoggera Barracks
The Gaythorne RSL Sub-Branch Inc. offers a free pension and advocacy service to serving and ex-serving members and their dependants. We handle claims for Service Pension, Disability Pension, Military Compensation and War Widow’s Pension. We are also able to assist with any appeals on decisions through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Veterans’ Review Board and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. The Gaythorne RSL Welfare Section is located at the SubBranch at 534 Samford Road Mitchelton (Enter via Tel-El-Kebir Street). The Welfare Section is open during business hours Monday to Friday.
The Gaythorne RSL Women’s Auxiliary assists the Sub-Branch in all of its endeavours concerning the wellbeing of serving and ex-serving members of the Defence Force. The Auxiliary meets monthly and is very keen to welcome new members. If you would like to be involved with a fun and friendly group of ladies, please contact President Sharon McLaren on 3351 8764.
Open 7 days 10am until Midnight. Facilities include Bars, Gaming, TAB & Caffe Suprimo
Phone: 3355
4655 I
534 Samford Road Mitchelton QLD 4051
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defenceLife 27
QUEENSLAND
Education and Defence families Regular interstate transfers and deployments are all part of the job for Defence personnel, but often it is families who are affected most by the change of location and particularly the change of education system. To help alleviate some of the impact when transfering between schools, Defence provides a first-class educational advisory service.
The education system in Australia is open to all people. It offers an opportunity for all age groups and levels of ability. You can get into any level of education if you have the entry requirements. If at first you do not reach the entry standard, then you can do other study to get to the standard. Help is available for all people who suffer disadvantage. School is compulsory for all children aged between five and fifteen years. These ages may vary slightly in some states. The government provides public schools. Churches and other groups provide private schooling. Public schooling is free and users pay fees for private schooling.
Education Support The Education Assistance Scheme (EAS) provides a range of financial support to Defence children. Tutoring: School aged children on transfer to a new location may be entitled to 14 weeks of tutoring in any subject identified by the school as indicating a gap in the child’s learning. Boarding School Allowances: Assistance may be available under the EAS to enable ADF families to access boarding school for a dependant in the critical years of schooling. Special Needs Assistance: The EAS can provide assistance for assessment, therapy and additional support for students who are
Where young men forge their own path PREP TO YEAR 12 . BOARDING YEAR 4 TO YEAR 12
Mt Maria College is a Catholic Co-educational College in the Marist Tradition with 740 students in years 8 - 12, located at Mitchelton. Our new campus provides a welcoming environment where each individual has the opportunity to develop their full potential in preparation for life and work in the real world. For further information on the Brisbane Boys’ College journey, phone 3309 3658 or visit www.bbc.qld.edu.au
28
Request an Enrolment Pack TODAY
receiving these services. Tuition fees may also be provided for a child with special needs. Defence Scholarships: Defence sponsors four scholarships per year for dependants of personnel working in Defence Organisation, and is managed by AFS Intercultural Programs Australia and DCO.
Defence School Transition Program The Defence School Transition Aide Program has two parts; Defence School Transition Aides in 133 primary schools and 50 Defence Transition Mentors in secondary schools nationally. This program is designed to facilitate the best possible educational outcomes for dependants of ADF members and to provide support during parental absences for service reasons. Defence recognises that some children of ADF members may experience some disruption to both the academic and social aspects of their schooling each time they move. The different structures of the education systems between Australian states and territories can result in learning gaps. DSTAs support the smooth transition of mobile ADF dependants from school to school and across curriculum jurisdictions upon ADF relocations or postings. The DSTA is a schoolbased position which focuses on practical support integrated into the classroom, school and school community. Some activities performed by DSTAs include: • being a point of contact for parents of new ADF children in the school • coordinating appropriate welcome and farewell activities • introducing ADF parents and children to the school and its facilities • supporting individual children during parental absences • providing opportunities for ADF families to meet other ADF families • enhancing the relationship between the school and their Defence community To find out which schools have DSTAs in your region, contact the Regional Education Liaison Officer at your local Defence Community Organisation (DCO) Office. www.defence.gov.au/dco
Transferring to another school The Interstate Student Data Transfer Note system is designed to transfer information between schools about students who move interstate, enabling new schools to support the educational placements of new students. Curriculum resource lists and a prospectus containing detailed information on school policies, courses, and enrolment procedures are available from schools. When transferring between schools: • consider timing - will the move coincide with the change of term? • involve your children in discussions and decisions about moving this may help allay any fears or concerns they have if you are moving from another state. • discuss the forthcoming move with your current school and collect documentation outlining student achievement levels and education history - this will help with appropriate placement at the new school • prepare a list of your children’s particular needs - e.g. preferred subjects, sporting and other interests, transport needs, extracurricular activities • consider subject choices, special education provisions, transport to and from school, traineeship programs, and cultural and sporting opportunities • consider behaviour management, discipline and uniform policies, the school buildings and grounds.
Teaching
Faith-based lifelong learning in a Christian community that engages the whole person.
Challenging
Pursuing academic excellence to encourage students to realise their potential.
Transforming
Nurturing the gifts of each individual in partnership with parents.
defenceLife 29
QUEENSLAND
Schooling in Queensland From 2015, Year 7 will become the first year of high school in Queensland. Moving Year 7 is a significant reform that will benefit students at all Queensland schools. Queensland Education consulted widely before introducing this change, which is supported by Queensland’s state, Catholic and independent school sectors. This move follows the successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007. In 2008 the entry age for Year 1 was raised by six months, bringing Queensland into line with other states. By 2015 more than half the students in Year 7 will be turning 13. Educators agree that young teenagers are ready for greater independence and the depth of learning that high schools provide, which is why in most other states and territories Year 7 is already the first year of high school. Introducing a Prep year in 2007 greatly benefited Queensland students and they now enjoy an additional year of schooling. By 2015 Queensland Year 7 students will be in their eighth year of school, and this is the right year for high school to begin.. In high school, Year 7 students will have access to specialist resources, such as science labs and science teachers. They will be able to keep pace with students in other states and territories, where Year 7 has been in high school for a long time. Queensland Year 7 students will be better positioned to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the new Australian Curriculum as it is rolled out over the coming years.
Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School “a community to believe in” Students, staff and parents enjoy a welcoming, vibrant and dynamic learning community at Our Lady of the Assumption at Enoggera.
Its unique character is shaped by:
• Respect and Responsibility • Support for ADF students and families • Exceptional retention rates for our upper primary students • Technology integrated throughout curriculum (Prep-year 7) • Easy access to up-to-date technology • A creative curriculum • A caring community/ partnership for success
FOR MORE INFORMATION PHONE 073355 2388
E penoggera@bne.catholic.edu.au W www.olaenoggera.qld.edu.au 9 Hurdcotte Street, Enoggera Qld 4051
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Ipswich city is ideally positioned on the national road network - 40 minutes drive from Brisbane, an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast and 60 minutes drive from domestic and international air and sea ports. Ipswich comprises an area of 1207 square kms and has a population of 155,000 people. Ipswich enjoys a subtropical climate and is a safe, friendly and multicultural city. Ipswich offers all the modern facilities and attractions of a progressive city. From a city reliant on past economic strengths of coal mining, railway workshops and a variety of other manufacturing enterprises, Ipswich has transformed into a city creating new development, business and employment opportunities for its citizens. As Queensland’s oldest provincial city, Ipswich has a rich history. It is renowned for its architectural, natural and cultural heritage. Ipswich proudly preserves and still operates from many of its historical buildings and homes, with more than 6000 heritage-listed sites. Ipswich also has a range of charming townships within the western rural areas of the city, each with its own legitimate claims of historical significance.
Culture Ipswich Civic Hall was officially opened on July 19, 1975. At that time, the Civic Hall was largely seen as a community centre. These days, the facility is so much more, thanks largely to the Festival of Theatre Program. Through this vibrant, evolving initiative, Ipswich Civic Hall has reinvented itself as a stunning combination of premier entertainment venue and community-focused function centre with an extensive year-round program of local, national and international theatre events. Ipswich hosts regular national and local festivals and events such as the Queensland Open Golf Championships, Ipswich Cup - the city’s annual major horse race, drag racing’s finest at the Winternationals held at Willowbank Raceway, Queensland 400 V8 supercars at Queensland Raceway, and the Ipswich Festival.
Living and working in Ipswich
Parks and Gardens
Ipswich is centrally located in booming south-east Queensland. It is home to RAAF Base Amberley, and one of the fastest growing areas in Australia. To the east is the capital city, Brisbane, and to the west are the rural and agricultural areas of the Brisbane, Lockyer and Fassifern valleys.
Ipswich’s River Heart Parklands brings alive the Bremer River. The parkland is situated on 1.5 hectares of land, which has been transformed into a widely recognised and commended leisure facility. Queens Park contains significant cultural heritage values not only for Ipswich but for Queensland. Its original architectural design dates back to 1862 and is perhaps Ipswich’s most well-known landmark.
Defence RAAF Base Amberley is the largest operational base in the Air Force employing approximately 3,000 Service and civilian personnel. This accounts for about 10,000 people contributing to the Ipswich and Brisbane communities. DHA manages over 650 properties in the Ipswich area, covering areas throughout Ipswich and from Rosewood to Forest Lake and Springfield.
Come and enjoy the huge diversity of Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich LEAGUES CLUB IPSWICH
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All this is available with a membership of ONLY $11
For more information, please contact Brothers on 07 3817 2999 I Wildey Street, Raceview I Website: www.brothersipswich.com.au defenceLife 31
QUEENSLAND Welcome from Ipswich Mayor, Paul Pisasale The City of Ipswich is known for many things, from its rich heritage to its railway and mining past, but none as prevalent as our relationship with the RAAF Base Amberley.
Discover Ipswich Ipswich City has much to offer visitors. Take one of the City’s many heritage trails and you will discover grand heritage homes, legendary pubs, beautiful parks and gardens – and the rich history of Ipswich. For more information on tourist attractions and events in Ipswich go to the Discover Ipswich website at www. discoveripswich.com.au
The men and women who serve at the base are a part of Ipswich’s growing community and with the base expected to be home to 5000 people in 2014, we warmly welcome and encourage new arrivals to get to know their new home city and enjoy all the fantastic facilities Ipswich has to offer. Our neighbours at the RAAF Base Amberley do tremendous work for our country and as our city has embraced our defence personnel, we hope in turn you embrace the city as your own. Ipswich is a great location for defence personnel, their partners and children with so much to see and do. Our fabulous parks and recreation areas have so much to offer including the zero-depth water play area at River Heart Parklands and the free Ipswich Nature Centre at Queens Park. Our vibrant cultural heart means fine food
and entertainment is not far away. The Ipswich Art Gallery is the most popular regional gallery in Australia with exciting exhibitions featured throughout the year, including hands on activities at the Children’s Gallery. The Ipswich Civic Centre is also a great choice for entertainment with a variety of local, national and international shows on throughout the year. We encourage all new arrivals to embrace Ipswich and make the most of your time here. Council’s website www.ipswich.qld.gov.au and Discover Ipswich www.discoveripswich. com.au are great places to learn more about what’s on around the region. Welcome to the Ipswich family, we look forward to enjoying your company. Mayor Paul Pisasale City of Ipswich
I New & Used Cars I Service I Parts I Finance I Vehicle Detailing I PH 3816 6700 I PH 3816 6777 I PH 3816 6766 I PH 3816 6700 I PH 3816 6777 I bremersales@bremerford.com.au I bremerservice@bremerford.com.au I bremerparts@bremerford.com.au I bremerfinance@bremerford.com.au I bremerservice@bremerford.com.au 32
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For more information, please contact the Fairways Brookwater Sales Office Rob Mills 0412 157 689 or 07 3814 6199 Melaleuca Drive, Brookwater Queensland 4300 Entry via roundabout onto Tournament Drive, right on Melaleuca Drive
fairwaysbrookwater.com.au Disclaimer: *Eligibility criteria apply ** Based on recent rental appraisals. The figures provided are of a general nature only and are not financial advice. Purchasers should make their own enquiries and seek independent advice based on their own particular circumstances. Images are indicative of house type and final product may differ from that shown.
QUEENSLAND
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HOT SPOTS
$10.50 movie tickets at Birch Carroll and Coyle Ipswich Cinemas for all ADF Members.
Heritage Buildings Ipswich is a town rich in history. In the 1850s, Ipswich aspired to become the capital of Queensland. Although it lost this honour to Brisbane, it was a prosperous and confident city and this is reflected in its buildings which include imposing public offices, several of the oldest churches in Queensland, legendary pubs, numerous fine mansions and a large number of historic houses and cottages. Pick up a Heritage Trail booklet from the Visitor Information Centre and discover Ipswich for yourself.
Ipswich Art Gallery
Piecing together the future
IPSWICHCITYSQUARE Woolworths • Harvey Norman Computers & Electrical Birch Carroll & Coyle Cinemas • Dimmeys 35 food and specialty retailers www.ipswichcitysquare.com.au Nicholas Street Mall, Ipswich. Phone 3812 2111.
Ipswich Art Gallery is located in the restored old town hall in the heart of Ipswich Central. The Gallery presents a program of changing exhibitions, heritage displays, family activities, complementary performances and art workshops. It is one of the most-visited regional art galleries in Australia. The Ipswich Art Gallery is a wheelchair and pram-friendly venue with a large internal lift. Friendly volunteers will help you to find your way around, and help to bring your visit alive. Open 7 days a week, free entry, closed only Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day, Anzac Day and Good Friday.
The Workshops Rail Museum 'The Workshops' as it is affectionately known is a site steeped in history. The very first train to run in Queensland steamed from here to Grandchester, over 140 years ago. For decades the site was the centre of rail construction, maintenance and technology for Queensland’s burgeoning rail industry. The rebirth of the site in 2002 as a world class rail museum, coupled with the oldest continually operating railway workshops in Australia, makes for a visitor experience second to none. Take a 30 minute tour into the real Workshops, see the sparks fly and feel the heat of the furnaces and thud on massive one-tonne hammers in the Blacksmith Shop.
Queens Park
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Queens Park is located in Ipswich central. It contains significant cultural heritage values not only for Ipswich but for Queensland, as it was the first park to be developed in Queensland, first being surveyed in 1842. It is perhaps Ipswich's most well known landmark. Within Queens Park you will find the Ipswich Nature Centre, where you will see a range of Australian wildlife, including birds, emus, wallabies and koalas. Entry is free, and the kids will love it.
Nerima Gardens Located within Queens Park, Nerima Gardens are the Japanese Gardens of Ipswich. A place of peace and tranquillity, a place to meet nature and calm the spirit. Its close proximity to the Ipswich City Centre allows for easy access to shady gardens and a relaxing lunch time outing.
Westside BMW
Sales Finance Service Parts
Discover choice, convenience anD oPPortUnity. Experience the difference at Westside BMW. Located just off the Centenary Highway at Darra beside Gardenway, Westside BMW welcomes Defence personnel and families to the Western Brisbane community.
With the full range of BMW models with exciting opportunities available, a state-of-the-art showroom, and an exceptional team focussed on premium customer service, we can make your relocation easier, or help celebrate an official promotion with a new, demonstrator or used BMW. We offer special packages for Defence personnel to suit all lifestyle and family needs and can arrange finance all in the one convenient location.
Westside BMW 275 Monier Road, Darra. (Exit off Centenary Motorway.) Tel: (07) 3363 7522. westsidebmw.com.au
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Proudly supporting the Defence community
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EVENTS Ipswich Festival 24 April - 11 May 2014 The Ipswich Festival is recognised as an extraordinarily successful regional festival. Combining the best performers from their region and inviting the nation’s major artists to join them for celebrations, the Ipswich Festival features a cultural and arts program as diverse and exciting as any on offer throughout the country. Ranging from the extremely popular Street Parade, to the exclusive black tie Mayor’s Festival Ball, from the multicultural Global Fiesta and programs exclusively for children. The Festival includes Art Exhibitions, Theatre, Street Art, Craft Exhibitions, Orchestral Concerts and the acclaimed Jazz, Wine and Blues Day.
2013 FUCHS Winternationals 6 - 9 June 2014
Willowbank Raceway offers fast-paced events over the Queen’s Birthday Weekend. The Winternationals is the largest championship drag race held outside of the United States and includes slot-car races, kart and short
circuit racing. Thursday and Friday offer the opportunity to watch the qualifying rounds and visit the pits, then races take place on Saturday and Sunday. Home of Queensland drag racing, 45 minutes west of Brisbane, and ten minutes from Ipswich, Willowbank Raceway has recently undergone a A$1 million resurfacing project. It hosts a variety of major national events, building on the growing popularity of auto sport.
Ipswich Cup 14 June 2014
The Ipswich Winter Racing Carnival kicks off in May and finishes with the biggest day of the year on the Ipswich racing calendar - Ipswich Cup Day on 14th June. It’s a great day for social networking, with fashions on the field, bands, and of course the horses and racing. Set yourself up in one of the many hospitality marquees or take a couple of picnic rugs and pick a spot on the lawn overlooking the winning post.
Goodna Jacaranda Festival 24 - 26 October 2014
The Goodna Jacaranda Festival is held at Evan Marginson Park, Goodna on the last weekend in October. The park is surrounded by Jacaranda trees, some of which were planted as early as 1932 during the Great Depression. Each year as they burst into bloom the festival comes alive. Heaps of market stalls, art and craft, free admission, face painting for the kids, and a huge parade on the Saturday.
Grotto Fest, Marburg 2 November 2014
GrottoFest is an Ipswich well-kept secret. Back in its 6th year, GrottoFest is set to deliver its biggest line-up yet for local blues, roots and rock lovers. GrottoFest has attracted some of Australia’s premier music acts to its idyllic country setting at Marburg’s JayLee Park - just a short 20 minute drive from Brisbane. With twelve hours of live, original music across two stages, BYO alcohol, free camping and free activities for the kids, this is the ideal festival for the whole family at an affordable price.
defenceLife 37
QUEENSLAND Springfield
Out and about in the great South East
Located between Brisbane and Ipswich, Greater Springfield has become one of Australia’s fastest growing master-planned cities.
Visit Brisbane and surrounds and you’ll discover a region that’s filled with energy and endless things to do. Sophisticated and progressive, dynamic and diverse, the great South East delivers on all fronts. Visitors and locals alike delight in the very best in food, wine, arts, entertainment and major sporting events, all surrounded by a unique environment of relaxed sub-tropical flair. There’s exciting shopping, a buzzing night-time scene, and no end to the range of outdoor adventures on offer, such as sailing, surfing, hot-air ballooning and 4WD excursions. You’ll also find this region to be a hotbed of creative free thinking, with local artists, musicians, writers, jewellers and fashion designers all making their name on the international stage. At the same time, this is a place without pretension, with its feet planted firmly on the ground. And that’s exactly what so many people love about the Great South East. From the sun and sand drenched islands in the east, to its cool and crisp mountain rainforests in the west - and all the attractions of a vibrant, modern city in between - Brisbane and surrounds offers the best of both worlds. Take a drive through the Greater Brisbane countryside and you’ll discover mountains, valleys, lakes, historic hinterland towns and award-winning wineries all within easy reach. Take a liesurely country drive and discover the history of Queensland’s early settlers in Ipswich and Toowoomba. Leave the main highway and you’ll discover quaint country towns - Rosewood, whose name was founded on the dense rosewood forests surrounding the area; Grandchester, which earned its place in Queensland history when in 1865 the first section of railway built
in the colony was completed between Ipswich and Grandchester; and the town of Marburg which won the title of Friendliest Town in Queensland in 2008, and which boasts many historical old buildings including an antique centre and local museum. Head to the coasts, and you’ll be spoilt for choice. The beaches are stunning - from Coolangatta to Southport on the South Coast and Caloundra to Noosa on the Sunshine Coast - with a variety of shopping, restaurants, theme parks and markets to keep you occupied. Within 30 minutes beyond the bustling coastal strip the Hinterland is a change of pace where the variety of attractions allows visitors to be as active - hiking, horse riding, hot air ballooning & champagne breakfast, 4WD tours, hang gliding and abseiling - or idle - quaffing local wines, browsing handmade art and crafts, perusing market stalls, soaking up the natural scenery - as you like.
Proud to help care for the dogs of MWD & EDD - RAAF Amberley ...
booval vet hospital
12 South Station Road, Booval Ph: 3282 6722
pine mountain vet clinic 24 Fernvale Road, Brassall Ph: 3201 8862
karalee village vet clinic
Shop 17, Junction Rd, Karalee Ph: 3282 9009
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With development activity already surpassing $3.2 billion in the included areas of Springfield, Springfield Lakes and Brookwater, this new city is bringing together the very best in business, ICT, education, health, retail and entertainment to one central location. The current population of Greater Springfield is more than 20,000 with an estimated population of 100,000+ by 2030. Springfield is connected to Brisbane and the Ipswich CBD by the Centenary Motorway, and the soon to be completed Springfield Rail Line will enable passengers to commute to Brisbane, Ipswich or the Gold Coast with ease. At the heart of the city is Springfield Central Parklands, the perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle, featuring bike and walking trails, picnic spots, boardwalks, and kids play areas. Visit Orion Town Centre for great shopping, a wide selection of specialty stores, and plenty of spots to eat and relax. The Brookwater Gourmet markets held on the first and third Sunday of each month at Brookwater Golf Club is a great place to stock up on all your favourite foods. Education City, which includes USQ Springfield, Bremer TAFE, St Peters Lutheran College and a number of other providors, provides a community environment which has been specifically designed to meet the needs of students from Australia and around the world. Many Defence families have made their home in Springfield, with just a short and easy commute of just 20 minutes to RAAF Base Amberley.
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A comprehensive range of: • Mufflers • Canons • Extractors • Repairs • Towbars • Bullbars • Performance & Standard • Stainless Steel • 2 Year Nationwide Warranty • Cars, Bikes, Light Commercial, Buses & Trucks
Phone 3281 0444 Ipswich Muffler & Mechanical, 224 Brisbane Street, West Ipswich
A new career, new beginnings Sovereign Pocket is located just 10 minutes from RAAF Amberley and offers a modern, vibrant atmosphere. Set in beautiful natural surrounds with adventure playgrounds, wide streets and footpaths and plenty of open space, discover a brand new place made for brand new beginnings, today. • 10 minutes to the heart of Ipswich, universities, schools and hospital • 10 minutes to Orion Springfield Shopping Centre
$5,000^ discount for defence Force personnel House AND lAND from
$285,780*
• Easy access to the Centenary and Cunningham Highways
NEW VOGUE 139 By Hallmark Homes
• Carpet and tiles throughout • Alfresco entertainment area • Driveway allowance • Turf to the front yard • Fencing allowance
Sales and Information Centre 5 homes on display! 8 Sovereign Drive Deebing Heights, QLD 4305.
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Call our Stockland team today on 1800 170 192.
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stockland.com.au/sovereignpocket
Looking for a big backyard plus more? The latest land release at Augustine Heights offers large home sites ranging from 590m2 to 1195m2. Almost 70% of these lots are 800m2, plus! Surrounded by sprawling parklands and just minutes to schools, Brookwater Golf Course and Orion Shopping Village, there are so many pluses about living at Augustine Heights.
Sales and Information Centre Cnr Christopher St and Santa Monica Dr Augustine Heights, QLD 4300.
Call our Stockland team today on 07 3814 1944.
stockland.com.au/augustineheights ^The $5,000 discount is applicable to the land price only. Offer is available at Stockland Sovereign Pocket for current defence force members, proof of identity must be provided and defence personnel must consent to participate in a photo opportunity when land is purchased. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. * Prices subject to change. Home and land packages consist of land and a home which are sold separately. Stockland is responsible for the sale of the land only. A buyer wishing to purchase a home and land package will need to enter into a land contract with Stockland and a separate contract with the relevant builder, for the construction of the home. Images for illustrative purposes only.
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QUEENSLAND
Pool laws in Queensland
Ipswich Art Gallery Just 40 kilometres west of Brisbane, the Ipswich Art Gallery is located in the restored old town hall in the heart of Ipswich Central. The Gallery presents a program of changing exhibitions and heritage displays, special events, family activities, complimentary performances and art workshops. It is one of the most-visited regional art galleries in Australia. A unique feature of the Gallery is a dedicated Children’s Gallery, Australia’s first dedicated art gallery for children. It is a place where children can imagine, create and discover. The Children’s Gallery presents a program of changing exhibitions, activities and events. These exhibitions and programs are designed to reflect children’s interests and provide opportunities for children to make their own art works, discover new ideas, interact with their families and play.
Activities allow children to play, solve creative problems and investigate a variety of materials. The Children’s Gallery is a wheelchair and pram-friendly venue with large internal lifts. The gallery’s friendly volunteers are on hand to help you to find your way around, and to bring your visit alive. Guided group tours of both the permanent and temporary exhibitions are available. Visitors should allow an hour or two to really enjoy the range of permanent and visiting exhibits, and to allow time for children to interact with various displays in the Children’s Gallery Ipswich Art Gallery is located in the centre of Ipswich CBD, close to cafes and parks, and just a short walk from Ipswich Railway Station, bus stops and car parks. Entry to the permanent and long-term exhibits is free, with only a small fee charged for some of the temporary shows. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm daily. For more information about Ipswich Art Gallery go to their website at www. ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au. For information about tours and current exhibitions at the gallery phone 07 3810 7222.
All Queensland pools over 30cm in depth must be fenced. Under Queensland law, pool owners have to ensure their pool complies with the pool safety standard (2010) when they sell or lease their property. If the seller hasn’t provided a compliance certificate, the purchaser is required to get a current pool safety certificate within 90 days. The maximum penalty for non-compliance is $16,500. In brief, the laws call for: - Mandatory inspections by local governments for immersion incidents of children under five in swimming pools. These incidents will be reported by hospitals and the Queensland Ambulance Service, including voluntary reporting by doctors and nurses - Child resistant doors that form part of the pool barrier will need to be replaced with a fence - Wider application of pool safety laws to include indoor pools and pools associated with hotels, motels, caretaker residences, caravan parks, backpackers, hostels, mobile home parks and homestays.
Make a splash at Ipswich’s River Heart It’s the place to be when it’s hot, for kids and families right across the Ipswich region. River Heart Parklands on the Bremer River at Ipswich combines a water park, playground and shady forest park for all the family to enjoy. With predictions for a long, hot summer there’s no doubt that the multimillion dollar parklands will be a huge hit for summer, and beyond. With a zero depth water park and extensive play equipment, including a spider web style climbing frame and a 25 metre flying fox, the water park is a delight for kids and parents. “It looks fantastic and we’re really looking forward to seeing everyone out and about, enjoying everything this space has to offer,” Mayor Paul Pisasale said. “The new boardwalk is a boon to walkers, joggers, cyclists and others, and will allow people to view the Bremer River from a close vantage point that’s not been seen before.”
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Weathering the storm With the storm season upon us, it is a good time to think about property maintenance. Defence Housing Australia (DHA) provides emergency maintenance services for their properties that you can access through a 24-hour, seven day hotline. This service is available for repairs that could affect the immediate health or safety of you and your family, or the security of the property. In the event of a natural disaster, such as a storm or cyclone, the State Emergency Service should be your first point-of-call if your property is damaged, or your family is at risk. DHA will provide support and assistance once the emergency has passed. DHA phone: 139 DHA (139 342) Website: http://www.dha.gov.au
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Life IPSWICH
MAGAZINE
Ipswich’s own magazine! Ipswich Life is Ipswich’s ONLY truly local magazine ... produced, printed, distributed and READ locally! If you want to know what’s happening in Ipswich ... Ipswich Life is the magazine for you! Motoring, fashion, giveaways, movie and book reviews ... Ipswich Life has something for everyone! Distributed extensively throughout Ipswich, Springfield and Amberley, with letterbox delivery to over 30,000 homes and workplaces every fortnight
... your advertisement in Ipswich Life will be noticed!
Life
Life
Life
IPSWICH
IPSWICH
IPSWICH
ISSUE 15 31/07/13 I IPSWICH’S OWN MAGAZINE
ISSUE 1 30/01/13
I
IPSWICH’S OWN MAGAZINE
ISSUE 14 17/07/13 I IPSWICH’S OWN MAGAZINE
Onboard a US Navy Warship US AND AUS FORCES TRAIN FOR COMBAT
SPECIAL FEATURES
WELCOME DEFENCE FAMILIES DEFENCE NEWS CAR TORQUE
NRL AllStars
INSIDE
* TAX & FINANCE * DEFENCE NEWS * QUEENS PARK 150TH * TASMAN SABER EXERCISE
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advertise: 07 3282 9019 email: info@strikepublications.com.au call in: Tower Central Ipswich, 114 Brisbane St Ipswich
Produced by Strike Publications Pty Ltd, PO Box 124 Ipswich 4305
Education across Queensland Each state government within Australia manages the school system within their state. This means that they provide funds and regulation for their schools. Both public schools and private schools exist in each state. The curriculum taught in each state or school may vary but the learning areas are the same in all. Each state has a Vocational Education and Training (VET) or Technical and Further Education (TAFE) system. VET prepares people for work in a career that does not need a university degree. Each state manages their system and meets at a national level to coordinate their effort. VET is transferable between all states. Typically, a VET/TAFE course takes two years of study. The Federal government provides funding for universities in all the states but each is independent in its governance. Typically, a university course takes three or four years of study.
Definition of higher education In Australia, the term ‘higher education’ generally refers to education at degree level and above. In the Australian Qualifications Framework, higher education courses are those leading to the award of associate degree, bachelor’s degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, master’s degree or doctoral degree. Some courses leading to the award of a diploma or advanced diploma may also be accredited as higher education. Almost all higher education in Australia is offered by universities. A small but growing number of non-university providers and overseas institutions also offer accredited higher education courses.
Your Choice?
Faith
Lutheran College
We are your choice for secondary education in the Lockyer Valley with college buses servicing the Valley, Brassell and Esk.
www.faithlc.qld.edu.au
Vocational education and training Vocational education and training (VET) provides skills and knowledge for work through a national training system. The system consists of a network of all State and Territory Governments, the Australian Government, along with industry and training providers that work together to provide nationally consistent training across Australia. VET in schools allows young people to remain enrolled at school while completing education and training programs delivered by other learning providers in the community, such as TAFE and other Registered Training Organisations.
Enrolment opportunities now available!
5 Faith Avenue PLAINLAND QLD 4341 Phone: 07 5466 9900 Fax: 07 5466 9911 Email: faith@faithlc.qld.edu.au
Westside Christian College • CO-EDUCATIONAL • PRE-PREP – YEAR 12 College buses service these areas & Ipswich
Achievement • Belonging • Care •
Westside Christian College
Forest Lake Springfield Springfield Lakes
Camira
Goodna
Bellbird Park
• New State of the Art Science Labs • Junior Primary Campus • Film, TV, New Media & Technology Facilities • OSH Care Call Admissions Office on (07) 3437 9000 • CALL US TODAY!
Redbank Plains Collingwood Park
Westside Christian College, 65 Stuart Street, Goodna www.wcc.qld.edu.au
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QUEENSLAND Qld State schools Education Queensland delivers high-quality and accessible public education to around 70 per cent of all Queensland school students through the state schooling system. The Department is responsible for almost 1300 schools staffed by more than 36,000 teachers and attended by almost 480,000 students. All state schools are coeducational. The school year usually runs from late January to mid December. It is divided into two semesters with two terms in each, and vacation breaks for Easter, winter, spring and summer. Parents are free to send their children to the school of their choice, depending on available places. Most schools hold classes from 9 am to 3 pm Monday to Friday, except for public and school holidays and student-free days.
Preparatory Year Children are able to attend a non-compulsory, full-time Preparatory year of schooling. Children must be aged five by 30 June in the year they enrol.
Primary Children must be aged six by 30 June in the year they enrol in Year 1 in Queensland. Under special circumstances, children may be enrolled at a younger age. For a child entering Year 1, schools require proof of the child’s date of birth, such as a birth certificate, passport or visa.
Secondary Students are eligible to enter the first year of Queensland secondary schooling, Year 8, after completing seven years of primary education. This is changing, with a gradual transition to all Year 7 students commencing secondary school by 2015.
ROSEWOOD STATE HIGH SCHOOL “THOSE WHO CARE WIN”
OUR VISION “is to develop Responsible Citzens with Realized Potential” WE OFFER • Academic/Vocational offerings • Positive/supportive learning environment • High level behaviour expectations • A pathway for anyone
Lanefield Road, Rosewood enquires 07 5461 900 www.rosewoodshs.eq.edu.au
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What is transition? Transition is a term to describe movement through the different stages in your child’s education. This includes moving from home to early childhood education, from Pre-primary to Year 1 (“big school!”), from primary school to secondary school and finally from school onto further study, work or training. There are other recognised periods of transition including moving from one school to another or moving between the years of secondary school such as from Yr 10 to Yr 11. All of these periods of transition involve a certain level of emotional and practical adjustment for you, your child and your family and may result in your child experiencing some uncertainty and anxiety. Depending on the transition, your child may have to deal with issues such as separation from you or siblings (when they start school for the first time), adjust to learning in a structured environment (when they start Year 1) and learning to adjust to a number of different teachers (when they go to secondary school). The teaching staff at your school will work with you to make these transitions as easy on your child as possible. Being prepared yourself will make the transition easier on your child. Know the transport options, have uniforms organised and get stationery and books early so that you have time to label everything and your child can get comfortable with any new equipment. Get your child comfortable with the new school environment. Their school may have organised an orientation program, but if they haven’t, make an appointment with the school for you and your child to visit. Make sure your child knows where they can store their belongings, eat their lunch and where the toilets are. Talk to your child about bullying, peer pressure, and how to handle conflict. Understanding your child’s strengths and weaknesses can help your child choose subjects well suited to their abilities. Part of this understanding will be being aware that your child may experience peer pressure, fear of failure or be very keen to follow a dream. Try to allow your child to become part of the final decision.
Celebrating 150 Years of Empowering Young Women
St Mary’s is a progressive Catholic Secondary College for young women that offers • • • • • •
Education in the Mercy tradition since 1863 A caring and supportive environment A challenging academic programme Pathways for vocational education A wide range of co-curricular activities Integration of technology across the curriculum
1 8 6 3 – 2 01 3
Enrolment packages for 2015 now available. St Mary’s College, Mary Street, Ipswich
t) 07 3432 5444 w) www.stmarys.qld.edu.au e) admincentre@stmarys.qld.edu.au
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QUEENSLAND
Getting set for Prep
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9 Labour Day
Monday October 6
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
January 28 to April 4 (10 weeks)
Term 2
April 22 to June 27 (10 weeks)
Term 3
July 14 to September 19 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 7 to December 12 (10 weeks)
Queensland’s Preparatory Year gives all young Queenslanders the very best start to school by helping them make a smooth transition to Year 1 and sets them on the path to lifelong learning. Children must be aged five by 30 June in the year they enrol for Prep. Parents can enrol their child in the Preparatory Year by contacting the school directly. Most children will start Prep in the year they become eligible, however parents who are concerned their child is not ready to start Prep at that time can choose to start their child a year later - the year they
TODAY’S LEARNERS — TOMORROW’S LEADERS Established for more than ten years, St Augustine’s College has continued to provide inclusive, quality Catholic education for children and young people from ages 4 to 18 years. We pride ourselves in: • Focusing on Thinking and Learning • Adopting contemporary Australian Curriculum • Instilling core Values of Community, Love and Truth • Genuine partnerships with families • Staff who are passionate about learning We provide numerous co-curricular opportunities, including: • Performing Arts • Sport • Debating • Outdoor Education • Social Justice • Student Leadership We accommodate for: • VET and Pathways opportunities • 1:1 Laptop Program • Long Day Care, Outside School Hours Care and Vacation Care on-site Enquire now and be part of St Augustine’s community. Enrolments for certain year levels are still being accepted for 2014. Enrolments for Year 7 2015 are now open. St Augustine’s Drive, Augustine Heights, Queensland 4300 PO Box 4047, Springfield QLD 4300 • P: (07) 3814 8300 • F: (07) 3814 8301 E: psspringfield@bne.catholic.edu.au W: www.stac.qld.edu.au
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become of compulsory school age (6 years and 6 months). Prep is offered full-time and children attend from Monday to Friday during normal school hours, generally from 9 am to 3 pm. The Preparatory Year will provide the foundation your child needs to succeed at school by developing a positive approach to
learning, independence and confidence, thinking and problem-solving skills, language skills, early literacy and numeracy, physical abilities, including gross and fine motor skills. Prep is integrated fully into the rest of the school, and classrooms and other facilities are located on the same grounds as the primary school. This allows children to feel part of the broader school community and will help with their transition to Year 1. In some schools, Prep children may be included in composite classes with other early years students. Prep classrooms generally consist of an open space for group and individual activities with a carpeted area for storytelling and singing. Prep classes will comprise up to 25 students. Your child may need to wear a school uniform, but this is up to individual schools.
United through Spirit. Strengthened by Diversity.
St Peter Claver College Claver Building a School for Students Now and in the Future
What will your child do in Prep? Prep teachers in state schools and most non-state schools will use the Early Years Curriculum Guidelines developed by the Queensland Studies Authority. The guidelines are based on the play and inquiry based approach to learning. A key feature of Prep is that it makes connections between children’s prior experiences at home, kindy or childcare and what they do at school. In Prep your child will be actively involved in learning and will have opportunities to learn in many different ways - for example through investigation and play. Children are encouraged to develop independence and personal organisational skills. Working with other children and adults is also an important life skill that is part of the Prep program. Children will be: • using blocks and manipulative equipment and creating collages to develop early mathematical concepts and skills • drawing and painting to encourage oral language, reading and writing skills • initiating and participating in dramatic play to build an understanding of the world around them • playing and investigating independently, in pairs, small groups and as a whole class • participating in outdoor activities • participating in music and language experiences.
• In 2014 the College will begin operating its $1.5m Trade Training Centre in Construction. • A $65K capital enhancement in Hospitality and Cooking will offer more industry experience for students. • Under construction and due for completion at the end of the year is a $1m Visual Arts Centre • In readiness for Year 7 in 2015 is the construction of a $2.8m Middle School Learning Centre. Claver is a place where academic excellence is valued and students are encouraged to participate in a renowned sporting and extra-curricular program.
Our motto is CONCERN, LOVE, JUSTCE. Come and experience the Claver heart
Enrolling now for 2015 onwards (Year 7 commence in 2015)
St Peter Claver College 10 Old Ipswich Road, Riverview, Qld 4303 Enrolment Enquiries Direct Telephone: 3810 5907 Telephone: 3810 5900 Fax: 3282 3190 Email: sriverview@bne.catholic.edu.au Website: www.spcc.qld.edu.au
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QUEENSLAND
Early Phase of Learning IMMACULATE HEART CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL • • • • • • • • • •
Spacious grounds Friendly children Upgraded facilities Computers and technology Professional and approachable staff Specialist music and P.E. teachers Year 7 leadership opportunities Bi-annual trip to Canberra for years 5/6/7 Outside School Hours Care Choral Eisteddfods and Dance Fever
Immaculate Heart
Catholic Primary School
24 Old Toowoomba Road, One Mile Qld 4305 Ph 07 3812 1077
Web www.immac-heart.qld.edu.au
The Early Phase of Learning, Prep to Year 3, introduces children to the world of formal education. Education Queensland aims to provide positive experiences that engage young minds and promote positive dispositions to lifelong learning. Research has shown a positive outlook helps to maximise early learning and development. State primary schools offer a full-time, non-compulsory Preparatory Year of education before Year 1. Children must turn five by 30 June in the year they begin the Preparatory Year. The Preparatory Year is not compulsory. Parents may choose to keep their children at home or to send them to an alternative early childhood education and care service. Children must be six by 30 June in the year they enrol in Year 1. Enrolment inquiries should be made directly to your local school.
Literacy and Numeracy
Education Queensland is committed to ensuring that all students develop a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy in the early years as a basis for progress in all future learning. As they progress through schooling, students should develop effective literacy and numeracy skills to support successful participation in the post-school years in training, work, or further study. This depends upon, but is not limited to, high levels of proficiency in English and Mathematics. In order to ensure that all learners reach their potential in literacy and numeracy, schools have programs to monitor the performance of those at risk of falling behind and to provide targeted support. All students are monitored throughout Years 1 to 3 and those not making adequate progress by the middle of Year 2 receive additional classroom support.
The Springfield Anglican College Be confident in the knowledge that ‘Their Future’ is safe in our hands. Our students and staff strive towards excellence inside and outside the classroom. We offer a strong academic, extra-curricular and pastoral care programmes in an encouraging, safe and dynamic learning environment. Enrolling Now for 2014! Call our Registrar, Mrs Bonita Marshall on 3818 5777 to arrange a tour of our Campuses with the Head of College or Head of Primary.
Their Future. www.tsac.qld.edu.au Co-educational Kindergarten to Year 12 Anglican College
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Summer Schools Summer Schools are specifically designed for Years 5, 6 & 7 students who have been identified through NAPLAN (National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy) as requiring additional help in the areas of literacy and numeracy. Summer Schools do not replace the existing support that your child is receiving at their school. Rather, this is an opportunity for your child to receive additional assistance in an enjoyable learning environment. At Summer Schools, students are taught to understand the relationship between the language of chance and probability, and to justify their decision-making processes by using this knowledge. Parents are encouraged to support their children’s learning. There are many things you can do to help your child practice their reading skills including reading a range of texts, discussing how language is used, asking your child to describe people, places or objects, and engaging in word building exercises. “I have never seen my daughter so excited about doing school work. All she does is talk about what she has learned each day. Thank you for this opportunity.” - Summer Schools parent feedback. “Summer Schools was great. I hope I get to go again next time.” - student feedbank.
Middle Phase of Learning Years 4 to 9 spans traditional primary and secondary schooling and are a time of great physical, social, emotional and intellectual change for young people.
Students in the Middle Phase of Learning have distinctive and diverse needs which stem from the very significant developmental changes in this period, as well as from a broad range of individual students’ life circumstances, interests, skills and talents. The Middle Phase of Learning typically occurs across Years 4-9 and falls into two distinct stages. The first stage involves transition from the early foundational years. Students need to consolidate the foundations of literacy and numeracy that they gained in the early phase of learning. For many students this is a time of expanding curiosity and eager exploration of a broader range of learning experiences. For others, the challenges are daunting, their interest wanes and progress slows. The second stage is characterised by the demands of intense physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of early adolescence. There is considerable diversity in how and when students move through this WMAC0657_DefenceLife_Layout 1 30/09/13 12:16 PM and Page stage in 1 the impact on their attitude to and success in learning.
West Moreton Anglican College Est 1994
Ipswich Queensland
Increasing literacy and numeracy skills and knowledge are the essential ingredients for learning in every subject and for effective communication and participation in adult life. It is essential to maintain students’ interest and provide opportunities for them to “catch up” and make fresh starts when progress slows if they are to be ready for the senior phase of learning. Students in the Middle Phase of Learning are going through an unmatched period of cognitive, physical, social and emotional change and growth. They begin to think more broadly about issues beyond the home and family, and they want to engage in authentic, meaningful learning. Leadership, effective teaching and flexible and responsive approaches help ensure young people stay enthusiastic and engaged in learning. To assist this, class sizes have been reduced in Years 4 to 10 from 30 to 28 students, giving Queensland the smallest class size targets in the middle years of schooling.
West Moreton Anglican College is a co-educational school for Prep to Year 12 students, set on 38 hectares just Years of Individual Excellence minutes from Ipswich and the Amberley RAAF Base. The College offers: • Defence Families Introduction Events • Respect and Responsibility Behavioural Program • Buddy system for new students • Onsite after hours care • School bus from Amberley RAAF Base to WestMAC
Interested in joining forces with WestMAC? Please call (07) 3813 4555 for our prospectus.
West Moreton Anglican College Keswick Road, Karrabin, Ipswich Queenland
www.wmac.com.au
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QUEENSLAND Queensland Core Skills Test Each year the Queensland Studies Authority conducts a common statewide test designed for Year 12 students.
Year 10: SET-ting the scene for Senior A Senior Education and Training Plan (SET Plan) helps students structure their learning around their abilities, interests and ambitions. As part of the planning process, students think about their future, consider their abilities and investigate their options for careers and further education. Year 10 is an important juncture in a young person ‘s life. As young people enter the senior phase of learning they will experience new types of learning and take on more responsibility for their learning. They will also have opportunities to think about future careers, begin to set goals, and undertake planning to realise their ambitions. SET Planning is a formal process for young people (usually in Year 10) to develop a personal plan of action that guides them in their senior phase of learning, with help from their school/learning provider and parents. The student, their parents or carers, and the school meet to develop the SET Plan, which details what, where and how a student will
study during their senior phase of learning (usually Years 11 and 12). The plan is finalised by the end of Year 10. The process for creating SET Plans helps young people learn about themselves, set realistic goals and explore how to achieve those goals. It is a great way to help young people take responsibility for their future. SET Plans help young people establish the necessary path to achieve their career goals by working towards a Queensland Certificate of Education (or Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement), Certificate III or IV vocational qualification and/or a viable employment option.
The QCS Test contributes information for the calculation of Overall Positions (OPs) and Field Positions (FPs), which are used to rank students for tertiary entrance. While the QCS test is not compulsory, those Year 12 students who are eligible for a Tertiary Entrance Statement must sit the test. A student’s individual QCS test result is not used on its own in the calculation of their OP - instead, group results are used as part of the statistical scaling processes. A student’s individual result on the QCS Test is reported on the student’s Senior Statement or Statement of Results. The QCS Test is drawn from the Common Curriculum Elements (CCEs), a set of generic skills identified in the Queensland senior curriculum that students work with across their subjects. The test assumes that candidates have basic levels of general knowledge and vocabulary and a Year 10 knowledge of mathematical operations. The Test consists of 4 papers - a Writing Task (of 600 words), a Short Response paper and two Multiple Choice papers. The results achieved for each of the 4 test papers are combined into one grade, ranging from A to E. Those sitting the test are asked to respond to a variety of stimulus materials, such as prose passages, poetry, graphs, tables, maps, mathematical and scientific data, cartoons and artistic works. Year 12 students who are eligible for an OP must sit the test. Year 12 students who are ineligible for an OP may choose to sit the test.
Ipswich State High School Years 7 to 12 Enrol Now for 2014/2015 Ipswich State High School seeks to develop successful citizens by helping each student to identify their affinities and passions. We encourage their transition to adulthood by developing their knowledge and values, enabling them to make wise and just choices, creating a better future for all. The school specialises in Japanese Language Education and has extensive Vocational Education and Training and sports programs, using purpose built facilities on-site and in the Ipswich CBD.
www.ipswichshs.eq.edu.au For more information phone:
3813 4488
or call into the school office at: Hunter Street, BRASSALL
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Independent Public Schools The Queensland Government is committed to giving state schools greater autonomy in decision making, cutting red tape and removing layers of management to improve outcomes for students. Fifty-four schools have been selected to become Independent Public Schools in 2014. These schools join the 26 schools that became Queensland’s first Independent Public Schools in 2013. There is a further opportunity for 120 schools to become Independent Public Schools over a four year period from 2013 to 2016.
What does it mean to be an Independent Public School?
The Government will provide a one-off $50,000 grant to assist schools transition to becoming an Independent Public School and to establish their school council. A further $50,000 in funding each year is also available.
The Independent Public Schools initiative recognises the best decision-making often occurs at a local level through direct response to local community needs and aspirations. What will it mean for students? By becoming an Independent Public School, Independent Public Schools will have greater Queensland principals, teachers, parents and freedom to shape their own strategic direction local communities have greater control and and make decisions which will directly benefit ownership of their schools. their students. The Independent Public School initiative will They will have the ability to work directly provide opportunities for: with local businesses, industry and community • enhanced local governance organisations. • advancing innovation This new way of working could lead to • locally-tailored workforce unique and innovative partnerships and • financial flexibility sponsorships, providing extra supporteefor d cc • building for the future students, schools and the local community. Su • public accountability, transparency Schools also have greater flexibility to tailor eve Metalic Gold 872 chi Asuit and performance. the curriculum to directly the needs of r e ov Queensland Independent Public Schools will their students. Disc continue to remain part of the state’s strong This tailor-made approach will mean students public schooling system. may benefit from opportunities such as They will have access to the same support as International Baccalaureate, extracurricular State CollegeofP-12 other Queensland state schools and maintain and gateway programs or access to centres the same core values. excellence. •
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Woodcrest
Looking for a quality local school?
Consider the Woodcrest State College Advantage:
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StateState College P-12 P-12 College
• Seamless Prep to Year 12 Graduation • Established reputation for quality education in the Springfield community since 1998 • Resource rich setting with laptop and wireless internet technologies, gymnasiums, laboratories, playing fields, performing and practical arts classrooms ed cce Su ed • Clear vision and values that commit us to the best outcomes for each student e ev cce PMS 1375 chi Su A • Academic Challenge and Enrichment (ACE) classes for high achieving students e er iev cov PMS 1235 Dis Ach • Sports Excellence in AFL, Basketball, Netball and Volleyball r e cov Dis • On site Kindergarten and Trade Training Centre (opening 2014) •
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Woodcrest
State College P-12
Woodcrest
State College P-12
Want to know more? t: 07 32802444
w: www.woodcrestsc.eq.edu.au e: office@woodcrestsc.eq.edu.au
PMS 1235
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QUEENSLAND HOT SPOTS The Empire Theatre
Living and working in Toowoomba
Heritage listed, Toowoomba’s Empire Theatre boasts the latest purposebuilt facilities as well as retaining the grandeur and superb acoustics of the original theatre built in 1911. It is the largest performing arts theatre in regional Australia and has received commendation from visitors, patrons and performers alike. The architecture retains original existing elements from 1911 and complements them with modern seating for 1567 people. With a varied program from rock to classical, ballet to comedy, the Empire Theatre has something for everyone.
Picnic Point
The Toowoomba Regional Council area is situated on the Great Dividing Range, strategically located at the junction of the Warrego, New England and Gore Highways. With a diverse economy, and in close proximity to Brisbane and the Sunshine and Gold Coasts, it offers the best of urban and rural environments, enjoying four distinct seasons. Daily maximum temperatures in Toowoomba average 27 degrees in summer and 16 degrees in winter. Covering almost 13,000 square kilometres, the Toowoomba Regional Council area offers a diverse range of lifestyle choices for its 158,000 residents, from major decisions like choosing your home site or which school your children will attend to recreational decisions such a choosing an entertainment venue or the style of restaurant that satisfies your culinary mood. Inner city, suburban, country town, village or rural addresses ensure a range of options when considering your next residential environment. Irrespective of where you decide to call home, you will be only a short drive away from first class shopping, medical, educational, cultural, entertainment and recreation facilities expected of a modern, progressive region. Toowoomba City boasts three major hospitals while several smaller hospitals are located across the area. The Council operates the magnificent Empire Theatre which hosts national and international acts, three art galleries, 11 libraries, and these facilities combined with several privatelyowned art galleries, give residents plenty of cultural and learning opportunities. Nine golf courses, numerous swimming pools, rugby league, rugby union, Aussie rules, soccer, cricket, softball, netball, basketball playing fields and stadiums cater for sportsminded residents and visitors; from eight-yearolds to eighty-year-olds. For less strenuous recreation activities, three large dams and numerous creeks meet the needs of keen anglers and boaties. For those who just want to enjoy a lazy picnic with family
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and friends or bushwalking at a leisurely pace, any one of 409 public and bushland parks across the region are ideal for more passive recreation activities. Besides the many choices of facilities and services, adding to Toowoomba’s enviable lifestyle is a full calendar of major and community events. The Oakey Sprints, Millmerran Camp Oven Festival, Easterfest, High Country Fine Food and Arts Festival and Shakespeare in the Park are popular with locals and attract many visitors to the region. Of course, the most famous event is the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers; Australia’s longest running floral festival. The Toowoomba region is home to two military bases. Borneo Barracks at Cabarlah, 20 kilometres north of Toowoomba, has been a part of the local landscape for over half a century. It is home to 7th Signals Regiment and the Electronic Warfare Wing of the Defence Force School of Signals. The Army Aviation Centre is located at Oakey, 30 kilometres west of Toowoomba. Oakey is home to the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre, the School of Army Aviation and the Army Helicopter School. Adjacent to the base is the excellent Museum of Army Aviation which is open to the public and hosts an annual fly-in. Whether you are posted to Borneo Barracks or Oakey, you will appreciate the choice of lifestyles, facilities and services available in the Toowoomba region.
Picnic Point is the best place to appreciate Toowoomba’s location on the top of the Great Dividing Range. Consisting of beautifully landscaped parkland with playgrounds, barbecue and picnic facilities and views over the Lockyer Valley, Picnic Point is a great spot for families and couples. There is ample parking, picnic benches, a cafe and restaurant, and various walking tracks.
Japanese Gardens
One of the most beautiful parks in Toowoomba is the university’s Japanese Garden - Australia’s largest traditionally designed Japanese stroll garden. Opened in 1989, it comprises 3km of paths, 230 species of Japanese and Australian native trees and plants, and beautifully landscaped lawns. About 2500 azaleas are planted as a representation of hillsides in Japan where azaleas grow wild. The red bridges, the Central Lake, a waterfall and ducks complement this stunning garden.
Cobb & Co Museum
Part of the Queensland Museum, the Cobb & Co Museum is home to the National Carriage Collection which features nearly 50 horse-drawn vehicles and galleries noting the natural and cultural history of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs. From blacksmithing and silversmithing to leadlighting and millinery, there is much to see at the museum.
The spectacular Scenic Rim
EVENTS Easter Vintage Festival 19 - 21 April 2014
Highfields Pioneer Village is celebrating its annual Vintage Festival on Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The theme of this year’s festival is ‘Let’s go back to the Olden Days’. Come and experience rural life in the Australian Pioneer days! Milk a cow, learn how to crack a whip or be a blacksmith. Enjoy billy tea and damper made on authentic camp ovens. Don’t miss the spectacular Grand Parade and baby animals in the nursery. Whether you love history, you’re a vintage machinery buff or you are just looking for great entertainment you will have a wonderful time at the Easter Vintage Festival.
Ride the Range 4 May 2014
Ride the Range starts as the sun is rising over our Great Dividing Range. Cyclists start the challenge at Picnic Point Toowoomba. The descent offers stunning views over the countryside as you cycle down along Flagstone Creek Road. Make the most of the quiet roads and view the spectacular patchwork of the Lockyer valley before the non-relenting challenge of the ascent back to Picnic Point in Toowoomba.
Carnival of Flowers 19 - 28 September 2014
The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers grows bigger, brighter and more colourful each year. It is the longest running floral event of its kind in Australia as the premiere celebration of flowers, food, wine, culture, entertainment and all things spring! A vibrant floral street parade, spectacular public and private exhibition gardens, fabulous food, wondrous wine and exceptional entertainment, this 10-day event appeals to all age groups and reinforces Toowoomba’s reputation of ‘The Garden City’.
Shakespeare in the Park October 2014 (dates TBC)
Shakespeare Alfresco! Experience the magic of live performance in the great outdoors at the University of Southern Queensland’s annual Shakespeare in the Park Festival. Attracting in excess of 40,000 theatre goers since its inception in 2004, the Festival continues to grow each year. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and settle in for a magical night as you’ve not seen Shakespeare before.
The Scenic Rim is an arc of spectacular mountains lying from south of Beaudesert, around to the area south west of Ipswich, in South East Queensland. It is situated within Australia’s Green Cauldron which stretches from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast and west towards the Great Dividing Range. The sheer size of the caldera is breathtaking and shelters a huge diversity of rare flora and fauna, and subtropical rainforests. This natural wonderland is a direct link back to the days of the Gondwana Land super continent. Rainforest, platypuses, bowerbirds, echidnas, luminescent crayfish, glowworms, kites and owls are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the nature-based experiences here. Heading down off the range, through winding roads and farmland, the villages of the Scenic Rim reveal themselves shyly. Food and wine, romantic escapes, camping, bushwalking, country pubs, art, history and adventures are all here tied together by the landscape and the beautiful towns and villages dotted throughout. The Boonah District and surrounds is known as the Heart of the Scenic Rim. A pleasant hour’s drive from Brisbane, and a 90 minute drive from the Gold Coast, the townships of Boonah and nearby Kalbar and Harrisville are easily accessible. They have a rich German history which is reflected in many sites around the area.
OUR TOOWOOMBA REGION City Feel with Country Appeal
• • • • • • •
Rural lifestyles on the doorstep of Borneo Barracks and Oakey military bases Superb art galleries and world class Empire Theatre Excellent tertiary education institutions First class day and boarding schools Diverse range of fine dining and local winery choices Full calendar of sporting events and festivals 409 public and bushland parks providing unlimited recreation choices
The Toowoomba region is all about lifestyle choices and opportunities. Together they have a great feel…..and even greater appeal.
For information on our region’s many attractions contact the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre on 07 4639 3797 or freecall 1800 331 155
TRC/SEC_2013_DefenceMag
The Toowoomba region offers the best of both worlds – the facilities of a modern, dynamic city or the laidback pace of a rural lifestyle. The choice is yours.
For business advice contact council’s Economic Development Branch on 07 4688 6880 or email: business@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au
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QUEENSLAND Queensland Certificate of Education The QCE is Queensland’s senior school qualification, which is awarded to eligible students usually at the end of Year 12. Every young Queenslander must be registered with the Queensland Studies Authority during the year before the young person’s compulsory participation phase begins. Generally, schools will register young people in Year 10.
Senior Phase of Learning The Queensland education and training system aims to set the highest standards of excellence and academic rigour by engaging young people with a challenging and diverse curriculum. In Queensland it is compulsory for young people to stay at school until they finish Year 10 or turn 16, whichever comes first. Young people are then required to participate in education and training for: • a further two years, or • until they gain a Queensland Certificate of Education, or • until they gain a Certificate III vocational qualification, or • until they turn 17. The Senior Phase of Learning provides young people with more options and flexibility for completing Years 11 and 12, or their equivalent. Schools and TAFEs are offering young people more choice and greater flexibility in the senior phase of learning. Students can choose from vocationallybased subjects and courses, traineeships and apprenticeships, and university subjects.
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Year 10 students throughout the state prepare Senior Education and Training (SET) Plans with the help of teachers and parents. These plans map out a young person’s career and education goals and the learning options available to them in the senior phase of learning. Students also have a learning account created for them with the Queensland Studies Authority. Young people are able to access their own learning accounts over the internet to check their progress. A Youth Support Coordinator program has been established across Queensland to assist young people. These 113 coordinators work with schools, TAFEs and the community to coordinate services to help young people resolve personal and family issues during the senior phase.
When a student is registered, the QSA opens a learning account for them. The learning account records details of learning and results of any completed studies. Students are able to access their learning account through the Student Connect website. The QCE offers flexibility in what is learnt, as well as where and when learning occurs. Students have a wide range of learning options; these can include senior school subjects, vocational education and training, workplace and community learning, as well as university subjects undertaken while at school. Most students are awarded a QCE at the end of Year 12. Students who do not meet the QCE requirements at the end of Year 12 can continue to work towards their certificate - their learning account remains open, regardless of their age (however, credits expire after 9 years). The QSA will award a QCE in the following July or December, once a person becomes eligible. All students who finish Year 12 receive a transcript of their learning account in the form of a Senior Statement, which is issued in December. After finishing Year 12, students who become eligible for the award of a QCE will receive a Statement of Results. A Statement of Results is a cumulative transcript of their learning account. These will be issued every July and December.
Be safe at Schoolies Safer ‘Schoolies’ activities takes place usually in the last week of November. Access is granted only to graduating Year 12 or TAFE equivalent students on proof of a valid Year 12 student photo ID. You must register to access the free activities on offer. Be safe at schoolies. Remember to watch your mates. It’s important that you stay with your friends at all times, tell others what you are doing, and don’t walk home alone. Most importantly, make sure your parents know where you are staying, who you are staying with, and how you are getting to schoolies and home again.
Beyond School In Australia, higher education is the sector that offers university-level education, that is, at degree level and above. The Commonwealth, state and territory governments share responsibility for the sector. Higher education courses are those leading to the award of an associate degree, bachelors degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma, masters degree or doctoral degree. Some courses leading to the award of a diploma or advanced diploma may also be accredited as higher education courses. School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships provide a pathway for students to successfully transition from school to work.
The apprenticeships and traineeships aim to provide students with an increased ability to perform in the workplace, leading to increased career choices and opportunities to transition from school to full-time apprenticeships, employment or further education and training. The Vocational Education in Schools (VETiS) Program gives students the opportunity to try a particular profession while still at school. By participating in this program they learn about the skills and requirements of a particular job at school or through a local registered training provider, and can complete a number of work placements during the year.
There are so many reasons to enrol at Catholic | Coeducational | Vibrant Community | Years 7 - 12 Day & Boarding | All inclusive fees | Extensive Curriculum 38 hectares of land | Vocational Opportunities | and much more!
www.downlands.qld.edu.au
Faith
Have
Fairholme offers high quality contemporary educational experiences
in her future
within a caring Christian community. FAIRHOLME JUNIOR | Kindy – Year 6 FAIRHOLME MIDDLE SCHOOL | Years 7 – 9 FAIRHOLME SENIOR SCHOOL | Years 10 – 12 Boarding from Year 6 – Year 12
Fairholme Proudly a College of the Presbyterian Church of Queensland
College TOOWOOMBA
www.fairholme.qld.edu.au T 07 4688 4688 E enrol@fairholme.qld.edu.au
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QUEENSLAND
Living and working far north Queensland Townsville
Townsville is the largest city in North Queensland and is one of the fastest growing cities in the state, with a population exceeding 170,000. Located roughly halfway between Brisbane and the tip of Cape York, Townsville is nestled on the shores of Cleveland Bay, alongside the Great Barrier Reef. The majority of suburbs in Townsville are an ideal location to live, from the family suburbs of Kirwan and Annandale to apartment style living in the cosmopolitan city centre. The housing styles range from traditional Queenslanders to contemporary rendered lowset homes. Distance from the City centre to Lavarack Barracks is approximately 9.5km and to the RAAF Base it is approximately 5km. Townsville has excellent facilities for almost every sport, and boasts three national sporting teams: The Townsville Crocodiles (mens basketball); The Fire (womens basketball) and; The North Queensland Cowboys (rugby league).
The latest sporting addition is the V8 Supercars, held over an action-packed weekend in July. The Castle Hill ‘goat track’ is a favourite of the local fitness nuts; on a daily basis you will see locals conquering the challenge of ‘the hill’. Cluden Race Course is home to the famous Townsville Cup, Ladies Day and the Amateurs Cup. Touch football, beach volleyball and indoor sports are also readily available.
Schools Townsville has 18 high schools and 41 primary schools and offers tertiary education options through the Barrier Reef Institutes of TAFE and James Cook University. Townsville is also home to the Australian Technical College North Queensland which provides academic courses, business studies and trade training.
The Strand
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Cairns is located in Far North Queensland, 350km north of Townsville. The Cairns region covers more than 1750km2 and includes several major national parks as well as the state’s highest mountain peak - Mt Bartle Frere. Cairns is located right on the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef. The region boasts a tropical climate with two main seasons – the wet and the dry. Cairns is often used as a base for trips to the far north including the Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation and Cooktown. Cairns is an ideal location to live. There are many suburbs located at the foot of the rainforest overlooking stunning beaches or close to the heart of the city. HMAS Cairns is located 5km from the City centre, and the 51st Battalion is located 10km from the City centre. Cairns offers a large range of sport and recreation activities. There is something to suit all ages, genders and abilities, including soccer, tennis, touch football, cricket, beach volleyball, diving, snorkelling, bush walking and more.
Schools Cairns has both public and private schools for all levels. In Queensland, children under six years of age attend preschool, children from six years onwards attend primary school (years 1-7) and children 12 years and over attend high school (years 8 - 12). Cairns also has a TAFE and is home to James Cook University.
Billabong Sanctuary
HOT SPOTS Townsville’s Strand is without a doubt a must do whilst visiting north QLD. The Strand is situated along the shore line and has magnificent views of the Port of Townsville and Magnetic Island, as well as views stretching all the way out to Cape Cleveland. The Strand incorporates a jetty, recreational park, restaurants, cafes, a series of headlands, a free water park, picnic areas and swimming pools and enclosures. Children enjoy the large water playground and various sights along the walk, and once you reach the northern end you will be amazed with the lagoon style in-ground pool.
Cairns
Castle Hill Castle hill dominates the Townsville landscape with its pink hues and from some angles it resembles a scene from Jurassic Park with the Palms in the foreground and the hill rising from the ground. The lookout is worth the trip up the steep winding road for the magnificent views of the city as well as its historical significance. You haven’t been to Townsville if you haven’t been to the top of Castle Hill. Also a popular walk for the fitness enthusiasts.
Nowhere else in Australia can you interact with so many of Australia’s native animals. Visit Billabong Sanctuary for a fantastic day! You can cuddle a koala, hold a wombat, and if you’re brave enough, there’s snake and crocodile handling too! Nestled in 11 hectares (25 acres) of tropical bushland, the sanctuary is home to a magnificent variety of native mammals, birds and reptiles. Stroll around the park with the friendly kangaroos and wallabies, take part in all the handling and feeding shows, or simply relax by the pool.
EVENTS Cairns Chinese New Year 28 January - 15 February 2014 Chinese New Year 2014 - Year of the Horse. Celebrate the new Luna Year in Cairns with a number of vibrant cultural experiences, from first class dining, street festivals, art exhibitions, traditional entertainment and games, and demonstrations. Cairns offers a rich Chinese heritage and provides strong links to Chinese culture. Cairns and District Chinese Association Inc. (CADCAI) are proud to host Cairns Chinese New Year.
generation of V8 Supercars hit the track for three days of racing and a Saturday night concert. Kids can join in too with the all new Disney Pixar Fun Zone trackside. Kids 12 and under free admission with a paying adult.
The Great Barrier Reef
North Queensland Games, Townsville 4-7 April 2014 The biennial North Queensland Games have been held since 1984 and are recognised as Australia’s largest regional multi-sport event. Alternating between Townsville, Cairns and Mackay and covering a multitude of sports, this iconic event attracts thousands of competitors and spectators and has been the launching pad for many of northern Queensland’s elite athletes.
Strand Swim, Townsville 15 June 2014 Join in the 2.5 km and 5 km ocean swims held off Strand Beach, Townsville held by the Townsville Open Water Swimming Association. There`s also a Junior 1 km swim. The 5 km swim is a qualifier for the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim held in July.
Townsville 400 V8 Supercars 4 - 7 July 2014 Witness Townsville’s biggest sporting event with fanatics coming from all over Australia to see their Petrol headed heroes. Set across 3 high octane days of entertainment and racing, be part of the on track action at North Queensland’s biggest sporting event as the new
Magnetic Island Race Week 28 August – 2 September 2014 The newest Queensland yachting event on the annual scene is the Magnetic Island Race Week. Now yachting enthusiasts can add another spectacular event to their calendar. Taking place in the sheltered waters around Magnetic Island and Cleveland Bay, this weeklong regatta has earned a reputation for its live music, family entertainment, and quality food. Some people are most interested in the boats, while others are drawn by markets, live concerts, and entertainment for the kids.
Cyclone Sunday, Townsville 9 November 2014 Cyclone Sunday is a free communityawareness event for the public and new residents to Townsville. It informs the community on how to be ‘Cyclone Ready’ at the beginning of the Cyclone Season. Held in Strand Park there are predominately community and emergency organisations that have information available to assist residents prior to, during and after a cyclone. The local ABC radio station broadcasts live from the event.
One of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts, the Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. The reef contains an abundance of marine life and comprises of over 3000 individual reef systems and coral cays and literally hundreds of picturesque tropical islands with some of the worlds most beautiful sun-soaked, golden beaches. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and pulling away from it, and viewing it from a greater distance, you can understand why. It is larger than the Great Wall of China and the only living thing on earth visible from space. The marine park stretches over 3000km (1800 miles) almost parallel to the Queensland coast, from near the coastal town of Bundaberg, up past the tip of Cape York. The reef, between 15 kilometres and 150 kilometres off shore and around 65 Km wide in some parts, is a gathering of brilliant, vivid coral providing divers with the most spectacular underwater experience imaginable. A closer encounter with the Great Barrier Reef’s impressive coral gardens reveals many astounding underwater attractions including the world’s largest collection of corals (in fact, more than 400 different kinds of coral), coral sponges, molluscs, rays, dolphins, over 1500 species of tropical fish, more than 200 types of birds, around 20 types of reptiles including sea turtles and giant clams over 120 years old.
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QUEENSLAND
Qld Education and the Australian Curriculum The Australian Curriculum is being developed as a learning entitlement for each Australian student to provide a foundation for successful, lifelong learning and participation in the Australian community. It acknowledges the changing ways in which young people learn and the challenges that will continue to shape their learning in the future.
Queensland introduces the Australian Curriculum Queensland adopted the new Australian Curriculum for the subjects of English, mathematics and science at the beginning of 2012. The history curriculum commenced in 2013. The Australian Curriculum focuses on a greater depth of knowledge and understanding as students progress through school. By moving Year 7 to high school, Queensland schools will be able to provide students with access to the specialist facilities and expertise to support this focus. Primary schools that include Year 7 will introduce the Australian Curriculum from 2012 to 2014, before Year 7 moves to high school. To support implementation of the Australian Curriculum, all Education Queensland regions have specialist advisers to support the teaching of English, mathematics and science in schools and to help schools make the change to the Australian Curriculum. The Queensland Studies Authority (QSA) has provided all schools with practical advice and resources to ensure that all students have access to the learning described in the curriculum.
The Australian Curriculum will eventually be developed for all learning areas and subjects: initially for English, mathematics, science and history; followed by geography, languages, the arts, economics, business, civics and citizenship, health and physical education, and information and communication technology and design and technology. The Australian Curriculum includes a focus on seven general capabilities (Literacy, Numeracy, Information and communication technology capability, Critical and creative thinking, Ethical behaviour, Personal and social capability and intercultural understanding) and three crosscurriculum priorities (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia and Sustainability). Continuation of learning has been developed for the general capabilities to describe the relevant knowledge, skills and understanding at particular points of schooling. The Australian Curriculum includes two goals: Goal 1: Australian schooling promotes equity and excellence. Goal 2: All young Australians become successful learners, confident and creative individuals and active and informed citizens. The propositions that shape the development of the Australian Curriculum establish expectations that it is appropriate for all students. These propositions include: that each student can learn and that the needs of every student are important; that each student
is entitled to knowledge, understanding and skills that provide a foundation for successful and lifelong learning and participation in the Australian community; that high expectations should be set for each student as teachers account for the current level of learning of individual students and the different rates at which students develop; that the needs and interests of students will vary, and that schools and teachers will plan from the curriculum in ways that respond to those needs and interests. Increasingly, in a world where knowledge itself is constantly growing and evolving, students need to develop a set of skills, behaviours and dispositions, or general capabilities that apply across discipline content and equip them to be lifelong learners able to operate with confidence in a complex, information-rich, globalised world. The Australian Curriculum is online at www.australiancurriculum.edu.au
St Patrick’s College Townsville - 45 The Strand A Catholic Day and Residential Girls’ Secondary School in the Mercy Tradition
www.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au
Your daughter, Our school, Her future ... we offer young women: • A comprehensive academic program and a variety of co-curricular activities including music, debating, public speaking, dance and sport. • A caring and supportive environment for learning and personal development. • A 10% discount on Defence Family Tuition. Contact the Enrolments Officer, Mrs Michelle Emanuel on (07) 4753 0300 or email office@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au for further details.
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NORTHERN TERRITORY
Living and working in the Northern Territory Equivalent in size to France, Italy and Spain combined, Australia’s Outback Northern Territory is bordered by Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia. Blessed with an abundance of natural environments, the Territory is famous for its spectacular wildlife. This is an environment that ebbs and flows with the seasons, of contrast and colour, where change is the only constant. The Northern Territory is made up of six council areas, each with its own unique attractions. Darwin Darwin is arguably Australia’s most cosmopolitan city, boasting a population made up of people from more than 60 nationalities and 70 different ethnic backgrounds. The city’s multicultural mix is particularly highlighted by its many exciting ethnic cultural festivals and weekly food and craft markets. The city was founded as Australia’s most northerly harbour port in 1869, and its population rapidly expanded after the discovery of gold at nearby Pine Creek in 1871. World War II put the city on the map as a major allied military base for troops fighting the Japanese in the Pacific. Today travellers can see evidence of Darwin’s World War II history at a variety of preserved sites including ammunition bunkers, airstrips and oil tunnels in and around the city. Darwin’s traditional owners, the Larrakia people, are prominent and active members of the community, and many still adhere closely to their traditional beliefs and customs. Darwin has evolved from its days as an incredibly laid back frontier town and while it still retains its relaxed charm, it has become a highly sophisticated city.
Palmerston Palmerston, in the Northern Territory, is located 21km south of Darwin. The City was developed in the 1980s and has been one of Australia’s fastest growing areas. Palmerston was declared a city on 2 August 2000.
Palmerston has two major shopping complexes, various sporting clubs, restaurants, pubs, skate park, cinema and smaller shops.
Alice Springs Alice Springs is Australia’s most inland town, being close to the furthest point from the coast which is around 200km North West of Alice Springs. Although there are many unsealed roads connecting Alice Springs to other Australian settlements and towns the Stuart Highway is the only fully sealed road in the area. Alice Springs is one of the remotest places in the world, but it’s no country town. Alice Springs is a major communications and commercial centre. It has most of the services you would find in any Australian city.
Jabiru The unique township of Jabiru is situated in the middle of Kakadu – a National Park of world heritage status - and perched on the edge of Arnhem Land. Initially established to service the Ranger Uranium Mine, Jabiru hosts a range of services for residents and tourists alike and is the gateway to many of the amazing sights in Kakadu National Park. Residents in Jabiru have the best of both worlds – only 250 km from the highlife in Darwin but far enough from the city to get the best from nature. Living in Jabiru is heaven for those who like to fish, camp, bushwalk or birdwatch. The Mirarr people are the traditional owners of the Jabiru area.
Katherine Often called the ‘Crossroads of the North’ because of its location, Katherine is the fourth largest town in the Northern Territory and is located 312 kilometres south-east of Darwin on the Katherine River. Katherine is a modern thriving regional centre that offers a wide range of services to communities from the Western Australian border to the Gulf of Carpentaria on the Queensland border. There is a modern air-conditioned shopping centre, hospital, sports grounds, parks and gardens as well as a large number of Commonwealth and Territory Government services.
Tennant Creek Tennant Creek, with a population of 3,500 people, is the only town of any size in the centre of the Northern Territory. It lies on the Stuart Highway 510 kms north of Alice Springs and 670 kms south of Katherine. The Barkly Region, which it serves, is a huge, and sometimes forgotten, expanse of 240,000 square kms between the tropical ‘Top End’ and the arid ‘Red Centre’. It is roughly the same size as the U.K. or New Zealand, and consists largely of open grass plains with scattered cattle stations, mines and aboriginal communities.
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NORTHERN TERRITORY Defence in the Northern Territory The ADF makes a significant contribution to the Territory’s resident population, with the Defence presence more than doubling since the early 1990s. The number of Defence personnel and their families is estimated at 15,000 which represents more than six per cent of the Territory’s population. Larrakeyah Barracks
ARMY
Headquarters Northern Command (HQNORCOM) at Larrakeyah Barracks in Darwin City is a Joint Operational Level Headquarters focussed on the defence of Northern Australia.NORCOM has evolved and today its primary concern is border security operations. However, the facilitation of Defence activities, including Defence Assistance to the Civil Community (DACC) in the north remains an important responsibility. Also based at Larrakeyah Barracks is NORFORCE. NORFORCE is permanently assigned to a Joint Commander for ongoing surveillance operations in northern Australia. The unit relies heavily on the commitment and local knowledge of the population of northern Australia, including a high proportion of Aboriginal soldiers to fulfill its role. Defence Establishment Berrimah, formerly HMAS Coonawarra, is a multi-tenanted base that accommodates staff from Defence Support Central and West and the Chief Information Officer Group along with Defence contractors. The Australian Navy Cadet unit, Training Ship Darwin also calls Berrimah home.
Robertson Barracks accommodates Army’s only mechanised brigade (1st Brigade) as well as the 1st Aviation Regiment, which is the sole operator of the Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters, and a company from the 1st Military Policy Battalion. The brigade’s vehicles include the M1A1 Abrams tank, the Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV) and the M113AS4 Armoured Personnel Carriers. These capabilities allow the Brigade to conduct manoeuvres and protected close combat, meaning that the 1st Brigade is the most complete combined-arms organisation in the Australian Army. The 1st Brigade units include two mechanised infantry battalions (5th and 7th Battalions of the Royal Australian Regiment), a tank regiment (1st Armoured Regiment), an armoured reconnaissance regiment (2nd Cavalry Regiment), 8/12 Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, 1st Combat Engineer Regiment, 1st Combat Signals Regiment, and 1st Combat Services Support Battalion.
NAVY Larrakeyah Barracks is walking distance from Darwin CBD. Darwin is a vitally important Navy port - a gateway to Australia’s northern neighbours and the centre from which to conduct border, fishery and economic protection operations. Darwin currently supports 10 Armidale Class Patrol boats and two Landing Craft Heavy ships, and plays host to major RAN and multinational exercises and operations involving Australian and foreign major warships on a regular basis. Currently, almost 650 Navy men and women are based in the Darwin area either working within at Larrakeyah Barracks or at sea undertaking Fleet operations.
AIR FORCE RAAF Base Darwin is located 7km from the Darwin CBD. It is home to 396 Expeditionary Combat Support Wing which commands the combat support units at most Australian bases, including the three bare bases in Far North QLD and WA. RAAF Base Tindal near Katherine and 320kms by road southeast of Darwin. The airfield is the home to a squadron of F/A-18 Hornet aircraft with No 75 Squadron. The squadron is supported by 322 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron; its mission is to provide fixed airbase support at Tindal and also support functions away from Tindal in any threat environment. RAAF Tindal’s contribution to the local community includes such things as flood relief and Defence Aid to the Civil Community.
ADF members support the Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin commemorations with catafalque and flag raising parties, RAAF fly past and ceremonial gunfire by the Army’s 8th/12th Medium Regiment.
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Anniversary of the bombing of Darwin On 19 February 1942, World War II was brought to the shores of Australia when the Japanese dropped bombs over Darwin. The Bombing of Darwin was the first of more than 90 Japanese air raids across the top end of Australia from February 1942 until November 1943. The first wave of 188 aircraft attacked Darwin at 9:58am on Thursday 19 February 1942. 243 people were confirmed killed and between 320 and 500 injured. Eight ships (Naval & Civilian) were sunk in the harbour including USS Peary, in which more than 80 American sailors were killed. A section of the wharf was destroyed, killing 22 waterside workers. Over the next 21 months, Darwin, Adelaide River, Katherine and Milingimbi in Arnhem Land were bombed 64 times. In recognition of this defining moment in Australia’s history, on 7 December 2011 the Governor-General proclaimed 19 February a national day of observance, to be known as Bombing of Darwin Day. 2014 is the 72nd Anniversary to tribute, honour and remember those who defend Darwin. The Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin is commemorated each year on 19 February at the Cenotaph, Bicentennial Park, Darwin and attracts many veterans who served in Darwin around that time. The service begins at 9.30am with the sounding of the WWII air raid siren at 9.58am - the same time it sounded years ago as waves of Japanese bombers flew over the city.
EVENTS BASSINTHEGRASS Music Festival 24 May 2014
BASSINTHEGRASS is the largest music festival in the Northern Territory, and is held annually at the Darwin Botanic Gardens Ampitheatre. Styled on the Big Day Out concerts held in other states, BASSINTHEGRASS brings bands such as Flume and Grinspoon to the Territory, as well as showcasing local emerging groups.
Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta 6 July 2014
Make a date in your diary and start building your boat for this year’s Beer Can Regatta. Held at Mindil Beach, come and enjoy a great family day. Beach events for all ages, and entrance by gold coin donation, all proceeds from the day go to projects supported by the combined Lions Clubs of Darwin. Mindil markets will trade all day.
Lions Imparja Camel Cup, Alice Springs 13 July 2014 The quirky, annual Lions Imparja Camel Cup attracts visitors to Alice Springs from all over the world. While camels may have a reputation as dedicated ‘ships of the desert’,
these magnificent beasts are certainly not short on personality. Racing them can prove a nightmare for riders and handlers but fantastic viewing for spectators. Entertainment is assured, with nine unique races scheduled around the dusty outback track.
sane people race in bottomless ‘eights’, ‘oxford tubs’, ‘bath tubs’ and ‘yachts’ through the deep coarse sand. Food and drink stalls are available, with all proceeds going to the three local Rotary clubs in Alice Springs, and ultimately back to the Alice Community.
The Darwin Festival 7 - 24 August 2014
The Darwin Festival is recognised locally, nationally and internationally as the premier festival for the ‘Top End’ of Australia and the Asia Pacific Region, and for its quality, diversity and innovation in arts programming and presentation. The Festival is a feast of creativity, showcasing the Northern Territory as a cultural destination of choice through contributing to the artistic, cultural and economic development of the Top End, and attracts an audience of more than 75,000 annually. Festivities take place in a number of venues around town including the Darwin Waterfront and in the hub of the city’s lively entertainment district.
Henley-On-Todd Regatta 16 August 2014
A boat race with a unique difference - on the dry sands of the Todd River. The Henley-OnTodd Regatta is a day of fun where teams and individuals race ‘boats’, in the dry bed of the Todd River in outback Alice Springs. Have fun and enjoy the hilarity as you watch seemingly
Global Green Challenge - Darwin to Adelaide - October 2014
Known as the ‘brain sport’ of our time, the Global Green Challenge participants traverse more than 3,000 kilometres of the Australian continent from tropical Darwin to Adelaide, in cars powered by nothing more than the sun. The ‘Challenge’, to design and build a car capable of crossing Australia on the power of daylight, utilizes and showcases the most innovative research and development of alternative transport technologies. Attracting teams from corporations and universities all over the world, the Global Green Challenge is a celebration of achievement, courage and the application of scientific knowledge in the field of solar technology.
The Territory -
not just another posting A new posting can be both exciting and challenging for Defence families. If you’re wondering what living and working in Darwin or Katherine is all about, why not let the Northern Territory Government deliver you a virtual taste right in your own home? Our dedicated Welcome to the Territory website and Life in Darwin and Life in Katherine DVD’s are the perfect tools to provide a snapshot of life in this unique region of Australia. To visit Welcome to the Territory please see www.defencesupport.nt.gov.au For your free DVD please email defencesupport@nt.gov.au For more information call (08) 8999 7772.
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NORTHERN TERRITORY HOT SPOTS A vibrant harbour city, Darwin boasts a laid-back lifestyle that revolves around the outdoors - idyllic weather in the dry season and dramatic lightning shows in the wet season. Locals and travellers alike make the most of this youthful city’s lush setting with a constant celebration of life at open air cinemas, markets, festivals, parks and reserves or fishing and cruising on the impressive harbour.
Australian Aviation Heritage Centre
Darwin Waterfront The Darwin Waterfront has been a welcomed addition to the tropical city of Darwin. A short stroll from the CBD, The Darwin Waterfront Precinct is home to the Territory’s only Wave Lagoon. Offering safe year-round swimming the Wave Lagoon is open daily and is a great spot to cool off, relax or ride a wave. The Wave Lagoon and shallow toddler pools are chlorinated salt water with the lagoon depth varying from 2m at the deepest point. The Recreation Lagoon offers everyone a free safe swimming beach with mesh screens in place to prevent marine stingers entering the Lagoon. Lifeguards patrol the lagoon seven days a week.
Museum & Art Gallery of the NT The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory covers many aspects of the region’s art, natural sciences, history and culture. Featuring fantastic permanent collections of Aboriginal Art and culture, visual arts and crafts including pieces from the SouthEast Asia and Pacific regions, maritime archaeology and NT history, the gallery also presents a yearly program of local, national and international exhibitions, and features an excellent display of Cyclone Tracey which devastated Darwin in 1974. It’s great entertainment for all the family.
Mindil Beach Sunset Market From April, and running through until the end of October, the Mindil Beach market folk come together for their world-famous ‘show and sell’. Held every Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon 5pm-10pm, the Market regularly attracts crowds of up to 15,000. It is by far Darwin’s most popular market, with local produce, authentic fare from different countries, some of the most colourful Territorians plying their wares and services, and a galaxy of excellent street performers to keep you entertained.
Kakadu National Park No visit to the Top End can ever be complete unless you experience the magnificent Kakadu National Park. It is supremely beautiful and immensely important for its Aboriginal history and unique ecology. World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park boasts more than 1,000 Aboriginal rock art sites making it one of Australia’s most important cultural treasures. The 19,000 square kilometre park is 260km east of Darwin on the sealed Arnhem Highway. Most accessible in the dry season from May to September, it is at its most spectacular in the Wet as evening storms deluge the land creating massive lakes teaming with birdlife. Though you may not be able to see the entire park’s most beautiful places, such as Jim Jim and Twin Falls, any time is the right time to go to Kakadu.
Litchfield National Park
Litchfield National Park, just an hour-and-ahalf from Darwin, is a tropical oasis where visitors can experience the thrill of swimming beneath rushing waterfalls or marvel at rare magnetic termite mounds.
The Australian Aviation Heritage Centre is one of the major aviation museums in Australia. The Centre has an impressive presentation of aircraft and displays depicting the Territory’s involvement in aviation, both civil and military, from the early pioneers and record breakers through World War II and the jet age. There are two major displays. One is a massive B-52 bomber on permanent loan from the United States Air Force and is one of only two on public display in the world outside the USA. The other major display is the F-111, one of six F-111 aircraft which is on loan to qualified civilian historical societies and aviation museums. The F-111 fleet was retired by the Air Force during December 2010 after 37 years of service. It is historically significant as it took part in the last bombing raid in Vietnam while it was in USAF livery. The Centre is approximately 8 kms from the city and is the largest single span building in the Northern Territory.
Deckchair Cinema Deckchair Cinema, operated by the Darwin Film Society, is a unique cinema experience. The outdoor setting, on the edge of Darwin Harbour is absolutely stunning. Watch the sunset over the sea, then sit under the stars and enjoy the tropical garden setting with a meal and a drink before the film. Deckchair Cinema runs seven nights a week during the dry season (April to November) screening a range of movies that include family favourites, Australian and foreign films. Wine, beer, soft drinks and snacks and hot food is available on site every night. You are welcome to bring your own picnic, but strictly NO BYO alcohol. The box office and kiosk open at 6.30pm. Deckchair Cinema is a nonsmoking venue.
Let us Plan your weekend in Katherine and abroad. Our experienced staff have an abundance of knowledge on great swimming spots, walking tracks, camping, fishing, tours, accommodation, upcoming events and any other general information you may require. Give us a call or come in and see us.
Phone: 08 8972 2650 or 1800 653 142 | Address: Corner Stuart Hwy and Lindsay Street, Katherine Website: www.visitkatherine.com.au | Email: vistor@ktc.nt.gov.au
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Education NT School is compulsory in the Northern Territory from the age of six. However children can enrol in preschools earlier than this and start Transition as they approach five years of age. Stages of school
NT Curriculum Framework
Preschool in NT is not compulsory, although it is highly recommended. Children can attend government preschools from the age of four. At some non-government preschools, children can start earlier than this. At age five or soon after, children start Transition, the first stage of primary school. Children often enter Transition mid-term, depending on their birthdays and the numbers of other children in that age group. Children are in Transition for up to 12 months and move into Year 1 when the school and parents agree they are ready. Students attend primary school until they complete Year 7. For Years 8 to 12, children attend secondary school. Most primary and secondary schools are open from 8.00am to 2.30pm, Monday to Friday. Preschools offer morning and afternoon sessions for students.
Since 2002 the Northern Territory (NT) has had a mandated Curriculum Framework that identifies learning outcomes for all Northern Territory students from Transition to Year 10. The NTCF describes what students are expected to achieve and is used to determine what has been achieved. NTCF outcomes have been re-constructed into achievement standards to enable a consistent assessment and reporting methodology with Australian Curriculum achievement standards. NT schools continue to use the learning areas of the NTCF that are not yet replaced by Australian Curriculum learning areas and subjects according to the implementation timeline.
Senior secondary schooling Senior secondary students generally work towards the Northern Territory Certificate of Education. The certificate is issued to students who meet the requirements and levels of achievement during their senior secondary studies. There are two levels: Stage 1, generally Year 11, and Stage 2, generally Year 12. Although most students complete the certificate in two years, it can be done part-time for as many years as required. At least 22 approved units must be studied. Senior secondary students in the Territory undertake subjects developed and accredited by the Senior Secondary Assessment Board of South Australia (SSABSA).
The Australian Curriculum Northern Territory schools commenced teaching Australian Curriculum English and Mathematics in 2012 and Science and History at the beginning of Semester Two in 2013. The NT implementation timeline approved by the NT Board of Studies provides details on the implementation of subsequent Australian Curriculum learning areas and subjects.
Year 10 curriculum Support materials are provided for Year 10 Australian Curriculum English and Mathematics. These include sequence suggestions, template learning and assessment plans and subject specific performance standards which are aligned to the Australian Curriculum achievement standards. Year 10 literacy and numeracy courses are offered for students who have not met the Year 9 achievement standards. Teachers design student specific programs to meet a students’ current ability and move them towards the year 10 achievement standards.
School leaving age In the Northern Territory it is compulsory for all students to complete Year 10 and then participate in education, training or employment until they turn 17.
Tertiary Entrance Rank The Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER) is one of the factors universities use to determine whether a student is eligible for a course. The Northern Territory Certificate of Education (NTCE) and TER issued to Northern Territory students are recognised nationally. The NTCE is the equivalent of senior secondary certificates across Australia.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
May Day
Monday May 5
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9 Picnic Day
Monday August 4
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
January 28 to April 4 (10 weeks)
Term 2
April 14 to June 20 (10 weeks)
Term 3
July 21 to September 26 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 6 to December 11 (10 weeks)
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NORTHERN TERRITORY Services for Young People Youth play a highly important role in the Darwin community. In fact, the Northern Territory is second only to the ACT with a higher than national average youth population in comparison to its total population. Darwin Council recognises its youth community as diverse, dynamic and requiring specialised attention and has set the span of its youth services though its Youth Strategy: LOUD and CLEAR which provides a plan through to 2014. LOUD and CLEAR can be downloaded from the website or you can pick one up from Council. Under the Youth Services banner, Council convenes the Youth Advisory Group (YAG), the GRIND youth website and events team which hosts an annual youth event or workshop. Events to date have included Graffik Measures aerosol art project, POPART workshop featuring former MAMBO artist Jeff Raglus, WILPOWER - a media and leadership workshop hosted by Triple J’s Wil Anderson, THA BIG GIG 2004, THE BIG GIG 2009 to 2012 which marked the City of Darwin’s official closing event for National Youth Week showcasing local and interstate bands. Since the adoption of its first Youth Strategy in 2000, all youth events supported by Council such as THE BIG GIG, POPART, WILPOWER and the GRIND website were planned, hosted and delivered exclusively by young people for young people. Youth Services coordinates the Youth Services Directory - a directory resource for youth sector workers. This publication may be downloaded off the website or obtained from Council. For young people, a free pocket size youth information card is produced and distributed to all students and youth service providers in the Darwin area. For further information, please contact Council’s Youth Services Officer on 8930 0635, email youthprojects@darwin.nt.gov.au or visit the website: www.darwin.nt.gov.au/live/your-community
Fun Bus - Mobile Playgroup The Fun Bus is a mobile playgroup service jointly funded by Darwin City Council and the Northern Territory Government. Parents, carers and children up to 5 years are invited to attend. The Fun Bus operates weekdays 9.30 - 11.30 am between February and December, and during school holidays except December/January. It does not operate on public holidays. There is no charge for activities, however you are asked to provide one piece of fruit per family to be shared at morning tea. Further info call 08 8930 0556 or the Fun Bus 0419 031 651.
Holy Spirit
Catholic Primary School a choice for your child’s future
Our Catholic Primary School offers to your child: • A Christian values based program • A rich culturally diverse community experience • A seamless transition from Early Years (Ages 3-5) to Year 6 • A strong focus on student leadership • Strong student performances in NAPLAN and school-wide testing program • Specialist classes in Physical Education, Performing Arts and Indonesian language • Extra Curricular activities including Dance, Junior Choir, Senior Choir and all Boys Choir • Long Day Care and Pre-School program provision through nationally accredited program delivery and staff. Before School and After School programs (7am–8am) (2:30–5:30) provided through nationally accredited program delivery and staff.
Gsell Street, Wanguri NT Phone: 08 8927 3411 Web: http:/sites.google.com/site/holyspiritprimaryschoolnt Email: admin.holyspirit@nt.catholic.edu.au
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ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE KATHERINE NT
Provides a quality caring education in the Catholic tradition.
Early Learning Centre Primary Years (Transition – Year 6) Secondary (Year 7 – Year 12) Year 12 commences in 2014 After school care program Respect • Resilience • Relationships Phone: 08 8972 3555
www.sjcckatherine.nt.edu.au
AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY HOT SPOTS Discover the home of the Australian story in Canberra.
Living and working in the Australian Capital Territory Canberra, the nation’s capital, is located in the Australian Capital Territory, which is surrounded by New South Wales. The city is 150 kilometres inland and 571 metres above the Pacific Ocean, 281 kilometres from Sydney and 660 kilometres from Melbourne. About 367,000 people live in Canberra. The area was chosen for the federal capital in 1908. Canberra’s special contrast of nature and urban living was planned in 1912 by master designer, Walter Burley Griffin, a Chicago architect who won an international design competition. Since then, Canberra has grown into a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with national attractions of heritage and history. Canberra will celebrate its centenary as the nation’s capital in 2013.
Defence in the ACT Canberra is home to most of Australia’s Canberra is home to most of Australia’s defence leadership. More than 13,000 people work within the Australian Defence Organisation there. Defence headquarters are centred mainly in Russell Offices, Brindabella Business Park and Campbell Park Offices. The Australian Defence Force Academy, Canberra provides future ADF officers with a university education, and is the primary training establishment for officers of the ADF. The Royal Military College Duntroon is situated approximately five minutes from the city centre, and it prepares candidates for careers as officers in the Army. The Air Force’s RAAF Base Fairbairn is located approximately eight kilometres from the centre of Canberra, and is home to No 34 Squadron flying the VIP transport fleet based out of Canberra airport.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014
Education ACT In the ACT it is compulsory for children to be enrolled in school from age 6. All students are required to participate in full-time education until they complete Year 10, and then participate full-time in education, training or employment until completing Year 12 or equivalent, or reaching 17 years of age. Starting school Primary schools in the ACT offer child centred early childhood programs in preschool settings and high quality primary school education. Both short and long day sessions (to a maximum of twelve hours per week) are available in the year prior to Kindergarten. Children must be four years of age on or before 30 April to enrol in a preschool program. Children who are enrolling in an ACT Public Primary School for the first time at Kindergarten must be five years of age on or before 30 April.
High Schools High school education is available from Years 7-10. ACT high schools are dynamic, innovative and supportive learning communities that provide challenging education programs and pastoral care.
The vast wealth of Australia’s culture, history and way of life is housed in the national museums, galleries and attractions in Canberra. These national icons offer an intriguing insight into the Australian character and democracy, and our journey from an indigenous continent to a modern nation. Celebrate Australia’s proud sporting achievements at the Australian Institute of Sport, delve into our political history at Parliament House and its predecessor the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, see the famous painting “Blue Poles” on a visit to the National Art Gallery or visit the National Portrait Gallery to see portraits of people who have shaped our nation. And if there’s one thing you must do, visit the Australian War Memorial which commemorates the sacrifice of Australian men and women who have served in war. Open daily 10am to 5pm.
At the completion of Year 10 students in the Australian Capital Territory may proceed to a secondary college. Enrolment for secondary colleges commences in September of each year. There is a very high retention rate in the ACT from Year 10 to Years 11 and 12 as secondary colleges have proved to be effective in preparing young people for both work and further education.
Senior Secondary Colleges The ACT’s senior secondary colleges cater for students in Years 11 & 12. The ACT college system sets a national standard in senior secondary education and includes tertiary pre-entry curriculum from the ANU and the University of Canberra.
Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Canberra Day
Monday March 10
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9 Labour Day
Monday October 6
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
January 31 to April 11 (10 weeks)
Term 2
April 28 to July 4 (10 weeks)
Term 3
July 21 to September 26 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 13 to December 17 (10 weeks)
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NEW SOUTH WALES
Living and working in New South Wales
As the most multicultural city in the Asia Pacific, Sydney’s cultural diversity has produced a society that is creative, open and friendly. Sydney offers a secure environment for families, with excellent facilities, transport and telecommunications. Sydney is Australia’s oldest and biggest city and is the gateway to Australia, set on one of the world’s most stunning harbours, which extends either side in a golden chain of easy-to-reach, inner-city beaches Sydney’s laid-back outdoor lifestyle and physical allure make it one of the world’s easiest and most pleasant cities to visit. All of its attributes lie within easy reach of the city centre. Sydneysiders are famously obsessed by the outdoors and why not, with such a beautiful harbour, endless beaches and coastal walks. The opportunities afforded by Sydney’s natural landscape and climate means access to its harbour and beaches are easy with out-of-the-ordinary adventures commonplace. Sydney’s harbour is its natural playground, the dominant factor in so much of what the city has to offer. The city has a wide-ranging cultural life, dynamic food scene and vibrant cityscape of outstanding contemporary and colonial architecture. Iconic beaches and five major national parks deliver unforgettable experiences.
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HOT SPOTS Sydney Harbour Sydney is the city to set your pulse racing, with the harbour at its heart. Catch a ferry, take a harbour cruise or feel the wind in your sails on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours in the world. Kayaking in the quieter parts of the harbour is relaxing while a high-speed jet boat trip is pure fun.
Sydney Opera House One of the busiest performing arts centres in the world, the Opera House offers a diversity of performances that are challenging, dynamic, engaging and entertaining. The Opera House is on every visitor’s ‘must do’ list. But you haven’t ‘done’ the Opera House if all you’ve done is taken a photo. Go inside and experience the magic. See a show. Go on a tour. Take High Tea. Enjoy awardwinning dining. Or combine the best of everything with a package. Open 9am til late, daily. Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday.
The Rocks & Circular Quay
Luna Park
Circular Quay is the stepping-off point for most attractions based around the harbour. The quay is a vibrant, bustling place with ferries leaving every few minutes to different parts of the harbour. On the southern side of Circular Quay is a walkway that leads to the Sydney Opera House while on the northern side, a short walk takes you to the Harbour Bridge and The Rocks, one of the oldest, most attractive and most interesting parts of Sydney. The Rocks has recently undergone an amazing metamorphosis, the old district being transformed into a vibrant pocket of cafes and restaurants and interesting tourist shops and stalls.
Entry to Luna Park is FREE! So come on down and enjoy the carnival atmosphere and spectacular views without spending a cent! If you want to enjoy the rides, select from a variety of passes, each designed to give you the maximum amount of fun and value for your budget. Soak up the atmosphere and the magnificent views while the kids enjoy the rides and games, or have a go yourself and relive your childhood.
Defence in NSW New South Wales is home to a number of Defence units of all three Services. Most units are based around the greater Sydney and Newcastle areas with others at Singleton, Wagga and Jervis Bay.
NAVY Located at Potts Point, Sydney Fleet Headquarters (FHQ) is adjacent to the Garden Island Dockyard and Fleet Base East on the southern shore of Sydney Harbour. The Headquarters supports maritime operations and is organised functionally, with major divisions for operations planning, command/control communications and intelligence, as well as logistic and administration support. HMAS KUTTABUL provides administrative, training and logistics support to Defence personnel, both uniformed and civilian employed within the Sydney area. HMAS Penguin’s primary role is to provide trained personnel to the Fleet and it is the home of the RAN Diving School, the RAN Hydrographic School and the Medical Training School. HMAS WATERHEN is the parent establishment for Australia ‘s Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Force, Clearance Diving Team One and a variety of Support Craft. HMAS WATSON is the premier RAN maritime warfare training establishment. It is the home of the Training Authority Maritime Warfare and is part of the Navy Systems Command. The Royal Australian Naval College (RANC) is based beside picturesque Jervis Bay on the south coast of New South Wales and is responsible for training Navy’s future leaders. HMAS Creswell is located on the south-western shores of Jervis Bay. Creswell consists of the RAN College and four other departments. HMAS ALBATROSS at Nowra is home of the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Air Arm. It is the largest operational Naval establishment and the Navy’s only Air Station.
ARMY The Sydney region is home to the Land Command Headquarters, HQ Logistics Support Force, HQ Force Support Group, with many units located at historic Victoria Barracks on Oxford Street, and at Randwick. Holsworthy Barracks is the largest Army facility in NSW. Holsworthy is home to growing Special Forces presence including Headquarters Special Operations Command, 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (Commando), the Incident Response Regiment, the Special Operations Combat Services Support Company. Lone Pine Barracks at Singleton is the home of the School of Infantry and the Special Forces Training Centre. Kapooka at Wagga is the home of the Army Recruit Training Centre.
AIR FORCE RAAF Base Richmond is the home of Air Lift Group and is the hub of the Air Force in New South Wales. Aircraft operating from RAAF Richmond include the C-130J operated by No 37 Squadron. RAAF Base Williamtown 30 kilometres north of Newcastle is the primary fighter base for the Royal Australian Air Force, and home to most of the F/A-18A/B Hornet and BAE Hawk fighters. The base is headquarters to Air Combat Group, which commands Australia’s front line fighter and strike aircraft. RAAF Base Glenbrook, in the foothills of the Blue Mountains is home to Headquarters Air Command and Combat Support Unit. RAAF Base Wagga Wagga is home to the RAAF School of Management and Training Technology trade training schools and the No 1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU).
EVENTS Sydney Festival 9 - 26 January 2014 The Sydney Festival has a huge program of events planned for this year’s event, with a three week ticketed program that will reach an audience of around 1 million people. Presenting the very best international and national performing and visual arts, in theatres, galleries and concert halls across the city, the program is kaleidoscopic in its diversity, from burlesque circus to New York rap to Russian theatre; contemporary dance to family programs to traditional Indigenous arts practice. The program comprises around 300 performances and 80 events performed by over 1000 artists in at least 20 venues each year.
Twilight at Taronga Zoo 1 February - 29 March 2014 Get set for a wild night out at the Taronga Zoo concert stage. Grab your friends and picnic baskets and get ready to go wild! The 2014 Summer Concert Series will feature the Whitlams, Jimmy Barnes, Darryl Braithwaite and Ross Wilson, Katie Noonan, Richard Clapton and loads of tribute bands, and a big band finale with James Morrison. Come early and enjoy the zoo in the afternoon followed by an amazing evening at the Twilight Concerts. Bring your picnic blanket and hamper, concert starts after the zoo closure. No alcohol allowed.
Sydney Royal Flower & Garden Show 10 - 23 April 2014 This annual horticultural show will educate, impress and amaze. Held in a range of venues at the Sydney Showgrounds, the show features flower displays, advice from gardening experts, and a sculpture walk. It’s a mecca for flower and garden enthusiasts, including water-wise and sustainable gardening practices, and new trends in plants.
Sun-Herald City2Surf Run 10 August 2014 The Sun Herald City to Surf Fun Run is a 14km route for all the family. Runners start near Hyde Park in Sydney's city centre, follow the harbour through the Eastern Suburbs and finish at the famous Bondi Beach. Entrants number in the region of more than 55,000 and applications must be in a month before the race, so get training!
Bathurst 1000 9 - 12 October 2014 This is a "not-to-be-missed" event for petrol heads, raced on the Mt Panorama circuit, Bathurst. The event is a 1000 kilometre endurance touring car race and to the winner goes the Peter Brock Trophy, named in honour of the most successful driver in the history of the race, who took line honours a staggering nine times.
Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve 31 December 2014
Sydney is the place to be on New Year’s Eve, and the fun starts early. The evening starts off with entertainment from 5pm, followed by an indigenous smoking ceremony at 8pm and family fireworks at 9pm. Following this, a flotilla of vessels switch on their lights and begin a spectacular parade around Sydney Harbour. A crowd favourite, the Harbour of Light Parade features specially lit vessels sailing on a 15km circuit around Sydney Harbour. Then the countdown starts to midnight, when the harbour is filled with a spectacular fireworks display featuring the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
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NEW SOUTH WALES Education NSW Schooling in New South Wales follows a curriculum based on stages of learning. Each stage is approximately equivalent to two school years as students move from Early Stage 1 in Kindergarten through to Stage 6 in Years 11 and 12. Starting School Starting school is an important step in a young child’s life. Children develop at different rates and learn skills in different ways. It is the school’s task to respond to the needs, learning styles and rates of progress of individual students. Specialist advice and support is available to parents/caregivers of children with disabilities to help them access appropriate educational services. Talk to the school as early as possible about these services.
Orientation Day
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9 Labour Day
Monday October 6
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
January 28 to April 11 (11 weeks)
Term 2
April 28 to June 27 (9 weeks)
Most schools have orientation days towards the end of the previous year to welcome children to Kindergarten. Many schools also have transition to Kindergarten programs over several weeks in the second part of the year.
Preschool Preschools provide educational programs for children one year prior to enrolment in Kindergarten. A child may be eligible for enrolment in preschool from the beginning of the school year if they turn four years on or before 31 July that year. Some preschools offer a half day session, with children attending either five mornings or five afternoons per week. Other preschools provide full day attendance for 2, 3 or 5 days per week. The preschool program is designed to stimulate children’s thinking, communicating, investigating, exploring and problem solving skills. The program includes play-based activities that help children learn how to interact positively with other children and to recognise and accept their own feelings and those of others. The program also supports the development of early language, literacy and numeracy skills.
Term 3
Kindergarten to Year 6
Term 4
Children may enter kindergarten at the beginning of the school year in NSW government schools if they turn five on or before 31 July in that year. By law, all children must start school by their sixth birthday.
July 14 to September 19 (10 weeks) October 7 to December 19 (11 weeks)
Kindergarten to Year 6 focuses on the key learning areas of English, Mathematics, Science & Technology, Human Society, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, Creative Arts and Languages.
Preparing for high school NSW students enter high school in Year 7. Once you have determined which high school you would like your child to attend, the next step is to complete an expression of interest. If your child is already attending year 6 in a public primary school you will receive this form during late term 1.
School leaving age Students must complete Year 10 (or its equivalent), then remain in approved education or training or a combination of education and paid work until the age of 17.
Starting Year 11 Students begin to prepare for their HSC in Year 11 so it’s important to get settled into a good study routine at the beginning of the year. Study requirements will increase markedly in Year 11 and more so in Year 12. There are two types of HSC courses students can study: Board Developed courses which are set and examined externally, and which may contribute to the calculation of a Universities Admission Index (UAI), and Board Endorsed courses which are developed by schools, TAFE or universities, which count towards HSC but do not count towards the calculation of the UAI. The subjects you take may influence an employer to select you for a particular position. In particular consider VET Framework courses which will give you specific competencies that are valuable in the workplace. VET courses give students work-related skills in a variety of industry areas and can count towards the HSC if students sit the HSC exam. Students will receive a nationally recognised qualification when they successfully complete their course. Some VET courses are studied at school whilst others can be studied at TAFE.
National Assessment Program (NAPLAN) Students Australia-wide in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit for the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) test in May. NAPLAN tests assess student knowledge and skill in numeracy, reading, writing, spelling, punctuation and grammar. The results of the tests provide information for students, parents, teachers and principals about student achievement which can be used to inform teaching and learning programs. NAPLAN tests provide point-in-time information regarding student progress across Australia in literacy and numeracy and are intended to complement teacher judgement and the wide range of formal
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and informal testing programs that are already used in schools. NAPLAN test results are not intended to be used in isolation from other school-based assessment programs. Schools should ensure that, along with whole-school planning for delivery of the VELS curriculum, a variety of assessment tasks is used to assess student learning. All students are encouraged to take part in the NAPLAN tests. Special provisions are available to meet the needs of individual students and children with special needs. Parents or carers of students who sit for
the NAPLAN tests will receive a written report of their child’s achievement in September. The student report will show your child’s results in the key areas of reading, writing, language conventions and numeracy. The report also shows the national average, the range of results for the middle 60% of students nationally and your school’s average for each test. That means you’ll be able to clearly see how your child compares with other students in the same year of schooling.
Helping your child learn It is not just students who can find the HSC year a very stressful and difficult time. Family members also need support; they want to help but are often fearful of appearing to interfere. This is frequently the year during which, in addition to sitting for the HSC, Year 12 students may: lose interest in school, have no plans for after the HSC, develop an intense relationship with a boyfriend or girlfriend, gain a driver’s licence, experiment with legal or illegal drugs, have a part-time job, be a member of a sporting team, develop an eating disorder or suffer from depression. All these are complications which can cause parents and caregivers additional concern. You are not alone. NSW HSC online provides information on the people and agencies that you can contact for help with personal, academic and career issues. The most obvious forms of support parents can offer are the practical, physical things: Provide a good place to study. Ideally it should be quiet, a comfortable temperature, with good ventilation, good lighting, adequate desk or table space and free from distractions such as TV, noise, telephone, conversations, little brothers and sisters. Provide good, balanced meals. Encourage sensible levels of sleep and some form of regular exercise. Encourage moderation in late night parties and alcohol consumption. Less obvious but of equal or perhaps greater importance are the things you can do to provide a positive and understanding emotional environment. Be supportive and encouraging. Encourage confidence by reassuring them. If you have doubts, keep them to yourself. Highlight strengths and successes. Encourage your child not to dwell on failures. Reframe failures as “mistakes” and encourage them to see mistakes as something we can learn from. Appreciate that most students will be experiencing quite a high level of stress, frequently without any obvious indicators. Many fear that they might let their family down or that they will not be able to match the performance of siblings or relatives. There are also many pressures other than examination pressures. Many students experience a sense of impending departure: leaving home, leaving lifelong friends, the prospect of starting university. Appreciate that it is normal for people under pressure to become supersensitive and explosive from time to time. Family members are usually the first targets. Try not to overreact to such outbursts. Be realistic in your expectations as to where the HSC leads. For the majority of HSC students, university study is an unrealistic option Encourage a reasonable balance between work and leisure. Planned leisure periods are an essential component of a good study program. An occasional total escape for a few days may also be excellent therapy for a student who is feeling excessively stressed. Encourage and allow your child to be as independent as you can possibly stand. The more independent he or she can be in meeting the demands of Year 12, the better prepared he or she will be to succeed at a tertiary level or in the workforce.
Leaving school So, what do you want to be when you grow up? duh ... Some of us can’t wait to leave school and move on to bigger and better things - university, TAFE, traineeships, a new job, or travelling the world. For others it may be a stressful time, saying goodbye to friends and moving away from home. Then there are those of us who haven’t even thought about want we want to do when school finishes. As you explore your choices it’s a great idea to talk with your career adviser, teachers, parents or friends about what you’re interested in doing with your life. There are also a vast array of websites especially designed to help school leavers explore the options available through university study, TAFE courses, apprenticeships and training programs, as well as hundreds of profiles on different careers.
“The most welcoming school we have been part of, and particularly Defence friendly.” Current Defence Family
A welcoming, caring, Christian community. We look forward to meeting you.
www.waggachristian.nsw.edu.au
ph 02 6923 8888
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VICTORIA
Living and working in Victoria
Hugging the tip of the Australian east coast, Victoria is Australia’s second-smallest state, covering 227,600 square kilometres - roughly the size of the British Isles. Packed into such a compact area is a wealth of diverse regional areas and attractions, from sweeping coastline and pristine beaches to national parks and forests teeming with wildlife to wineries, lakes and mountains offering skiing, climbing and hiking. Victoria’s capital, Melbourne, sits on the Yarra River and around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. Lauded for its sense of style and elegance, Melbourne boasts glamorous festivals and events, Australia’s best shopping, a lively passion for eating and drinking, and a flourishing interest in the arts. Melbourne and Victoria host some of Australia’s most prestigious events throughout the year, including the Spring Racing Carnival culminating in the Melbourne Cup in November, the Australian Open Tennis Championships in January, the Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix in March, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in March, and the International Arts Festival in October.
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HOT SPOTS Sovereign Hill
Great Southern Touring Route
One of Victoria’s most popular tourist attractions, Sovereign Hill is a fabulous re-creation of the hustle and bustle of life in Ballarat in the 1850s. You can pan for real gold, buy boiled sweets from the confectioner’s, ride in horse-drawn carriages, travel underground on a tour of the Red Hill Mine, or simply observe the working and living conditions that existed last century. At night, Sovereign Hill holds a spectacular 80-minute sound and light show on the 1854 Eureka Rebellion.
From cosmopolitan Melbourne, the Great Southern Touring Route travels south-west to Geelong, past the vineyards of the Bellarine Peninsula to the scenic Great Ocean Road. The coastline is famous for the imposing beauty of the Twelve Apostles, whale watching near Warrnambool and history of ships being wrecked in its treacherous waters.
Yarra Valley The Yarra Valley may only be under an hour from Melbourne, but you'll be rewarded for taking a few days to get to know it. Travel through rolling hills strung with vines, secluded natural valleys set against blue mountain backdrops and lush greenery and pastures, past towering trees and pristine rivers to verdant villages like Marysville and Warburton.
Phillip Island Enjoy holidays like they used to be on Phillip Island, just 90 minutes from Melbourne. Bring the family to the iconic Penguin Parade and stay for everything else; breathtaking natural beauty, myriad family attractions, energetic outdoor pursuits, roaring motor sports and fresh waterfront dining.
Twelve Apostles The Twelve Apostles are giant rock stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean and are the central feature of the rugged Port Campbell National Park. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly impressive views as the Twelve Apostles change colour from dark and foreboding in shadow to brilliant sandy yellow under a full sun.
Defence in Victoria The Defence presence in Victoria has reduced in recent years, however the State remains a vital command, administration, training and Defence industry location. NAVY HMAS Cerberus The primary role of HMAS Cerberus is Navy personnel training. With the establishment of four tri-Service schools, this role has been extended to training Army, Navy and Air Force personnel. Despite change, the charm of HMAS Cerberus remains. Its historic presence, heritage buildings, chapels, sports facilities and gardens create a pleasant training environment.
ARMY The regular Australian Army presence in Victoria is concentrated at Simpson Barracks in Watsonia, Melbourne home to: the Royal Australian Signals; the famous Puckapunyal training area; and the Albury-Wodonga Military Area, which includes the key support bases at Bandiana and Bonegillia with the Army Logistics Training Centre (ALTC). Puckapunyal is the home of the Land Warfare Development Centre (LWDC), Combat Arms Training Centre (CATC), including the School of Armour and School of Artillery and the Distribution Division.
AIR FORCE RAAF Base East Sale The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base East Sale, in Victoria’s Gippsland region, is the location of several specialist training schools including Central Flying School, Air Training Wing, Schools of Officers’ Training (OTS), Air Traffic Control, Aviation Warfare and Photographic Training Flight. RAAF Base East Sale is probably best known as home to the Roulettes aerobatic display team from Central Flying School. It is now also the location of Officer Training School. RAAF Base Williams The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base Williams comprises two bases 20kms southwest of Melbourne at Laverton and Point Cook. Each has a proud place in Australia’s military aviation history, Point Cook as the birthplace of the Air Force and oldest continually-operating military airfield in the world, and Laverton as the Air Force’s third base. The RAAF Museum is housed at Point Cook and the RAAF Central Band work from Laverton. The two bases were merged into one in 1999 and the main function of the two bases now is training.
EVENTS Australian Open 13 - 26 January 2014
Melbourne International Comedy Festival 25 March - 20 April 2014
The world’s best tennis players kick off their year in Melbourne, with 2 weeks of tennis excellence held at Melbourne Park. Tennis great Pete Sampras will make a rare appearance at the Australian Open in 2014 to present the men’s trophy, 20 years since his first tennis success. The prize pool is bigger again in 2014, with a total prize pool of $33m. The Australian Open is a must-see sporting event, that blends the fun and enjoyment of tennis with social and cultural attributes which celebrate our love of the great outdoors.
Autumn looks totally foolish with the 2014 Melbourne International Comedy Festival rolling around again throughout March and April – the greatest comedy caper in the Southern Hemisphere. The Comedy Festival doesn’t come cheap on talent, but the tickets are. There’s even an extensive free program to suit the most fiscally challenged of punters. Great value laughs are dished out by the most popular of local comics and some very special international guests - from stand-up to theatre, music, film and even visual art.
Melbourne Food & Wine Festival 28 February - 16 March 2014 Each year in March the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival unveils a world-class program of more than 250 events - a true expression of Melbourne’s infamous love of food and wine. The Festival spills through restaurant doors, down laneways, up onto rooftops, into bustling foodie precincts and deep into picturesque wine country. Entering its 22nd year, the Festival’s prestigious reputation attracts the world’s biggest culinary and wine personalities to its door to participate in a program that also showcases Victoria’s own celebrated chefs, restaurateurs, winemakers, sommeliers, producers and artisans. The theme for the 2014 event is WATER. Be inspired, spill your secrets around a table of forraged feasts, learn how to make it or bake it, and pay tribute to the joys of bringing your kitchen garden to your kitchen table.
Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix 13 - 16 March 2014 The 2014 Formula 1(tm) Australian Grand Prix is the country’s premier sporting event and offers an action-packed extravaganza of on-track and off-track activities for people of all ages to enjoy. Besides a stellar line-up of elite motor racing, a host of other offerings will keep you entertained. Set in the stunning surrounds of picturesque Albert Park and offering striking views of Melbourne’s skyline, the 2014 Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix will be a feast for the senses. If you’ve never witnessed the sensation of a Formula 1™ car racing before your very eyes at speeds of more than 300 km/h, make 2014 the year to do it.
Australian Football League (AFL) Finals Series - September 2014
Don’t miss the spectacular crescendo of 22 weeks of fantastic competition in the 2014 AFL Finals Series. Close to 95,000 fans pack the stands of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for the grand final while millions watch it worldwide on cable, satellite and free to air television. The final series offers sheer atmosphere and excitement and is a truly unique Australian experience.
Spring Racing Carnival 13 September - 15 November 2014 Enjoy the world’s greatest racing celebration over 50 glorious spring days in Melbourne. Fashions on the Field, fabulous hats, champagne in the car park, and the racing Cox Plate, Caulfield Cup, Derby Day, Oaks Day and of course the Melbourne Cup when all of Australia stops to party on the first Tuesday in November.
Vodafone Boxing Day Test 26-30 December 2014 Get out the zinc and the novelty hat and join up to 100,000 seasonal cricket fans for a sporting event that’s become a fixture in the festive season. The traditional Boxing Day Test at the MCG is the most anticipated cricket match each year in world cricket and this year will be no exception.
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VICTORIA Education VIC Victorian government schools are part of a strong and vibrant education system providing every child with the opportunity to thrive, learn and grow. In Victoria, most children attend primary school from Prep to Year 6, and secondary school from Year 7 to Year 12. School is compulsory for all Victorian children aged between 6 years and 17 years of age. Starting Kindergarten
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Labour Day
Monday March 10
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9 Melbourne Cup Tues November 4
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
January 28 to April 4 (10 weeks)
Term 2
April 22 to June 27 (10 weeks)
Term 3
July 14 to September 19 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 6 to December 19 (11 weeks)
Starting kindergarten is an important milestone in the lives of both you and your child. To be eligible to enrol in a funded kindergarten program, your child must be at least four years old by 30 April of the year they are starting kindergarten.
Primary School - Prep to Year 4 Children must be five years of age or older by 30 April of the year they start school. During the first years of learning, teachers aim to create a safe, happy environment where students are valued, praised, and encouraged. In Prep to Year 4, students are encouraged to make sense of the world around them through real-life experiences. The Prep to Year 4 curriculum emphasises the importance of reading, writing, spelling, essential maths and problem solving skills.
The Middle Years - Year 5 to 8 This period of schooling, referred to as the middle years, coincides with early adolescence. Schools have strategies in place for Years 5 to 8 to ensure students are challenged and their literacy and numeracy skills continue to grow. Middle years programs also support the development of relationships between primary schools and secondary schools, to ease the transition of students between the two.
Secondary School Enrolment During the first half of your child’s Year 6, you will be asked to nominate the secondary school your child will attend in Year 7. Parents of Year 6 students will be asked to complete enrolment forms for the secondary school of their choice early in the year.
School Leaving Age All students Australia-wide must complete Year 10 of study. After Year 10 and until they turn 17, students must be either in school fulltime, in approved education or training eg TAFE, traineeship or apprenticeship, or in fulltime paid employment. A number of options include part-time study and employment. If the young person is working part-time then he or she will need to combine their work with approved education or training. The minimum school leaving age has been raised to age 17 to ensure that school leavers have the opportunity to maximise their preparation for further education, training, employment or a combination of these. There is compelling Australian and international research which demonstrates that people with higher levels of schooling are more
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As part of the transition from Year 6 to Year 7, students participate in an orientation day. This may include a school tour, meeting fellow students and teachers, and taking part in special lessons and activities.
Years 9 to 10 In Year 9 students are beginning to see their future as adults. They are experiencing profound physical, social, emotional and intellectual development changes. Students in this stage often pass the age of compulsory attendance at school. They have a growing interest in the pathways they intend to pursue.
Years 10 to 12 In Years 10 to 12 students continue exploring pathways for the future to equip them for tertiary education or training and employment. VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education) - provides pathways to further study at university, TAFE and the world of work. VCAL (Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning) - is a hands-on option for Years 11 and 12 students, offering practical workrelated experience. Within VCAL students can undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship.
Leaving School before End of Year 12 Although there a host of benefits to completing Year 12, some students may feel that they are ready to move on from school before the end of Year 12, and who prefer to undertake an educational or training program provided by a TAFE institute or other registered training organisation. The school careers coordinator is best equipped to help a student explore the options and pathways open to him or her.
likely to make a successful transition to further education, training, or work. The research also demonstrates that early school leavers are two and a half times more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages and have poorer quality of life outcomes; and that those who do not leave school early generally enjoy enhanced life choices and better economic and social outcomes. Exemptions will only be granted where the principal considers that the student is a suitable candidate to complete his or her education through an apprenticeship or traineeship, that the student has written permission from his / her parents for this to occur, and that the employer agrees to notify the Department of Education and Training in writing through the school principal if the apprenticeship or traineeship is abandoned or cancelled before the student turns 17.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Living and working in South Australia Adelaide is the capital of South Australia and is the fifth largest city in Australia. It is renowned for its well planned city streets with parks and gardens strategically placed throughout the city – ask the 1.1 million Adelaide residents, and they would say it is definitely a livable city. Among the Defence population, Adelaide is also known as one of the Defence capitals of Australia with a large proportion of Army, Airforce and Navy members calling it home. There are three main Army Barracks: Keswick, Warradale and Woodside, all within 40 minutes of the CBD. The Navy Headquarters are also located at Keswick Barracks and RAAF Base Edinburgh is located north of the city in the Salisbury council area. The Defence Science & Technology Organisation is also located at Salisbury adjacent to the RAAF Base, approximately 30km north of the city. Defence Housing Australia (DHA) manages over 1200 homes for Defence members and their families in the South Australian capital. Houses are located mostly in the northern part of the city and have first rate access to schools, transport, shopping facilities and recreational activities. They are almost exclusively freestanding, single-storey homes appropriately sized for families, averaging 400600 sq. metres. With such a large Defence population in Adelaide, there are lots of support services for Defence families. In addition to Defence Families Australia and the Defence Community Organisation, the Woodside Defence Family Association and North East Defence Community Group offer facilities and community programs such as a Community House, Craft group, walking groups, playgroups and social clubs. Adelaide is a well planned city, with the CBD set in a square grid bound by North, South, East and West Terraces. The city is surrounded by parklands, the most notable being the
Botanic Gardens which are located off North Terrace. North Terrace is Adelaide’s cultural boulevard. It contains many excellent examples of early Australian architecture which include the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, the University of South Australia, and Adelaide’s oldest church, the Anglican Holy Trinity Church. Just out of the city are Adelaide’s beaches. There is a laid back feel with alfresco dining at sidewalk cafes and markets, considered by some the best dining in Adelaide. A little further inland from the northern suburbs are the world famous Barossa and Clare Valley wine regions. One of the best ways to see Adelaide is to travel the Linear Park Trail. Following the Torrens River, with bitumen trails winding through parklands, you can cycle or walk from the base of the Adelaide Hills in the west to Henley Beach in the east. Take a picnic lunch or stop along the way at one of the many cafes or pubs adjacent to the route. Whether you want to be entertained, get out and party, or just relax with the family, Adelaide has something for you.
Wine regions of SA Some of the most famous wine regions in the world are dotted across South Australia - from Shiraz in the Barossa, Riesling in the Clare Valley, and the big reds of the Coonawarra, your wine experience will be as rich and seamless as the wines. You can visit nine distinct wine regions within an hour and a half of the Adelaide city centre - Barossa and Eden Valley, Adelaide Plains, Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale, Southern Fleurieu, Currency Creek, Langhorne Creek and Clare Valley. The Barossa, just an hour’s drive from Adelaide is known throughout the world as one of Australia’s leading wine regions, boasting more than 60 wineries. Established in 1842 by immigrants from England and Germany, the region’s rich heritage is reflected in architecture, food and internationally renowned wines. The Clare Valley is considered one of the most picturesque wine regions in South Australia. Less than two hours from Adelaide, the region boasts more than 40 cellar doors, most within 20 kilometres of the main town of Clare. The McLaren Vale District, just 40 minutes south of Adelaide, was born in 1839 (the first vines planted in 1838) and since that time the McLaren Vale region has become one of Australia’s premier wine-producing districts, particularly renowned for its full-bodied reds.
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SOUTH AUSTRALIA Defence in South Australia South Australia is home to a number of major defence industries and Defence establishments. Facilities in the Adelaide area include most of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), the Osborne construction and maintenance site for conventionally powered submarines at Port Adelaide, the Defence Technology Precinct adjacent to DSTO and RAAF Base Edinburgh, and Woomera Rocket Range in the State’s far north.
EVENTS Oakbank Easter Racing Carnival 19 - 21 April 2014
Santos Tour Down Under 19 - 26 January 2014 The Santos Tour Down Under cycling race in Adelaide attracts some of the biggest names in world cycling - the action is always exhilarating, the atmosphere intoxicating and the stars electrifying. It’s the first stop in world cycling. From beaches to vineyards, the six-stage Santos Tour Down Under is a worldclass event that showcases the speed, skill and spectacle that is professional cycling.
The Oakbank Easter Racing Carnival is like no other in the world. It rivals the Melbourne Cup in size and colour and its 70,000 strong crowd annually on Easter Monday makes it the biggest picnic race meeting on Earth. Easter Saturday attracts a crowd of approximately 45,000 and sets the scene for a fantastic carnival. Set in the picturesque Adelaide Hills just 25 minutes from Adelaide this race meeting is a great way to get together with family and friends over Easter. Plenty of great food and refreshments, or bring your own picnic.
Adelaide Festival of Arts 28 February –16 March 2014 Held in the warm South Australian autumn, the Adelaide Festival of Arts is one of the world’s greatest arts festivals. Make the most of a jam-packed program across every genre from opera, theatre, cabaret, dance, classical and contemporary music, and over 250 performances, events and exhibitions in 33 venues throughout Adelaide.
Adelaide Fringe 14 February – 16 March 2014
NAVY Navy Headquarters South Australia (NHQ-SA) is located in Keswick Barracks, just on the southern outskirts of Adelaide, approximately 25 minutes’ travel from Port Adelaide and 40 minutes’ travel from the Submarine Construction Facility at Osborne. A small Naval Yard is located at the Birkenhead Naval Yard in Port Adelaide, which houses Diving Team 9.
ARMY Army Headquarters South Australia is currently located at Keswick Barracks, with military establishments at Hampstead and Warradale. The 16th Air Defence Regiment is located at Woodside Barracks in the Adelaide Hills, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Adelaide city. South Australia has a large Army contingent with units all over the state including 7RAR located at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
AIR FORCE The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base Edinburgh – along with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) – is located on the site of the Salisbury wartime munitions factory. The RAAF Base today consists of operational squadrons and support units. It is primarily home to 92 Wing’s AP-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft that conduct surveillance operations throughout Australia’s airspace, Aerospace Operational Support Group that conducts research and development.
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The largest Fringe Festival in the southern hemisphere, the Adelaide Fringe offers a huge twist of quirky fun and frivolity including the legendary opening night party. With more than hundreds of shows and thousands of artists taking part each year, Adelaide Fringe is not to be missed.
WOMADelaide 7 - 10 March 2014 WOMAD is the World of Music, Arts & Dance held outdoors in Adelaide's beautiful Botanic Park. WOMADelaide began in 1992 and has gone on to become one of Australia's favourite festivals, not only because of the unique and extraordinary music, but also because of its beautiful and friendly vibe. Families are welcome (kids 12 and under get free entry) and the diversity of the audience is almost as astounding as the line-up. Bring a hat and sunscreen, and get set to dance.
Clipsal 500 27 February - 2 March 2014 The Clipsal 500 Adelaide V8 Supercar event is an adrenalin-charged motor race held in Adelaide every year. Four days of V8 Supercar action, extreme machines, eight racing categories, grid girls, on-track stunts, spectacular air shows, motoring displays and the best support race program in the nation.
Clare Valley Gourmet Weekend 17 - 19 May 2014 Wear your most elegant (and stretchy) clothes and indulge yourself with a weekend away in one of the world's premier food and wine destinations. On Saturday you'll literally get a taste of things to come with samples of the year's vintage (a privilege usually reserved for vintners). On Gourmet Sunday, sit down to a degustation lunch or vie for a spot beside a fire to eat handmade sausages and roasted tomatoes while being entertained by a swinging jazz band.
Bank SA McLaren Vale Sea & Vines 8 - 9 June 2014
The McLaren Vale BankSA Sea and Vines Food & Wine Festival is a celebration of the unique flavours of this generous region. Gifted with a Mediterranean climate, rich vineyards and a breathtaking coastline, it’s a place where visitors can literally taste the difference. Add a mix of Adelaide’s top bands playing classic blues and funky jazz, set against a backdrop of the Mt Lofty Ranges and McLaren Vale vines - it’s a gourmet delight on the June long weekend.
Bay To Birdwood Classic Run 28 September 2014 On the last Sunday in September more than 1,500 historic cars and motorbikes line up to play their part in perpetuating the legend of the Bay to Birdwood. The first vehicles start arriving at Adelaide Shores at 6am and the excitement is palpable as these marvellous veteran, vintage and early classic vehicles ready themselves for the Bay to Birdwood Run. It takes approximately one and a half hours for all entrant vehicles to depart - come and give them a send off they won’t forget!
Education SA From 2014, there will be a new start date for preschool and school children in South Australia. This will be the first day of Term 1. If your child turns four before May 1, they will start preschool on the first day of Term One in that year. If your child turns four on or after May 1, they will start preschool on the first day of Term One the following year. If your child turns five before May 1, they will start school on the first day of Term One in that year. If your child turns five on or after May 1, they will start school on the first day of Term One the following year. The new start date will mean that all children will have four terms of preschool and four terms of Reception.
Reception to Year 12 The school year begins in late January and is divided into four terms of approximately ten weeks. Most children usually attend four terms of preschool and then begin school in Reception when they are five. Reception is the name given to the first year of schooling. Students attend Primary school from Reception to Year 7, and then Secondary school from Years 8 to 12.
Choosing a Secondary school School districts have been established for most metropolitan secondary schools and some secondary schools in major country centres. In most cases, where a student lives outside of a declared secondary school district, their district school is the nearest school measured in a straight line from the student’s home address. Once you have decided which secondary school you wish your child to attend, you will need to complete an Application for Enrolment available from your child’s primary school
principal. You may apply for your district school or you may name up to three other secondary schools in order of preference.
SACE Years 10-12 students study towards the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). To complete SACE students complete about two years of full-time study which most students spread over three years. There are two stages to the SACE - Stage 1 which most students do in Year 11, and Stage 2 which is completed in Year 12. Each subject or course successfully completed earns credits towards the SACE, with a minimum of 200 credits required for students to gain the certificate. The Personal Learning Plan is offered by most schools in Year 10, and is usually the only SACE subject that students study during that year. In addition to the Personal Learning Plan, students must complete a full year of English subjects and a semester of Maths in Stage 1. During Stage 2, students study four fullyear subjects in addition to the compulsory Research Project subject. The Research Project is a one semester subject which allows every student to explore an area of interest in depth. For compulsory requirements, students need to gain a grade C or better at Stage 1 and a grade C- or better at Stage 2. The compulsory requirements are Personal Learning Plan (10 credits) Literacy - at least 20 credits from a range of English subjects or courses Numeracy - at least 10 credits from a range of mathematics subjects or courses Research Project - an in-depth major project (10 credits) Other Stage 2 subjects totalling at least 60 credits. The remaining 90 credits can be gained through additional Stage 1 or Stage 2 subjects or Board-recognised courses such as VET or community learning.
HOT SPOTS Adelaide Central Market The Adelaide Central Market has been operating for 140 years, and with over 80 stalls under one roof, it is a hub of activity with traders, artisans and shoppers who share a passion for food. The range of fresh food is extensive - fruit & vegetables, meat & poultry, seafood, gourmet cheeses, bread, cakes and more. You will want to return time and again for the delicious aromas, the vivid colours and atmosphere of an international melting pot of cultures.
National Wine Centre Looking over the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, the National Wine Centre is an architectural treat, but what it holds inside is the real attraction. Here you can discover winemaking from the ground up, take an interactive discovery tour which showcases the complete wine experience, and finish at the Concourse Cafe with wines to taste or purchase while enjoying a meal from their superb a la carte menu.
Adelaide Zoo Get up close and personal with the animals at Adelaide Zoo. Adelaide Zoo offers a variety of behind the scenes tours - experience a unique opportunity to meet the pandas, assist in feeding the orangutans, or spend a few hours with the Children’s Zoo keeper - a fantastic way for kids to experience a range of animals in an encounter they will treasure for a lifetime!
Senior secondary students may incorporate a school based apprenticeship or traineeship in their final two years of schooling, whilst studying towards their SACE.
ICAN - Flexible learning options ICAN offers flexible learning options to 12-19 year old students who are enrolled in school but at risk of leaving early, attending school but not actively participating in their education, or who are leaving school early and are not pursuing employment or further education. ICAN students work with a school coordinator, case manager or youth worker and parents to identify their strengths, special interests and areas where they need support. This information is used to develop an individual learning plan that can lead to learning options outside school, access to subjects of specific interest, support from other agencies - eg youth and community services, further education, training and apprenticeships and employment opportunities.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Adelaide Cup
Monday March 10
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9 Labour Day
Monday October 6
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
January 28 to April 11 (11 weeks)
Term 2
April 28 to July 4 (10 weeks)
Term 3
July 21 to September 26 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 13 to December 12 (9 weeks)
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WESTERN AUSTRALIA Defence in Western Australia Defence in Western Australia is located mainly in the populated southwest of the State with an increasing presence around the Pilbara and North West Shelf.
NAVY
Living and working in Western Australia The big variety of landscapes and climates in Western Australia means there is always plenty of sunshine, making it a perfect year-round destination. Western Australia is a land blessed with spectacular diversity where the deep reds of ancient interior rock formations contrast with the sparkling blue of the Indian and Southern Oceans and the lush greenery of the stunning southern regions. The capital, Perth, is Australia’s western gateway. Perth offers an easy-going lifestyle and the beautiful Swan River and inner-city parks add to the relaxed, natural feel. Dual use paths make it easy to walk, ride or skate a circuit around the Swan River, and for water sports enthusiasts, sailing, windsurf and canoe hire is available. Perth is a very safe, liveable, vibrant city with a diverse community. Whether a tourist or resident, there are a wide range of events, attractions and cultural activities to experience. The weather is fantastic, the beaches are clean and uncrowded, the spring wildflowers are stunning, and the city itself is located in a postcard perfect setting.
HMAS Stirling is located at Garden Island, which has an area of approximately 1,270 hectares. The naval base provides support to Western Australian home-ported units and to ships and submarines visiting the area. Key members of the Defence establishment in Stirling include the Headquarters of the Australian Submarine Squadron; Submarine Training and Systems Centre; the Australian Clearance Diving Team 4; and the ANZAC and Collins Class sustainment offices.
ARMY The only ARA unit in Western Australia is the elite Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) located at Campbell Barracks, Swanbourne in Perth’s beachside western suburbs. Service in SASR requires the highest commitment of personnel to pass the gruelling ‘selection’ course, followed by intensive, specialised training in Special Forces roles. Army Reserve units include the 13th Brigade and Regional Force Surveillance Units (RFSU). Headquarters 13th Brigade is located at Irwin Barracks, Karrakatta, situated between Fremantle and Perth.
AIR FORCE The Royal Australian Air Force’s RAAF Base Pearce is 35kms north of Perth. It is the only operational Air Force base in the west and is primarily home to 2 Flying Training School and 79 Squadron. RAAF Base Pearce is also home to The Republic of Singapore’s 130 Squadron. The RAAF maintains RAAF Bases Learmonth and Curtin (near Derby) as bare bases ready to be activated when needed.
HOT SPOTS Broome and the Kimberley Coast Just a two-and-a-half hour flight from Perth, Broome is an exotic pearling town offering some deliciously indulgent eco-resorts dotted across its spectacular landscape. Broome’s Cable Beach, with 22 kilometres of white sand, kissed by warm, crystal waters, is justifiably world famous and the ideal place to watch the sunset on a balmy, tropical night.
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From fiery red ochre cliffs contrasting with bright turquoise waters to pearl diving sagas and dinosaur footprints - the history of Broome is as captivating as the scenery. The town’s multicultural mix was shaped by a romantic pearling history when Japanese, Filipino and Malay pearl divers arrived in droves seeking their fortune. Today, thanks to Broome’s unpolluted waters, South Sea pearls are among the most coveted in the world. Pearl showrooms line the streets of Chinatown - splash out on a pearl (or two!) as the ultimate memento of your trip. This is also where you’ll find art galleries, shops and cafes - the perfect place for some retail therapy. Broome is one of only three towns in the Kimberley region with a population of more than 2,000 people, and the Kimberley area was one of the earliest settled parts in Australia.
Margaret River Margaret River was originally a chilled out surfie town, but has evolved into the ultimate smorgasbord of fine wine, good food and spectacular scenery – just a three-and-a-half hour drive south of Perth. No trip to Western Australia is complete without a pit stop at Margaret River. There’s a fine supply of world-class wineries, boutique breweries, and restaurants overlooking sweeping vineyards and surf breaks. The wine is definitely top notch - the region produces less than one per cent of Australian wine, but wait for it - over 15 per cent of the country’s premium wine. Teamed with a thriving arts scene - there’s just about an art or craft gallery on every corner - it’s the perfect place to soak up some West Australian culture and pick up a souvenir or two.
Education WA The Department of Education and Training, Western Australia provides comprehensive education for your child from kindergarten to Year 12. Kindergarten Kindergarten offers great opportunities for your little one to find out what school life will be like. Although attendance at kindergarten is not compulsory most children attend because parents understand that it helps give their child the best start to school. Children may start in kindergarten if he or she turns four years old by 30 June in that year. Kindergarten is part-time, offering 15 hours each week. In some schools, children attend for some full days and some half days each week, while in others they attend only half days or only full days.
Pre-primary Children who are turning five years old by 30 June can start Pre-primary at the beginning of that year. Pre-primary is five full days a week. Pre-primary is the first compulsory year of schooling and your child will attend five full days a week. Children usually attend the school closest to where they live. Most schools start between 8.30am and 9.00am and finish between 2.30pm and 3.00pm.
Years 1 to 7 Primary school starts in Year 1. Students must turn six years of age by June 30 of the year they start Year 1. In the early years of primary school the main focus is on literacy and numeracy so that students learn to read and write, and understand mathematics. Students also develop knowledge and skills in science and
technology through programs which build on their natural curiosity and inquiring minds. In 2015 Year 7 children will move to Secondary school, to align with the introduction of the Australian Curriculum.
Secondary Secondary school starts at Year 8 with most children beginning during the year they turn 13. There are some middle schools where students start in Year 7 during the year they turn 12. The school leaving age is 17 years. Ultimately, the school leaving age legislation doesn’t mean that students have to stay in school full-time, but states that children must participate in a range of pathways including schooling, training, an apprenticeship or approved employment, with the option of combining part-time training with education.
Training in School Students in Year 11 and 12 can start an apprenticeship or traineeship while still at school. Studying for the Western Australia Certificate of Education can be combined with training and work. Generally three days a week are spent at school, with one day training and one day at work. There are three study options: allowing the student to try out different jobs in an industry they are interested in which can progress to an apprenticeship; completing a traineeship qualification while still at school; or starting apprenticeship training on a part-time basis at school which can be continued full-time after leaving school.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Labour Day
Monday March 3
Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Foundation Day Monday June 2 Queen’s Birthday Mon September 29
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
February 3 to April 11 (10 weeks)
Term 2
April 28 to July 4 (10 weeks)
Term 3
July 21 to September 26 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 13 to December 18 (10 weeks)
EVENTS Hyundai Hopman Cup 28 December 2013 - 4 January 2014
Perth International Arts Festival 7 Feb - 1 March 2014
Quit Forest Rally 4 - 6 April 2014
The Hyundai Hopman Cup has been serving up the very best in international tennis for many years, and as testament to the prestige and popularity that the tournament enjoys globally, the Cup consistently attracts the world's best tennis players to Perth. To be held in the brand new, state-of-the-art Perth Arena, the 2014 Cup will showcase tennis superstars such as Sam Stosur, Bernard Tomic, Agnieszka Radwanska, Jerzy Janowicz, Petra Kvitova and Eugenie Bouchard.
The Perth Festival has grown since 1953 to become a festival of international standing. It is the oldest multi-arts festival in the southern hemisphere, and annually offers some of the world’s best theatre, music, film, visual arts, street arts, literature and free community events. The three week festival attracts more than 300,000 patrons to Perth as well as to the Great Southern region.
Western Australia’s round of the Australian Rally Championship attracts Australia's best cars and drivers, including the best classic cars and motorbikes, making it a weekend of Motor Sport Extravaganza. Spectators are able to get up close to the action on the Burswood foreshore and throughout Nannup.
Busselton Jetty Swim 8 - 9 February 2014
Sculpture by the Sea 7 - 24 March 2014 Sculpture by the Sea returns for its 8th annual exhibition, held over 20 days at Perth’s iconic Cottesloe Beach. It is one of Perth’s largest free to the public events which transforms Cottesloe beach into a sculpture park. Over 70 sculptures are on display artists from across Australia and the world. It is a big winner with the kids, for whom the sculptures become a giant fantasy land, among which they have a ball.
Held at Market Square Park, Subiaco, UnWined promotes fine Western Australian wines and gourmet foods to treat visitors to an indulgent experience of the state’s produce in the magnificent Subiaco district. Enjoy the day in casual surroundings, sample some tastings and relax to busker styled entertainment.
The Busselton Jetty Swim is a world-class 3.6 kilometre ocean water swim around the iconic Busselton Jetty in the south west of Western Australia. Since 1996, the swim has grown from a local event to an internationally recognized event attracting in excess of 1,000 competitors. The Swim is open to swimmers of all abilities, from first-time novice entrants, singly or in teams, to experienced professional competitors.
UnWined WA 25 - 26 October 2014
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TASMANIA HOT SPOTS Port Arthur Historic Site
Living and working in Tasmania
Just under an hour’s drive from Hobart, Port Arthur is the site of one of the oldest convict settlements in Australia. Established initially as a timber station in 1830, it quickly grew in importance within the penal system of the colonies. During its time, Port Arthur housed over 1200 prisoners, 128 guards and their families, and supported an infrastructure made up of penitentiary, prison, hospital, school, and industries of shipbuilding, shoemaking, smithing, brickmaking, and timber and flour mills. The last convict was shipped out in 1877.
Separated from mainland Australia by the 240 km stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania is a land apart – a place of wild and beautiful landscapes; friendly, welcoming people; a pleasant, temperate climate; a rich history; and a relaxed island lifestyle. Tasmania has an enviable lifestyle and a diverse natural environment ranging from temperate rainforest and mountains on the west coast to sandy beaches on the east coast. The capital Hobart, and the northern centre of Launceston, have all the services and facilities of thriving modern cities combined with easy access to beaches, rivers, lakes and national parks. Major Defence facilities in Tasmania are located at Anglesea Barracks in Hobart, Derwent Barracks at Dowsing Point and Paterson Barracks in Launceston.
Education TAS Government schools in Tasmania provide three levels of education: Kindergarten-Yr 6, High School Yrs 7-10 and Senior Secondary Yrs 11-12.
Starting school age A child may start kindergarten at the age of four provided their birthday was on or before 1 January in the year they start. A child who has turned five on or by 1 January in any year must start school in that year.
Leaving school age Young people are required to complete the school year during which they turn 16. Young people who have completed Year 10 or have turned 16 are required to participate in further education or training for a further two years or until they have gained a certificate III vocational qualification, or until they have turned 17. Most students continue with education or training past the age of 16 by attending senior secondary college for Years 11 and 12, or enrolling in vocational education and training through a registered training organisation such as TAFE Tasmania, or undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship. Most employers require Year 12 or higher qualification, and there are plenty of pathways to continuing education in Tasmania.
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The facilities are shared by Army, Navy and Air Force. Anglesea Barracks is the Headquarters for Defence in Tasmania, with Army, Navy and Air Force headquarters all located within the barracks. 16 Field Battery, an Army Reserve Field Artillery Battery, is the only artillery unit in Tasmania. It is the oldest continually serving battery within the Royal Australian Artillery, with its headquarters located at Paterson Barracks, Launceston, Tasmania and a depot also located at Derwent Barracks, Glenorchy, Tasmania.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2014 Australia Day
Monday Jan 27
Eight Hours Day Monday March 10 Good Friday
Friday April 18
Easter Monday
Monday April 21
Anzac Day
Friday April 25
Queen’s Birthday Monday June 9
SCHOOL TERM DATES 2014 Term 1
February 5 to April 17 (11 weeks)
Term 2
May 5 to July 4 (9 weeks)
Term 3
July 21 to September 26 (10 weeks)
Term 4
October 13 to December 18 (10 weeks)
Salamanca Place Salamanca Place is Hobart’s favourite hang out. It’s where the hip meets the homespun and everything in between. Salamanca is lined with a long row of simple Georgian sandstone warehouses built in the 1830s. These mellow northfacing buildings once stored grain, wool, whale oil, apples and imported goods from around the world. Nowadays, you can wander under the heavy stone arches to find craft and design shops, jewellers, coffee shops, restaurants, the Peacock Theatre, subterranean bookshops, outdoor gear, and fashion boutiques or you can climb the stairs to the Salamanca Arts Centre. Each Saturday at the Salamanca Markets you can buy anything from a handmade wooden toy or a hand-spun, hand-knitted sweater to fresh fruit and vegetables or a 50-year-old china plate. Across the road there are green lawns and park benches shaded by plane trees that twinkle with lights in the evenings. Every Friday night from 5.30 to 7.30pm, the Salamanca Arts Centre Courtyard rocks to the sounds of Rektango. The band sets every toe tapping as they play gypsy, jazz and swing music. Mulled wine, beer and soft drinks to buy and when the months are cooler you can keep warm around winter braziers.
looking forward Is it time to stay, or time to plan to go? A career in the Australian Defence Force can be one of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences in your life, with the excitement and satisfaction of being well trained and engaging in adventurous pursuits unique to the ADF, but eventually everyone needs to plan to move on – into ‘civvy’ street.
lookingFORWARD PUBLISHER’S DISCLAIMER In Looking Forward we publish information from a range of sources, as a general guide for people to take action appropriate to their individual situation. The views are not those of the Department of Defence and we advise everyone to consult with relevant Service authorities on exact benefits and conditions before taking any action. Independent advice on business and financial management is also advisable before making any decisions, financial or otherwise. That said, we hope the articles provide valuable information for those with the ambition to succeed – and we wish you every success with your chosen career path and eventual resettlement into civilian life, whenever that may occur. John Armstrong, Editor Photos: Courtesy Department of Defence Published by Strike Publications Pty Ltd PO Box 124 Ipswich Queensland 4305 T: 07 3282 9019 F: 07 3812 3233 E: editor@strikepublications.com.au www.strikepublications.com.au
Unfortunately, few equivalent jobs in the civilian sector offer opportunities ranging from basic employment roles through to technology based assignments, with the prospect of deploying overseas on combat related missions, peace-keeping and security related roles, so the transition into the civilian world can be challenging. Career choices within the ADF are many, with opportunities to advance through the ranks and across various career streams. There are also opportunities to learn a trade, undertake tertiary level training and generally qualify for most professional pursuits. So the question is whether remaining in the Defence Force is a better option, at least until you are better prepared for the move. DefenceLife aims to provide information of a general nature across a number of areas related to maximising your career successes and positioning yourself for future opportunities. Eventually, every member of the ADF will transition to a new working and family life in the civilian community. This may involve a move into the Defence Reserves, Defence Industry, starting a totally new career, establishing an own business, or just kicking back in retirement. Information on how you can plan and take informed action can enable such transition to occur as seamlessly as practicable while maximising your career and personal advantages. There’s little doubt that effective planning and action during one’s career while in the Defence Forces pays off when advancing through your military career, and when that day of separation finally arrives you want to be well prepared for what lies ahead. It is this planning leading to productive action that is vitally important.
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lookingFORWARD
Managing career choices - plan to stay, but also plan to go. In any industry, including the Defence Forces, there’s always a vexed question for employers: what if I train them and they go… but what if I don’t train them and they decide to stay? Similarly, Defence personnel need to ask themselves: what if I plan to go and I stay… but what if I plan to stay, and I have to go? The former case enables individuals more choices, as they have planned for the inevitable but are also well prepared for the present. The latter may find an unplanned transition confronting and have a poor outcome.
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The training and retention of key staff is paramount in most organisations. For the employer it means better productivity leading to improved profitability, and for the employee it can mean greater rewards for longer productive service, plus greater opportunities for advancement and remuneration. There’s little doubt that those who make the most of their current career while planning and preparing for their next career are inevitably the most successful. Deciding to leave the Defence Forces is clearly a major step in anyone’s life, but one that is also clearly inevitable. This can either be a natural, seamless progression to a new career or retirement, or it can be fraught with frustration and disappointment. By committing to that inevitable separation long before it’s time to go, and by planning to go on your own terms, the transition can be both rewarding and beginning a new lease of life. The sooner this process begins the sooner you will have the options to stay, or to go on to bigger and better things. One of the greatest challenges facing Defence personnel is to transition to civilian employment at a level equal to or better than their relative position within the Armed Forces. For example, the tank commander or the armoured vehicle driver may not find a directly equivalent civilian position, but that should not preclude securing a job that is equal in skill level and standing to their military job. Both soldiers have training in electronics; they manage a highly complex weapons system; they possess man management training; and they think globally in military tactics. The aim, therefore, would be to use this high level of military training as a base for supplementary training to bridge the gap between military and civilian industry qualifications. In a way, this means managing two careers: your current Defence Force career and your intended post-Service career. Obviously, this gives you options when leaving the Services but it also enhances your career while serving in the ADF. It’s not unusual for soldiers, sailors and airmen/airwomen who take on extra study and work experience to find success in rank and career progression while in the Services, then separate from the Defence Forces and immediately be recruited by a civilian employer. People with qualifications and experience that are transferable to the civilian sector are a valuable ‘commodity’.
Immediate and Future Circumstances An analysis of your immediate circumstances may clear your mind as to your current position: why you are leaving, and how well prepared you are to leave the relative security of a job and a lifestyle that you may have experienced for a number of years. Searching questions can also reveal what needs to be done urgently and what can be done as time progresses. Typical questions leading to reappraisal of the situation or a specific course of action include: - Why are you seeking discharge, and are temporary circumstances forcing an earlier than ideal separation? - Will you be seeking re-employment, and what are the prospects for a new career? Somewhere to live and work is obviously a major consideration and one that may have the greatest impact on your post-Service lifestyle, so you may need to consider: - Why you have decided or plan to settle in a particular area, and does that suit your family? - What are the employment opportunities for you/your partner/your children in this area? - What are the demands of your family in the areas of education and lifestyle pursuits? Your financial situation is another major factor in successfully transitioning to civilian life and one that often receives less attention than it deserves. You may need to know: - What exactly are your present and future financial positions in terms of assets, cash resources and borrowings? - How much money will you need to live, and will your new net income meet those costs? - Will tax erode your pension entitlements, and have you investigated minimising your tax? - Will you work full-time, part-time or undertake volunteer work, and how does this impact on your take-home pay?
Personality Assessment Job opportunities in the civilian sector are very different from the potentially combat-related duties experienced in the military and, as such, may require a different approach to interaction both at the employee and management levels. Within the military an authoritative and single-minded attitude fits with potentially life-threatening activities undertaken, but a more conciliatory and cooperative attitude may be required in a civilian job. This can lead to confusion and frustration for ex-military people when trying to ‘fit in’ within the new organization, as what worked well in the military may not go over well in a civilian workforce. A degree of self-analysis may raise some human resources issues that need to be considered in preparation for that civilian job: - What type of person are you, and do you have the personality, tolerance, relationship and skills to ‘fit in’? - Are you seeking a position of responsibility, and are you prepared to take on that position? - Are you ambitious, are you prepared to take on the associated workload and responsibility? - How well do you cope with competition, and do you have the skills to succeed? - What is your attitude to seniority and your acceptance of what may be either a higher or lower position than you held in the military? - How do you view unionism, and are you prepared to deal with what may be unfamiliar territory?
Employment Potential
commensurate with existing remuneration. Many people, including military personnel, think of their remuneration in terms of base salary rather than taking into account benefits such as Service Allowance and generous employer contributions into Military Super Have you critically assessed your prospective net income in a new career, taking into account how Service-related benefits such as Service allowance, subsidised married quarter rent, subsidised home loan and other benefits add monetary value to your remuneration package? Have you compared the long-term benefits of Military Super entitlements with that offered in civilian employment. This can be an important consideration for those planning to separate without long term entitlements. Do you intend to continue in your current type of employment, and what changes are needed to prepare you for the civilian equivalent of your current job? Do you hope to change the nature of your employment, and have you completed training required to be competitive? What skills do you have, and how can those skills be translated into civilian qualifications? Skills obtained through Service training courses and employment are often ‘undersold’ by Defence Force personnel. You may need to seek assistance in expressing your Service skills in civilian terms.
Market Evaluation Many military jobs have a link to civilian job types, but many are in highly specialised areas such as communications, air transport and avionics. In deciding when to leave the Defence Force a critical assessment of your qualifications may include the following: - Is there a broad ‘market’ for your skills, particularly in the area in which you wish to live, and will this impact on that decision? - Do you need to expand your skills and transform those skills into more of a civilian industry context, and is further education and training necessary to achieve this goal. - Is your current military position too specialised for the civilian job market, and do you need to undertake additional or bridging training to redress that situation. What use can you make of friends, newspapers, the public service, or people you know in the job market in gauging the demand for your skills and experience?
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CRICOS No. 00001K – OCTOBER 2013 – BUS130820
As a former Chief of the Defence Force, General Peter Cosgrove put it, “Defence Force personnel should use the confidence they have shown in the Defence Force to impress a potential employer with the fact that he or she is getting a very fine Australian with energy, excellent experience and world-class training.” Even if the idea of managing two careers is a little confronting there is help available through a combination of Defence websites, unit training and resettlement officers, along with civilian organisations specialising in career management services. It’s certainly in the Defence Forces’ interests to support any individual’s education and training ambitions as this, in turn, increases the skill level of the organization as a whole. Before embarking on this path to an eventual new career, lifestyle and financial goals some self-analysis of your situation may help to show the way ahead, not only when you are seriously contemplating discharge or resignation but also in the initial stages of planning for the future with your feet firmly planted in the Defence Forces.
Of critical importance, especially to those not entitled to longterm Military Super entitlements, may be gaining employment
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lookingFORWARD
Take careful aim at a post-ADF career Employment in a Defence-related industry or with a Defence service provider is an obvious career option for Defence personnel looking for a job outside the ADF, and one that retains a Defence connection. Surprisingly, the very changes in Defence culture since the emergence of outsourcing in the 1990s make a seamless transition into civilian Defence industries more problematic. Taking off the uniform on Friday and pulling on the contractor’s garb on Monday may not be as easy as it once was. The advice from industry HR officers is to use the ADF resettlement system to get trade and other competencies mapped, and make plans years before separation. Defence members will most likely need some form of gap training to transition into the civilian marketplace, and these problems will likely be exacerbated in the technical trades. The rise of outsourcing has removed many of the former competencies from Defenceowned engineering tasks. For example, the Air Force now conducts only flight-line level maintenance while deeper maintenance such as the overhaul of engines is outsourced. Beyond Defence, an F/A-18 expert does not become an Airbus 330 expert overnight, and it is getting more difficult for ADF personnel to transfer their technical skills immediately. Formal civilian equivalent engineering training is now considered imperative. Industry still wants skilled people coming out of the military because they are talented people who have commensurate skills, but they need to plan from a technical skills standpoint to minimise the amount of ‘gap’ training needed. Salary equalisation can also be an issue. ADF personnel are paid to do more than just core tasks, receiving remuneration that takes in account the total requirement of their service, but this is may not be the case in the civilian workforce. This can mean a reduction in takehome salary for a comparative civilian job and a consequent drop in expected lifestyle, which could well rule out a Defence service provider as an equivalent salary option for post ADF employment. ADF personnel also face competition from within the now evolved Defence service providers, with more companies now training their own apprentices. The result is that ADF members leaving the military are not only competing with other ex-Defence personnel for employment but also with staff who have progressed within the company. Companies may also have a policy of promoting from within first, and that is understandable, but this practice makes it harder for relatively senior ADF personnel to
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obtain equivalent level positions in industry. Senior ADF personnel such as warrant officers and flight sergeants who are managers of personnel may have to take a couple of steps downwards, and that may not be what they want to do. That said, Defence service providers still want people who can successfully negotiate the change from Defence to civilian work culture. Understandably, Defence has to foster a workplace that is sympathetic to the many demands placed on its people. The ready supply of health facilities, an environment that places a high priority on the welfare of families as well as the systematic development of the careers of its people can lead to a level of dependence. Everyday things such as Mess culture just evaporate when you get out. The ‘bottom line’ is that Defence contractors are in business for profit and a return to shareholders, so there’s more drive to keep your nose to the grindstone, and some ex-military people don’t take very well to that, after the relatively ‘protected’ environment of military service. To call the ADF a “protected environment” when there’s the potential for personnel to go into a combat zone may seem ridiculous, but from an employment perspective it is just that. Most ex-Service people remark on the reduced support structures that can be accessed in civilian employment. The need to use resettlement assistance and resources wisely is paramount. Prior planning is critical. Seeking guidance from resettlement and career counsellors can help. The bottom line is that anyone wanting a career within the Defence Industry sector should not assume a direct passage into the job of choice. They need to do their homework: talk to industry HR managers about the qualifications and experience they are looking for in particular job sectors, then take steps to improve where it is needed and reinforce or upgrade skills you already have. Employers want ex-miitary people in their workforce but only if they are competitive for a particular job in industry and potentially other jobs in the wider civilian sector.
Managing the transition to ‘civvy’ street Making the transition from the Defence Forces into civilian employment can be challenging, or it can be straightforward. A lot depends upon the approach you take. During a career in the ADF you will have built up confidence in your role, a solid reputation, respect and a modus operandi. There’s a feeling of satisfaction of a job well done over the years and a familiarity of all things military. But in a new civilian job you will have to prove yourself all over again, and this can be confronting, especially for long-term ADF personnel used to the military way. The most important thing to keep in mind is that the civilian work place is a different environment from a military base. Dress code and punctuality won’t be a problem to an ex-military person but relationships with fellow workers and management can be different from the chain of command in the military. A proven approach is to earn respect and confidence through your work ethic, confident demonstration of your skills and experience, and a cooperative attitude. As well as the differences there will be the practical application of what you learned in the military. You will need to utilise the skills you’ve learned and apply them in your new job. Importantly, while you consider your way is the better way, and you may have been used to getting your own way, changes to established practices in the new job will need to be negotiated as a suggested change rather than a “let’s do it my way” approach. If you want to advance in the new company, make yourself visible, work hard and focus on ways to make your area more efficient. Take charge of your own career development, and don’t give up if you don’t get that first promotion. As is the case in the military context, developing good channels of communication with mutual respect and cooperation is always a good approach. Get to know the company, recognise the informal system as well as the formal management structure, and acquaint yourself with the names and faces of the company’s executives. From a time management perspective, learn to prioritise your workload; some things can wait, others cannot. Be careful not to take on too much too soon. At times, it might be necessary to take work home or stay late to meet personal or organizational deadlines. Keep in mind that you are new to the company, even though you may have more experience than many. There are some things you will be better at than others. Consider this when attempting to move up within your organization.
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lookingFORWARD In the old days, well not that long ago, people entering the workforce thought in terms of a main career, staying with one company and gaining promotions along the way, only changing jobs when significant events encouraged a change – and that was certainly the situation within the Australian Defence Force. But times change and that employment premise has changed markedly, with frequent job and career changes becoming the norm as individuals seek various paths, and jobs, along the way to achieving their career, family and life goals.
Factors contributing to this change of attitude cannot be categorized neatly into the Baby Boomer, Generation X and Y stereotypes but rather to a combination of different attitudes towards work that aim to achieve a balance between lifestyle and career. Technological advances changing the nature of work can also influence career paths, as do the higher aspirations of employees for career advancement and remuneration. As the Australian population ages the reduction in the number of people actively seeking new positions is adding competition in the marketplace, especially in professions preferring younger employees, which is encouraging more of a migratory attitude to employment. Generation Y, and younger, actively seek changes in employment to achieve career goals. Even though the global economic downturn has increased unemployment in countries such as the United States, Australia’s unemployment remains at historical lows, so people entering the workforce and those in work are now in greater demand than ever before – especially skilled people. This can be seen in the resources industries but also in related industries, especially those using advanced technologies. With many jobs within the Defence Forces having a strong technological base the prospects for soldiers, sailors and airmen/airwomen when they do leave the ADF are bright – provided their skills and experience align with civilian requirements.
Career Choices Changing one’s main career was often a mid working life decision following promotions within the one organisation, but that has also changed. Research shows a distinct change from age-related models toward more individually triggered career changes. The Australian Defence Force is certainly not insulated from these career motivations, and
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Job change for career options it has identified recruitment and retention of skilled people as a critical factor in meeting its strategic capability development goals. With the ADF actively competing in the human resource marketplace Defence Force personnel now have more options to their career path than ever before, but this means they need to make more decisions about their career directions to meet their current and future work/lifestyle objectives. It means that ADF personnel need to be more proactive in their careers within the Defence Force to enable choice while in the Services, and when they finally separate. Those who leave career development and educational preparation until a year or two before they leave the ADF are at a distinct advantage over those who have been proactive in the preceding years.
Consider these two case studies: ADF Member A joined as a 20-year-old recruit, entering the Army as a gunner, spending most of his career in field regiments and staff positions. He progresses through the ranks to Senior NCO level doing the required Service promotion courses and he achieves a high level of respect in his rank/roles. But he doesn’t undertake any civilian-related training or further his academic qualifications. He decides to separate from the Army as a warrant officer after 22 years because of family commitments. ADF Member B also joined as a 20-yearold recruit, entering the Army as an infantry soldier, spending most of his career in field regiments and staff positions. After a few years in the Army he realises that career advancement would enable choices in the direction of his Army career. So in addition to mandatory Service courses he begins external study with a view to tertiary qualifications, completing these studies in two years. At age 25 with five years service and corporal rank he is accepted into university to study
engineering. As he is undertaking studies that are complementary to his Army job he is given financial assistance to continue his studies. In his second year he applies for a commission and is successful. After completing officer training he focuses on his degree and obtains a Bachelor in Engineering at age 30. He embarks on a new career as an Army officer, continuing post-graduate studies and gains his Masters in Business Administration – again, helped financially by the Army. He progresses through the officer ranks and reaches lieutenant colonel rank at age 42, and decides to embark on a new career in the civilian sector. Both men entered the Army on equal terms and had equal opportunities during their Army careers. The questions are: which ADF member progressed his military career best, will find transition into a career in civilian industry easier, has choices as to his future, and is able to negotiate a job/remuneration package that provides rewards for relevant experience and qualifications? Not only that, which member has more options during his Service career to change to an equivalent civilian occupation should he decide to do so?
Work and Lifestyle From a work/lifestyle perspective the challenge for the ADF in recruiting and retaining people has moved beyond traditional thinking of ‘a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work’ to a more holistic approach: providing a career path that doesn’t necessarily lock people into a Defence Force career, recognising that career change is inevitable, and may be frequent. A worthwhile objective would be to evolve HR policy that allows for several careers within the Defence sector encompassing the Defence forces, Defence industry, the Defence civilian workforce and the Defence Reserves – with the opportunity to move between these workforces as career aspirations dictate. The aim would be to increase the number of
experienced people being retained within the Defence sector – military and allied-military. Understanding why there is a need for transition is important to anyone’s decisionmaking process. An explanation for transition can be found in the six life roles (relationships with self and with work, friends, community, partner and family). Life roles go through cycles of initiation, adaptation, reassessment, and reconciliation – and an individual could be at a different stage in each role simultaneously. Any conflict between two or more of these role cycles could spur the process of career change. An additional factor is that career change has become more socially acceptable, as personal fulfilment is more highly valued. Career decision-making is therefore seen as a series of continuous choices across one’s life span, not a once-and-for-all event. Thus, careers may be viewed as a sequence of life roles, with changes triggered by factors ranging from the ‘anticipated’ (marriage and children) to the ‘unanticipated’ (illness, divorce or layoff) and to ‘non-events’ (marriage or a promotion that did not occur). People also seek change if their original aspirations are not met, conflict with other life roles, or changes to the career itself. Longer life expectancy, changing views of retirement, and economic necessity are other factors. These new ways of looking at life/career cycles and the transition process suggest new approaches for those contemplating career change. The search for a new career involves not only matching the person to the work, but also fitting the ‘occupational career’ into the ‘life career’.
Transition Considerations People contemplating transition need to assess themselves (their personal response to change), their situation (changes in roles, relationships, routines, assumptions), their support structure (does it exist and will it be disrupted by transition), and strategies (taking action to change the situation, change its meaning, or change oneself). In adopting this holistic approach to transition management, people may need to consider: psychological, marital, and family counselling; assessing interests, values, obtaining detailed information about career options; learning about educational and training opportunities; and identifying and overcoming resource barriers such as financial needs and family needs. It is this consideration of all factors, not just immediate pressures, that maximizes the prospects of successful transition through the phases in one’s life. Change is inevitable, only its frequency can be slowed, so a clear awareness of goals is vital in managing that change. A significant difficulty in decision-making about career transition is making distinctions between jobs, work, and careers; and recognizing that transitions are an inevitable part of life and a continual challenge to redefining one’s self.
Health benefits Health insurance for Defence members is offered by Defence Health Limited and Navy Health Ltd which are recognised as restricted entry health funds. Membership to both funds is available to all Defence personnel including Reservists, Defence civilians and contractors and retired Defence personnel. The funds are in a position to offer specially reduced premiums for a military family when one adult member is a full-time serving ADF member as the member is already covered by the ADF health system. Single membership is available, and the funds also offer insurance products.
Translating experience into qualifications
Anyone considering leaving the ADF, will need to explore their options and how to best compete in industry. Academic qualifications are now becoming the norm for entry into many areas of management or business, and vocational qualifications testify to an individual’s ability to actually do the job. An alternative to achieving qualifications is through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) competency assessment. Upon leaving the ADF you will be presented with the qualifications you have achieved through your ADF training. Some things you will need to check with your vocational qualifications: are they nationally recognized or Defence specific qualifications? Are they current, or have they been superseded? Are they a true reflection of your current ability? If you have the skills and knowledge - RPL competency assessment can be simple and straightforward – and it takes into account your category, corps and secondary duties as well as any part time or volunteer work.
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Australian industry has changed over past decades. This is certainly not news to the majority of Australians but many have found that while they have skills, knowledge, experience and background to do the job, they are unable to be competitive in job applications, mainly because they may not have formal qualifications.
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Plan your manoeuvre into tertiary study Applying for entry into tertiary study can, in a way, be likened to planning a military manoeuvre: you cannot simply apply all your combat power at the last minute to achieve the objective; you have to plan ahead knowing that the better the plan, the better the preparation, the smoother the process, the more assured will be the outcome. Similarly, when planning for entry into tertiary study you may need to undertake a number of ‘manoeuvres’ before you actually key in your tertiary application responses. For example, knowing that you may be moving around the country, or even outside the country, can pose a major hurdle – and it’s therefore critical that you and your family can access sound educational programs regardless of location. This article focuses on the opportunities and conditions applying to tertiary study in Queensland but the general principles
apply in most Australian States. While the agencies may go by a different name the approach is similar nationwide, and prospective tertiary candidates can use this example as a guide to how they pursue study in other Australian states. In Queensland, touching base with QTAC’s Tertiary Advice and Counselling Service on (07) 3858 1298 may well provide the initial contact you need. Counsellors will be able to help with any problems of location and particular study requirements. For example, there’s the nitty-gritty question of what sort of
Tips on a winning job interview The job interview is obviously the critical stage in securing a job. It is most often when a prospective employer makes a conscious decision on the winning applicant, or at least on a short list of applicants. Unfortunately, many otherwise qualified people miss out on the job they want because the job application may not fully address the selection criteria, and those who get an interview fail to impress on the day. Job Application A major reason people don’t get to the interview stage, or are considered marginal applicants at interview, is because their applications don’t specifically address the selection criteria. When a prospective employer asks for details of specific skills and experience it is to gauge your suitability for the job vacancy. An application that details skills relevant to the job description will always win over one that is too general – even though both applicants may have similar qualifications. Employers are busy people so get your application noticed. Often, job hunters spend a lot of time preparing the ultimate CV, trying to make it a one-size-fits-all document. This is folly. An application that specifically addresses each element of the job description is the best start, backed by a concise description of ‘value add’ skills and experience amplifying your suitability for the job. This may take extra time but it is well worth the effort. Employers assess prospective applicants on their preparation, which includes a CV relevant to the position advertised. Even if
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some of your skills aren’t directly relevant to the position description, linking skills in some way is worthwhile. For example, successfully completing a post-graduate course will show an employer that you are willing to learn new things.
The Interview Getting to the job interview stage is an achievement in itself – and you want to present the best case possible to get that job. An average interview may only last 20 minutes, which in itself is not long to put forward a strong positive impression. The employer wants to know at interview how you would fit with the position on offer, having already assessed you as potentially suitable. You should be prepared to speak clearly and confidently on your qualifications and experience relevant to the job description. If you don’t have a qualification in a particular aspect, say so if asked, and assure the employer that you would take steps to gain that qualification. This may be a minor aspect of the job and one that may not exclude your application.
Do your research about the company, its products and its industry group. Arrive early so that you have time to calm down and prepare mentally and have time to peruse anything related to the business. Turn off your mobile phone. On entering the room introduce yourself by name: “Good morning, I’m John Smith.” This gives you a chance to hear the level and tone of your voice before the questions start. A firm handshake upon opening and closing a meeting is good business etiquette, but don’t ‘crunch’ your interviewer’s hand. Put your purse or briefcase on the floor by your chair, not on your lap. Hold eye contact comfortably when talking or listening, which says, “I’m confident and I’m interested.” It’s a good idea to consider your responses to typical questions you may be asked at an interview, and keep your answers as simple as possible. Remember, the prospective employer wants you to be the successful applicant. Be the one who is well prepared for the interview, who is articulate and well groomed, and wants to succeed.
professional or academic ‘weaponry’ you are taking in with you to achieve a place in your desired course, and here there are a number of calibrations to take into account, including: Do you have a Year 12 pass that will be sufficient to gain a place in your chosen course? Do you have a trade and what is your rank? How long have you been in the military and what other employment experience do you have? Do you have any additional qualifications that could be taken into account? There are also some tactical pathways that can work around not having formal academic qualifications. For example, it is important to note that if you do not have Year 12 or equivalent, you can apply as an alternative entry applicant, using previous qualifications and employment experience, which can include your time in the ADF. You can also apply for tertiary study through a pathway known as Personal Competencies Assessment (PCA). Briefly, PCA is like writing a wellconsidered and documented job application, complete with referees, addressing set criteria about your ability to successfully carry out your mission, which in this case is tertiary study. You could also sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT), which is recognised by all QTAC institutions as being an indicator of your ability to study at tertiary level. The results of the test can be used by itself or in conjunction with an alternative entry application; that is, an application without formal academic qualifications, such as PCA, to improve your standing. Most people who
submit PCA applications also sit the test because the results can only be used to help their standing, or in military - speak to advance their position. In other words, a bad STAT result will not count against you. In some instances, the STAT can even be used to give you the necessary prerequisite subjects such as Maths or English that you may need to enter your chosen course. As a part of your manoeuvre you may even consider a two-tiered approach: by choosing a tertiary course that is of interest to you, which is easier (less competitive) to get into than your preferred course but may not be your final goal. After a year of successful study in this course you may be able to use your results to ‘upgrade’ into your more desired course. So, this ‘battle plan’ can be your stepping stone into tertiary study, which can be fairly complex depending on your current experience or academic status. However, it can be made immensely easier and more attainable if, in the first instance, a wellconsidered strategy is put into place.
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Sound investing requires risk management The stock market turmoil connected to the Global Financial Crisis, and the subsequent effects on the world economy have taught us that investment strategies involve degrees of risk. Risk may be with the actual investments, the strategy applied, or simply the prevailing investment climate. Experience in the US and in Europe with investments known as ‘Derivatives’ shows that the degree of risk and the ownership of that risk is not always known to the investor because of the practice of on-selling securities. Nevertheless, this highly speculative form of investing should not dissuade people who want to provide for their future through an investment strategy. Done properly, perhaps prudently, investing can be an both aneffective long-term saving strategy and enabling growth in the investment cash-in value. The great advantage of long term investments is that losses are suffered only when cashing in the investment, so if investors can ride out downturns then the odds are that things will get better. If investors are forced to sell during a downturn because they have adopted a short-term strategy without risk strategies in place then they have to take the loss. This is when people can suffer severe financial and asset losses. This is particularly so when investors chase higher and higher returns, with commensurately higher and higher risk. When the correction inevitably comes it will likely be severe. Most analyses show that long-term strategies employing risk management practices always beat the ‘get rich quick’ fad schemes. Clear evidence for this lies in the Global Financial Crisis and subsequent downturns during which many people speculated in a rising pre-GFC market only to see the value of their investment fall dramatically without enough warning to divest themselves of short-term securities. Worst case is when people borrow money to invest, and when the investment becomes a fraction of its bought value the lending institution calls in the loan, leaving the investor out on a financial limb. The question is whether your investment decisions will lead to the right investment package that suits your future goals, circumstances and lifestyle? This article aims to help you: * understand risk from a broader perspective * examine different types of investment risk * think about strategies to protect your investments by reducing your exposure to risk. It’s important to understand and be comfortable with potential investment risks. Remember, it’s your money you are
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investing, and you need to monitor and make adjustments along the way. You don’t need to be speculative and constantly move money around chasing higher returns, but rather oversee what people and financial institutions are doing with your money. No one is immune to risk but speculators are at greatest of risk. It’s easy to be a ‘high flyer’ when markets are buoyant but speculators come unstuck in an inevitable downturn.
Understanding Risk Most people think of ‘risk’ as the risk of shortterm capital loss. However, there are a number of other risk factors. For example: * will your savings buy as much or more in the future (at future prices) as they do today? * will you have enough money for your intended lifestyle and independence in retirement? * will you have timely access to your funds in an emergency? Investors who take the super-safe option of keeping their money in a bank account or a capital guaranteed option are also exposed to risk: the very real risk that inflation will eat away at the value of their funds over time. This is particularly relevant when people retire in ‘boom’ times when investment returns are high only to see the value of their investments diminish quickly in a downturn. So, how do you manage risk and achieve your investment goals? In general, when you make an informed decision to take on some level of risk you create the opportunity for greater reward. This is a fundamental principle of investing called “the risk/reward trade-off.”
Mismatch Risk There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to investing. What is a perfectly sound investment strategy in one situation can be highly risky under different circumstances. This is called ‘mismatch risk’, which is an investment that is inappropriate for your particular needs and circumstances that could result in a loss of some sort. You can minimise Mismatch Risk by focusing on your investment objective and
your timeframe.
Investment objective Think about your investment goals, in the short and long term. Are you investing for income, capital growth or a combination of the two? Your goals might include: saving for a deposit on a home, saving for children’s education in ten years time, or building wealth for retirement in 15, 20 or 30 years’ time.
Timeframe Sometimes you will want to invest for a short time only, perhaps for a specific goal; other times you may be able to take a longerterm view, aiming for growth of your capital. Typically, the following guidelines apply: * Short-term (less than 12 months) - Cash * Medium-term (at least three years) Emphasis on fixed interest with some cash and growth assets. * Long-term (more than five years minimum) with an emphasis on growth assets (shares and property).
Inflation Because of inflation a dollar today will not buy as much as it will ‘tomorrow’. Even if the rate of inflation remained at a relatively low three per cent for the next 15 years, a one dollar purchase made today will cost $1.56 in 15 years’ time. Inflation is therefore an important consideration for all investors. If the after-tax return on your investments is less than the rate of inflation, then the real value of your money is in decline. To protect your investments from the impact of inflation you need to achieve at least some capital growth. While fixed-term deposits and savings account type investments can provide you with a regular income, your capital value remains the same – but its value decreases with inflation. Many people fall into the trap of choosing these investments because they are regarded as safe, but there is a risk that they will not keep pace with inflation and their real value will erode over time.
Pros and cons of owning a franchise
Diversification Diversification means spreading your money across different investments to effectively spread the risk. The better you diversify your investments, the less likely it is that poor performance from one investment will have a major impact on the value of your total portfolio. However, diversifying into several funds can attract increased management and other fees that erode returns, so for smaller investors a single fund that has diversified investment elements may reduce these costs while offering adequate investment spread risk.
Market Market risk refers to volatility, or the extent to which the market value of your investment will fluctuate, moving down as well as up. This is particularly visible in recent times when there has been volatile fluctuations in equity (share) values. Investments expected to produce higher long-term returns generally experience greater volatility in the short-term. Volatility becomes a problem if you don’t have the timeframe to ride out the rough patches. Historically, investors who stick with longterm strategies generally go on to recover and prosper.
Reinvestment If your priority is income then fixed income investments offer advantages but you are exposed to re-investment risk. Interest rates go up and they go down depending on the economic climate and circumstances, so a drop in interest rates when your investment matures means that your capital will then be re-invested at a lower rate. Your new investment will then provide a lower level of income, and because there is no capital growth component with a fixed income investment, there’s no extra capital available to boost your reduced income level.
Liquidity You may be forced to draw on money deposited in long-term investments to meet short-term needs. This can result in a loss, from withdrawal fees or through having to sell investments when the market price is down. By keeping some funds aside in an accessible, short-term investment such as a cash management trust you can avoid this situation. Once you have your short-term needs taken care of, you can embark on a longer-term investment plan, confident that your long-term investments will remain just that - long term!
Advisers and Fees While sound investment advice is imperative for most people there is risk associated with choosing the right financial adviser and the right portfolio for individual needs. When
buying anything, and buying an investment package is no different, shop around and check credentials, conditions, costs and control is very important. Some investment portfolios may incur significant fees in commissions and ongoing management costs, and they may not be as flexible as you would want – incurring substantial penalties for early withdrawals, etc – and they may be ‘top heavy’ in diversification, incurring more and more fees.
Credit Credit risk applies to debt-type investments such as term deposits, debentures and bonds. The risk is that the company to which you have lent money may become insolvent and unable to meet interest payments or to repay your funds. Information is the best means for avoiding credit risk. If you are considering such an investment, ask for information about the company’s credit rating, past performance, ownership, etc. This should give a good indication of the quality of the organisation - and be wary of investments that appear too good to be true; they usually are. Diversification also helps reduce your exposure to credit risk.
Expectations What can you expect from different investments? While growth assets produce the highest average returns, they also experience the greatest volatility. Typically, investments with the lowest volatility produce the lowest average returns. Likewise, those with higher volatility produce higher average returns over the long term. For example, twelve-month returns from an investment in Australian shares over the past 25 years ranged from -43 per cent to 86 per cent. This means that if you invested $10,000 at various times over the last 25 years, 12 months later your investment could be worth anything between $5,746 and $18,613. If, however, you invested your $10,000 for the whole 25-year period it would be worth $226,127.
Consultation In establishing an investment strategy the Golden Rule is: spend a lot of time thinking about your requirements for future financial security, read as much as possible about the various investment products available, consult a qualified financial planner as to the various investment options, and armed with this valuable knowledge structure a portfolio that meets your requirements. This consultation process is especially important for people who have demanding jobs and do not have the time or the expertise to effectively plan their financial future. Truly independent advice is critical to realising your future financial goals.
Many people who want to get into their own business consider a franchise type business as a relatively ‘safe bet’, as franchises generally have an established brand, business model and support structure. However, owning a franchise business is the same as owning any other business: there are no guarantees of success, no easy way to profits, no easy management processes, and can cost a lot in terms of buying the franchise, setting up the business, and ongoing fees and charges. Then of course there are the costs associated with the business premises, staff wages, stock, and so on. Typically, buying a franchise involves financial outlays upfront, which can be significant, so prospective franchise owners need to be confident that this type of business suits their aspirations, financial position and business outlook. Pros: Franchises are normally turnkey businesses. Branding, premises design, marketing and systems are well established. The new owner/s follow an established formula and can be up and running soon after committing to buy the franchise. One real advantage of owning a franchise is that the business may have the backing of a much larger organization – and the product is normally tried and tested in the market. Conversely, in a non-franchised business the owner can be solely responsible for every aspect of the business: development, branding, marketing, etc. Cons: The disadvantages of owning a franchise relate mainly to the type of person you are and the level of financial investment required. There are no easy businesses to be in, just different challenges in making and sustaining a profitable business. You may not like the restrictions placed on franchise operators – having to follow established norms without deviation so that the product is the same regardless of the outlet. Having to pay a percentage of revenue to the franchisor can also impact significantly on the business, especially if revenue levels don’t meet expectations. Remember this is your business – and if it’s not profitable then obviously it’s your risk. Ask yourself. ‘does this really stack up as a good business with real prospects for growth and profit, or is it just buying a new career?’ Summary: The bottom line is that success in a franchise, as with any business, rest with the owner’s capacity to ensure there is a market for the product or service, that the business volume is sufficient to make a profit, and that the business is managed effectively according to a formula established by the franchisor.
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Dispelling the myths about Military Super On separation from the Defence Forces the payment of benefits from the MilitarySuper scheme may be the first time that many people have a substantial cash/ pension asset at their disposal. How substantial that sum will be depends upon a range of factors including years of service and pay level. While the thought of planning for retirement is distant when in your twenties and thirties it is nevertheless the ideal time to start saving – to allow funds to grow over time into a substantial ‘nest egg’ – and this is particularly important now, as current superannuation rules provide for generous taxation advantages when withdrawing funds under Transition to Retirement provisions and Retirement Income. From a retirement perspective, an informed knowledge of MilitarySuper benefits is important because both the MSBS and the older DFRDB scheme available to Defence personnel provide maximum benefits to those with long-term ADF service. These benefits reduce markedly with shorter periods of service. Knowing the potential financial outcomes – benefits and penalties – may make the difference between leaving the Services or continuing on to take advantage of long-term MilitarySuper benefits. Most financial experts would advise people to be wary about taking the quick ‘bag of cash’ and then working out what to do with it. Indeed, knowing the extent and provisions for such entitlements can be a significant factor in any decision to leave the Defence Forces. It’s too late after discharge to realize that you could have been much better off financially by staying on until a more favourable time of departure.
MSBS While some may consider the Super ‘grass is greener’ when looking at other funds being offered, and hearing the advertising hype that surrounds such funds, the fact remains that compared with other retail and industry superannuation funds, MSBS is a very generous scheme in terms of employer (Department of Defence) contributions, retirement benefits and life-long pension entitlements. At present, most employers contribute nine per cent of salary on their employees’ behalf to a super fund of their choice but he employer
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contribution into MSBS for Defence personnel ranges from 18 per cent of Final Average Salary (FAS) for up to seven years’ service, 23 per cent for service seven to 20 years, and 28 per cent for service past 20 years. Final Average Salary (FAS) is an average of your annual salary for superannuation purposes over a period prior to your discharge date. Members must contribute a minimum of five per cent of salary up to a maximum of 10 per cent into the MSBS fund, which grows with accrued interest payments into each member’s MSBS account. The result is that over the period of service substantial sums are paid into each member’s account. Members also have five investment strategies from which to choose: Cash, Conservative, Balanced, Growth (default strategy) and High Growth. For long-term members, any suggestion that you are better off in another fund needs to be questioned closely, taking notice of the facts and treating any sales pitch from another super fund with healthy suspicion. Issues such as management fees, fund performance and, importantly, rollover/exit fees need close examination beyond the pitch in the glossy brochure. All financial institutions have to provide a Disclosure Statement that detail terms and conditions related to the investment and the fund. Read this carefully and always obtain independent financial advice. When considering the investment strategy, generally speaking, the Cash and Conservative options have lower exposure to Australian and International shares investments while the ‘Growth’ and ‘High Growth’ options have a much higher investment in shares. The ‘Balanced’ option, as the name implies, has more equal portions of conservative and higher risk investments. Returns in ‘Growth’ and ‘High Growth’ can have higher returns over time but investors should be prepared for periods of negative growth. Members may choose the strategy that suits their investment timeframe and individual
requirements. Historical data on fund performance is available on the MilitarySuper website. The employer-contributed benefit is a defined benefit, which means that it accrues based on a formula and is not affected by the earnings of the MSBS fund. This means the entitlement is calculated at the time of discharge based on your FAS and your Accrued Benefit Multiple to determine the value of the benefit. The employer benefit has two components, the ‘funded’ productivity and the ‘unfunded’ employer share. The ‘productivity’ is the compulsory three per cent superannuation that your employer (The Department of Defence) pays on your behalf. This benefit is paid directly into the fund and will accrue with fund earnings. The employer share is the amount the Commonwealth Government will contribute to the benefit to make up the total employer benefit determined by the formula. As this amount is ‘unfunded’ it is paid from consolidated revenue at the time of claiming the benefit. At or close to retirement age MSBS entitlements are very generous, especially the pension entitlements. As a general example, someone who retires at age 55 would only have to draw the MSBS pension for about 12 years to recoup the whole employercontributed benefit through their maximum CPI-indexed pension, and then that indexed pension would be paid for the rest of his/her life. Lump sum benefits for rollover or personal management are also substantial. The MSBS Scheme is not a traditional Super scheme, it is primarily a Retirement Scheme, which attracts maximum benefits as the member approaches 55 years of age – at which time they can take the employer-contributed benefit, roll it over into another fund, or convert all or part of it to a pension. That Defence personnel can access their Employer
Benefit as a pension at the age of 55 is also an advantage. One point of contention with the Scheme, however, is that it does not operate as a classic superannuation fund for members who resign before age 55. Although members benefit from the generous levels of employer-contributions during their service the employer share remains within consolidated revenue following discharge and grows only at the CPI rate until the funds can be accessed at age 55 as a cash benefit or rolled over into another fund. The Productivity component of the Employer Benefit is funded and earns interest at the fund return rate. Only the member-contributed funds may be withdrawn, rolled over or left in MSBS to grow as a ‘superannuation’ investment when the member leaves the Defence Force. MSBS advantages as a retirement scheme need to be considered, therefore, in the context of any decision to leave before age 55. There’s no doubt that while MSBS ‘looks’ like a superannuation fund, with investment strategies for member contributions, beyond that MSBS is unique in its operation and method of determining benefits. For those who stay long-term the benefits are virtually unmatched in comparison with other super funds. The criticism from Service personnel, however, is that the Scheme does not provide enough flexibility for those who may spend 10 to 15 years in the Defence Forces but will have a large portion of their entitlement locked up for a long time not earning interest beyond CPI adjustments. Members may make personal contributions, salary sacrifice amounts and spouse contributions and may transfer amounts from other schemes into MilitarySuper. Ancillary contributions will accrue as a separate accumulation interest within the MSB Fund and fluctuate in line with returns achieved by the Fund. These contributions do not attract or add to the employer benefit. However, the amount you can salary sacrifice into Super under concessional taxation rates has been reduced, so contributing progressively through salary sacrifice over a number of years is certainly beneficial from a taxation perspective. To be better informed on this very important financial aspect of working life, MilitarySuper members need to make it their business to know more about their eligibility to contribute to, and receive benefits from MilitarySuper. Regular MSBS seminars at Defence units, the MilitarySuper website (www.militarysuper.gov. au), the MilitarySuper Customer Service Centre on 1300 006 727 plus the MilitarySuper Book available online from MilitarySuper will provide further information on the scheme.
DFRDB The number of Defence personnel with entitlements under the Defence Force Retirement & Death Benefit Scheme is reducing as time goes by, with no new members able to join this scheme since 1991. DFRDB is also weighted toward long-term service in the Defence Force – members with 20 or more years of service and having reached retiring age for their rank (commissioned officers only). Under the DFRDB Scheme, members who leave the ADF on non-medical grounds having served less than 20 years are entitled to a resignation benefit. This arrangement also
applies to those who have completed 15 or more years but have not reached the retiring age for their rank. This resignation benefit is a lump sum comprising personal contributions to the scheme plus, in some cases, a gratuity. Gratuities in the form of a one-off bonus are usually payable to other-rank members who have served 12 months but less than 20 years service. Special conditions apply to the payment of gratuities to officers. Retirement pay for officers may be reduced if they have not reached notional retiring age for rank. Special conditions apply to officers who were commissioned officers at the date they transferred from the old DFRB scheme and are deemed to be “in detriment”. This only applies to a limited number of Officers, and ComSuper will advise you upon discharge whether you are in detriment. If you are entering some form of government employment after discharge, you may be able to elect to preserve your benefit. If this provision applies, you should find out how to arrange to effectively carry over your benefit to the new job. This option is only available to members who have not reached the 20-year mark. In addition to your DFRDB benefit you are also entitled to a productivity benefit paid by the Department of Defence. If you are under your preservation age it must be paid into a rollover fund of your choice until you reach your preservation age and retire from the workforce. If you have undergone a Medical Employment Classification Review (MECR) and the MECR Board has recommended that you are not medically fit for further service, you will be retired on invalidity grounds. Under these conditions, the DFRDB benefit you will receive is independent of any compensation or Department of Veterans’ Affairs benefit to which you may be entitled but it will impact on the amount of compensation payable. Benefits are payable to your eligible dependants as a pension or to your estate as a lump sum in the event of your death. All DFRDB benefits are subject to taxation dependent upon individual circumstances, such as the amount of pre-1983 service you may have. The exact entitlements to MSBS and DFRDB benefits depend on several factors, so consultation with the relevant Defence authority, Defence Instructions and MilitarySuper is vital to knowing how your particular circumstances affect your entitlements. This will also provide the information you need to make informed decisions about the best superannuation package for your circumstances. For example, both the MSBS and DFRDB provide for benefit to families in the event of invalidity and death of a member, which are inherent to each scheme. Details are available through the hotlines, website or by contacting MilitarySuper.
Salary sacrifice – Smart option Sacrificing salary may not seem like a way to actually save money, but by taking advantage of income restructuring you can ‘pocket’ more of your pay – or, more correctly, pay less tax on the money you receive as salary. Under the Australian Defence Organisation’s salary packaging arrangements, personnel may choose to receive salary as a combination of cash plus approved benefits that are either tax-free or taxed at concessional rates. The Australian Taxation Office approves of employees salary packaging by replacing some of their cash salary with benefits that lower taxable income. The Australian Government also supports salary packaging, especially sacrificing into superannuation because it encourages investment in retirement benefits that ultimately takes pressure off social security payments such as the age pension. Defence members are able to make additional superannuation contributions into the MSBS scheme. Personnel can customise their salary package by choosing benefits that best suit individual needs. It provides the option to include a range of benefits that offer both convenience and the advantage of using income more effectively. Items which can be accessed under a salary sacrifice arrangement include motor vehicles, income protection insurance, work related travel that Defence approves but does not pay for, which might include fares, meals and accommodation, and selfeducation expenses which are work related. Savings gained by salary packaging compared to paying for the same expenses without packaging may be significant and will depend upon salary, the benefits selected, the amount spent on those benefits and other personal circumstances. All permanent ADO members are eligible to salary package and ADF personnel and civilian employees located overseas are able to participate in salary packaging but are unable to package motor vehicles. Reserve members on Continuous Full Time Service are able to salary package during their period of employment, provided that the arrangements can be accommodated within the period of employment. Salary packaging is voluntary and can be entered into at any time.
Editor’s Note. This article aims to discuss some of the issues inherent in both schemes and Military Super generally to give Defence personnel have an idea of the main points of each scheme. It is not meant to be an authoritative source about particular aspects of the schemes, and the views expressed are not necessarily those of the Military Super Board.
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Investing in property Investors in property have made a range of returns in the long term but in recent years the capital appreciation has slowed, and while there has been a recent upturn in demand the returns of the 70s and 80s are not back. Nevertheless, investing in ‘bricks and mortar’ remains popular because it is a tangible asset that is unlikely to go down in value over the longer term unless purchased as a highly speculative venture. The most popular form of property investment in Australia is in residential property. Other investment alternatives include office space, commercial property and retail property – and indirectly through managed investments such as property trusts and other investment packages that have a property portion. Investing outside the traditional residential market may require expert advice for first-time investors, as there are many other factors to consider. All investment properties require essential management to protect the value of the asset and the returns (rent) from the property. The easiest, and safest, method is through real estate agents who provide a range of services including letting, rent collection, maintenance and itemized income versus expenditure details for tax purposes. When buying an investment property the capital costs, initial costs and ongoing costs all need to be considered in the business sense: is the product (the property) marketable at the price (rent) that will provide an adequate return on the investment? Are the startup costs (Stamp Duty, Legal/Conveyancing etc), maintenance and other ongoing costs going to ‘eat away’ at returns to the extent that the investment is not viable? Ongoing costs that need to be considered: - Interest on borrowings. - Insurance (building and contents) - Rates (if paid by the owner.) - Maintenance (planned and unscheduled).
- Body corporate, which can be substantial if there are extensive public areas to maintain (swimming pool, lift, gardens, tennis court, etc) - and there may be unexpected arisings such as unplanned repairs and maintenance. In Australia there are tax concessions available to property investors, with a range of income producing costs accepted by the ATO as deductions – to the extent that deductions that exceed revenue on one property may be transferred to other income-producing investments. When rental income does not fully cover the expenses, this is referred to as ‘Negative Gearing’. The advice is to treat Negative Gearing carefully. The golden rule is that you reduce tax through ‘gearing’ only when the net capital value of the property increases by much more than the net negative outgoings. This works well in a buoyant market but can be disastrous in a down market, and as property is typically a long term investment then the Negative Gearing aspect needs critical examination. Then there’s Capital Gains tax to consider, which is applied to the assessed value of your property between when you bought it and when you sold it – after discounting for indexation. This is an area where expertise is important, and novice investors are urged to seek professional advice on ‘gearing’ and ‘capital gains’. When selecting a property for investment purposes sentiment needs to be set aside, replaced with clear business thinking.
A property that is relatively low in capital purchase price, has low ongoing costs, commands good rent levels and has good potential for increasing capital value is obviously the best choice over one with high capital cost and high outgoings. If too much is paid for the property (over capitalization) with low potential to increase in value then it’s probably not a good investment, especially if it has high maintenance costs. Other investments to treat with suspicion are properties linked to investment seminars, Internet marketing schemes – and especially purchases off a plan, which can be highly speculative. Purchases ‘into the future’ may not be of similar or appreciated value at time of delivery – resulting in the asset value not exceeding the amount borrowed. One aspect of investing in property is that it is a form of ‘forced’ saving on an asset that over time will always increase in capital value - sometimes markedly, sometimes marginally, and it has to be said, sometimes negatively. If treated as a long-term investment that commits funds to an asset that appreciates rather than something that depreciates in value, such as an expensive motor vehicle, then investing in property can provide rewards later in life when it is really needed. There’s no doubt that people who invest in property wisely and not indulge speculatively will increase their asset value.
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A successful transition from Service to civilian life depends to a large extent on effective planning and taking action to meet your career and lifestyle goals. This enables you to manage the separation on your terms. Generally speaking, the earlier the start the easier is the decision to go, or to stay, and the more prepared you are for the transition to the civilian workforce. In individual circumstances, longer lead times may be required for education and training, financial management, and career progression prior to discharge.
What to do now Whatever your time in the Defence Forces at present, now is the time to consider your future in terms of making the best of your Service career, laying out a plan for eventual separation, and generally planning for the future. It’s understandable that Defence personnel just starting out in their careers, don’t want to think about the mundane planning for the future, which seems so far off. Who wants to think about superannuation, home ownership, financial planning and supplementary training when there’s good times to be had. There’s no doubt, however, that people who commit some of their time and some of their resources to even a loose plan for the future benefit from time: time to watch investments grow; time to acquire a valuable education, training and skills; time provide for a family; and time to consider the next career move.
3-4 years prior to discharge Apply for a Transition Seminar. TriService transition seminars that consolidate information and advice on various aspects of transition are conducted in all capital cities and in Newcastle, Nowra, Bandianna and Townsville. Details are available from your Unit Resettlement Officer. DFRDB/MSBS. Write to ComSuper for advice on specific entitlements. You will be entitled to a superannuation benefits from either the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits (DFRDB) scheme or the Military Superannuation and Benefits Scheme (MSBS). The benefit you will receive depends on which scheme you belong to and the method of discharge.
1-4 years prior to discharge Training. Use the Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS) to undertake training that may help you obtain qualifications necessary for your post-discharge employment. All ADF members serving on full time continuous service are eligible to apply for assistance, which provides sponsorship for short vocational, education and training courses undertaken in preparation for re-entry into civilian life.
12 months to go Career Transition Assistance. Find out from your Resettlement Officer about eligibility for benefits under the Career Transition Assistance
Transition timeline – be ready to leave Scheme. The CTAS is a tiered benefit based on completed years of ADF service, accessible for up to 12 months after separation and preserved on transfer to an Active Reserve element. The scheme is designed to assist with employment opportunities after you leave the ADF. Taxation. Write to the Australian Taxation Office and request Undeducted Purchase Price (UPP) if you have pre-1983 service. A taxation liability may exist on the receipt of a payment in consequence of your discharge. Apply for a second Transition Seminar. Areas covered include advice on: job seeking techniques and employment prospects; self employment; transition to the civilian work place/life style; benefits available, e.g. superannuation, housing, loans, compensation, veteran’s entitlements; and management of personal affairs, eg investment, taxation, wills.
6 months to go DFRDB/MSBS. Write to ComSuper requesting confirmation of entitlements. The DFRDB Authority manages the DFRDB Scheme and the MSB Board of Trustees manages the MSBS. ComSuper administers both schemes. ComSuper website is www.comsuper.gov.au Previous Service. Ensure that any relevant previous service has been recognised for LSL purposes. Apply for Discharge. Application for Resignation, Discharge or Transfer to the Reserves should be processed through your relevant Career Management Agency via your supervisor. You should apply for discharge/ resignation allowing at least three calendar months’ effective service before your intended discharge date. Long Service Leave. If you wish to take LSL before your discharge, your application should be forwarded six months before the desired date of commencement. Eligibility for LSL accrues at the rate of three months for the first 10 years and 0.3 months for each year over 10 years. LSL may either be taken during service on full or half pay in which case tax is payable as for normal income. Health Insurance. Before you leave the ADF you should consider carefully your health insurance needs. Changes to private health insurance, namely Lifetime Health Cover, have significant implications for members separating from the ADF. On ceasing full-time
service after 1 July 2000, you have two years or until you reach the age of 31, to join a health fund without detriment.
3 months to discharge Removal. Arrange an interview with the relevant removals staff. Pay in Lieu of Long Service Leave. Your Unit Pay Centre will assist you to make an application for pay in lieu of LSL. Check with your future employer to ascertain whether it is possible to transfer LSL credits to your new employment. Medical and dental examination. Arrange an appointment for final medical and dental examinations. You will need to organise treatment, where necessary, to be carried out. Health insurance and ambulance. Reconsider your health insurance situation and make the necessary arrangements with DefenceHealth/ NHBS, private insurance health schemes and/or ambulance funds. Tradesman Certificate. Ensure your Record of Training has been accredited by the appropriate authority. Will. Ensure you have made arrangements to collect your will and/or make a new will.
Close to discharge date Housing. Tenants of Defence homes are expected to vacate their quarter on discharge or retirement, but an extension may be approved under certain circumstances. Seek written approval for an extension from your Service Housing Authority well in advance of discharge. Housing Loan. You should establish your eligibility for a DSH Loan/Defence Home Owner Loan; Bank/Building Society Loan; and Home Purchase or Sale Expenses Allowance. Repatriation and Compensation. If you are injured, or develop an illness linked to your service in the ADF, you may be eligible for compensation. The Military Compensation Scheme (MCS) provides members with compensation and rehabilitation cover. The Military Compensation and Rehabilitation Service website (www.dva.gov.au/adf/mcrs/) allows you to assess your eligibility. Note: This timeline and schedule is not exhaustive, nor it is authoritative but merely a guide as to the type of considerations and actions required. Members are strongly urged to seek advice from respective Service authorities when planning for a future separation from the Defence Forces,w
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lookingFORWARD The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) is the naval branch of the Australian Defence Force. Established in 1901, the RAN is Australia’s senior Service, formed out of the Commonwealth Naval Forces to become the small navy of Australia after Federation, consisting of the former colonial navies of the new Australian states. The Royal Navy continued to provide blue-water defence in the Pacific until World War II, when expansion of the RAN acquired aircraft carriers and other large surface vessels for blue-water operations. Today the RAN is one of the largest and most sophisticated naval forces in the Pacific region, with a significant presence in the Indian Ocean, having recently celebrated its centenary with a massive event on Sydney Harbour. The RAN continues a high operational tempo in support of military campaigns and peacekeeping missions worldwide. On the personnel front, the New Generation Navy (NGN) program was established in 2009 under a Chief of Navy Directive to address the Culture, Leadership and Structural changes required for Navy to meet the challenges of delivering future capability. NGN represents the energy and commitment of Navy’s people in creating an environment where people are empowered to perform at their best; where Navy – as a warfighting force – is trusted to defend Australia and its interests by being ready to fight and win at sea. The Commonwealth Naval Forces were established on 1 March 1901, two months after Federation. On 10 July 1911, King George V granted the title of ‘Royal Australian Navy’. During World War I the RAN captured many of Germany’s colonies in the South Pacific and protecting Australian shipping from the German East Asia Squadron. For the remainder of the war most of the RAN’s major ships operated as part of Royal Navy forces in the Mediterranean and North Seas. During the 1920s and early 1930s the Royal Australian Navy was greatly reduced in size. As international tensions increased; however, the RAN was modernised and expanded. During the early years of World War II ships from the RAN again operated as part of the Royal Navy, with RAN ships serving with distinction in the Mediterranean. Following the outbreak of the Pacific War and the virtual destruction of the Royal Navy in Asia the RAN increasingly operated independently or as part of US Navy forces. By the end of the war, the RAN was the fifth largest navy in the world. While the size of the RAN was greatly reduced after World War II, the Navy gained new capabilities with the delivery of two aircraft carriers. The RAN saw action in many Cold War era conflicts in the Asia-Pacific region and operated alongside the Royal Navy and
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US Navy off Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam. Following the end of the Cold War the RAN has participated in Coalition forces in the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean and has formed a critical element in Australian-led operations in East Timor and the Solomon Islands. Fleet Command was previously made up of seven Force Element Groups, but after the New Generation Navy changes, this was restructured into four Force Commands: - Surface Force, covering the RAN’s surface combatants (generally frigate size or larger) -Submarine Force, operating the Collins class submarines - Mine Warfare, Hydrographic and Patrol Boat Force, an amalgamation of the previous Patrol Boat, Hydrographic, and Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving Forces, operating what are termed the RAN’s “minor war vessels” - Fleet Air Arm, responsible for the navy’s aviation assets. The RAN fleet includies frigates, submarines, patrol boats and auxiliary ships. The RAN today is tasked with the ability to defend Australian waters and undertake wider deployments. The RAN has two primary bases for its fleet: Fleet Base East located at HMAS Kuttabul near Sydney, and Fleet Base West, located at HMAS Stirling near Perth. There are three other ports, which are home to the majority of the RAN’s minor war vessels: HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin, HMAS Cairns in Cairns, HMAS Waterhen in Sydney. The fleet is made up of 51 commissioned warships as of January 2013. The main strength is the twelve frigates of the surface combatant force: eight Anzac class and four Adelaide class. Six Collins class boats make up the submarine service, although technical and manpower problems mean not all of the submarines are active at any time. Amphibious warfare assets include the dock landing ship HMAS Choules, the heavy landing ship HMAS Tobruk, and three Balikpapan class heavy landing craft. Fourteen Armidale class patrol boats perform coastal and economic exclusion zone patrols, and four Huon class vessels are used for minehunting and clearance (with another two commissioned but in reserve since October 2011). Replenishment at sea
is provided by two ships, Sirius and Success, while the two Leeuwin class and four Paluma class vessels perform survey and charting. The RAN also operates the sail training ship Young Endeavour, the support vessel ADV Ocean Shield, and two Bandicoot class minesweeper tugboats. The Fleet Air Arm provides the RAN’s naval aviation capability - an entirely helicopter based force. Most of the Navy’s large ships are capable of operating helicopters, and frigates typically carry Sikorsky S-70B Seahawk. RAN squadrons include: - 723 Squadron – Aerospatiale AS 350BA Ecureuil (Squirrel) and Agusta A109E. The squadron is the Fleet Air Arm’s primary helicopter training unit. - 808 Squadron – currently being formed to operate the RAN’s six MRH 90s. - 816 Squadron – Sikorsky S-70B Seahawk, providing Seahawk helicopters for use aboard Adelaide and Anzac class frigates. The RAN has two Clearance Diving Teams: Clearance Diving Team One based at HMAS Waterhen in Sydney and Clearance Diving Team Four based at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia. The CDTs have two primary roles: Mine Counter Measures, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, plus Maritime Tactical Operations. There are several major projects in progress that will upgrades the capabilities of the RAN: - Sea 1390 Project will upgrade four Adelaide class guided missile frigates with enhanced weapons and electronics. - Sea 1654 Project will upgrade the RAN’s replenishment and support vessels. - Sea 4000 Project will acquire three Air Warfare Destroyers based on the Spanish Álvaro de Bazán class frigate, an Aegisequipped class. - Two (27000+ tonne displacement) Canberra class Landing Helicopter Docks (the largest warships ever operated by the RAN). - Sea 1000 to replace the current Collins class submarine. The RAN maintains a readiness to deploy overseas in response to Australian Government tasking, to support coalition operations and humanitarian assist activities.
The Australian Army’s mission statement is “to provide a potent, versatile and modern Army to promote the security of Australia and to protect its people and interests” and its mission is “to win the land battle”. The Army delivers land warfare capability but the changing nature of modern warfare – the need for land, air and maritime forces to adapt to the complexity of the constantly evolving battlespace – means that the Army needs to reorganize and assign new roles to combat and support elements. The Army is undergoing expansion from 26,000 to 31,000 troops in coming years, and is introducing new equipments and technologies to increase its firepower, mobility and survivability. The Army is also deeply involved in the Information Age, with increased reliance on intelligence gathering and communications to improve its situational awareness, especially in asymmetric warfare. These new directions require a new approach. Under the Adaptive Army initiative the Australian Army is in the process of restructuring its higher command and control arrangements. The aim for the Chief of Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison is to ensure that Army is better able to adapt and respond to the challenges of generating and preparing land forces for 21st Century operations. Army Headquarters has been restructured with two divisions, one to focus on Army’s current activities and one to focus on force development and strategic planning. The Army Headquarters restructure has been followed by the re-roling of Headquarters 1st Division in Brisbane to focus on the force preparation of Army force elements for current operations and contingencies. Army has raised a Forces Command to focus on the force generation of Army individuals and collective organisations. The Chief of Army said that individual training at present is worldclass but that systems for collective training require improvement. This evolution of Army’s Functional Commands aims to better position the Army to conduct our responsibilities for force generation and preparation while ensuring the most effective and transparent utilisation of resources. The changes described here will ensure that Army is better able to adapt and respond to the challenges of generating and preparing land forces for 21st century operations.
Personnel Army doctrine recognizes that soldiers are fundamental to the concept of land power. It states that modern armies depend on the abilities of professional, innovative, adaptive individuals who can react quickly to changing conditions: high-quality personnel moulded by training into cohesive teams with good collective morale (esprit de corps).
Australian Army Without soldiers, armies cannot succeed, as technology is ineffective unless managed by humans. Soldiers represent the human face of warfighting: tough, courageous and aggressive in combat, but also showing flexibility and initiative, and demonstrating subtlety and compassion when called upon to do so. According to the Chief of Army, “Contemporary operations are characterised by the need for our deployed land forces to work among the people, and establish a broad relationship with the supported population. Simultaneously, these same soldiers need to conduct a range of operations to deprive our adversary of his support base. Such warfare requires small teams of highly skilled and flexibly employed soldiers, who can rapidly transition between different types of operations.” Preparing soldiers for this environment is seen as key to the ongoing development of the Army, with operations being less about killing the enemy than about making them irrelevant to the population.
Training & Force Development Australian Army units train for low and medium intensity operations against symmetric and asymmetric enemies. Compared with Western European or US forces our Army’s numerical strength and depth of resources are low, but its warfighting skills are high. The Australian Army has proved its combat capability in conflicts in which it operates as part of a much larger coalition force, such as in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Army has also proved its effectiveness regionally in operations and peacekeeping operations. Australian forces are now being equipped to better inter-operate within coalition forces. Over the next few years Army will introduce a range of capabilities to improve its firepower, mobility, survivability and its capacity to collect and analyse information with platforms such as the Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter, upgraded Armoured Personnel Carriers, the Bushmaster, new MRH-90 troop-lift helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, and new communications systems. The Army will also need to integrate these platforms into combined arms teams. The Chief of Army says the future land force aims to be:
- ready and able to deploy at short notice with joint and inter-agency partners to undertake a range of missions anywhere in the world. - physically and mentally hardened against the rigors of modern close combat and the austere physical environments into which it deploys. - able to recruit, train and retain the finest Australian men and women, giving them the physical and intellectual wherewithal to complete the missions assigned. - continually seeking to adapt and improve its performance at all levels while retaining important lessons from the past. - supporting the families of our soldiers, in the good times and in the bad. meeting the ideals and aspirations of the nation, acting in a manner which brings credit upon the Australian Army and Australia.
Current deployments Forces are currently deployed on four major operations: Operation Catalyst - Defence formally concluded its military commitment to the rehabilitation of Iraq in July 2009. More than 20000 ADF personnel saw service in Iraq between 2003 and 2009. Operation Slipper - Australia’s military contribution to the international campaigns against terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security in the Middle East Area of Operations. Australia’s military contribution to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan is deployed under Operation SLIPPER. Operation Astute - the ADF contribution to East Timor to assist in restoring peace and stability to their country. Operation Anode - the ADF contribution to the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI). In the coming years, the Australian Army will continue to engage in high tempo operations at home and on deployment overseas. Soldiers will need to adapt to new technologies and warfighting tactics while adapting to changing circumstances. It is a time of great change but a time when the Australian Defence Force will take a quantum leap in capability.
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Royal Australian Air Force
The Royal Australian Air Force provides air and space power for Australia’s security. It is the youngest of the three armed Services in the Australian Defence Force, which is the uniformed element of the Department of Defence. The RAAF employs about 13,500 men and women, supported by 2,800 Air Force Reservists and 900 civilian public servants, at 11 major bases and a host of offices across Australia. Air Force Headquarters is located in Canberra. The Air Force Vision is to maintain a fighting force that “will be a balanced expeditionary air force capable of achieving the Australian Government’s objectives through swift and decisive application of air and space power in joint operations or as a part of a larger coalition force”. The strategic objective is for RAAF to deliver highly capable air power capability within the Asia Pacific region, and to integrate with allied forces in coalition when required. Its motto is the Latin phrase Per Ardua ad Astra, translated as “Through Struggle to the Stars”, from Sir Henry Rider Haggard’s novel The People of the Mist. Rank designations within the RAAF officer and other ranks are derived from the Royal Air Force. Rank is worn on slip-on rank epaulettes on the shoulders of the Service uniform. On the Disruptive Pattern Combat Uniform (also called Auscam or DPCU) rank is worn centred on the front of the Auscam shirt/jacket. The current version of the RAAF Roundel was formally adopted in 1956. Its design is a white inner circle with a Red Kangaroo surrounded by a Royal Blue circle. The kangaroo faces left, except when used on aircraft or vehicles, when the kangaroo should always face the front. Originally, the Air Force used the existing red, white and blue Roundel of the Royal Air Force. However, during World War II, the inner red circle was removed after an 11 Squadron Catalina was mistaken for a Japanese aircraft by a US Navy Wildcat in the Pacific Theatre. The RAAF badge was accepted by the Chester Herald in 1939. It is composed of the Imperial Crown mounted on a circle featuring the words Royal Australian Air Force, beneath which scroll
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work displays the Latin motto Per Ardua Ad Astra. Surmounting the badge is a wedgetailed eagle.
The Air Force Today and Tomorrow In an authoritative publication on Air Power, ‘The Australian Experience of Air Power’, Australia’s security policy changes are described as going from a strategy in the 1950s of forward defence, with provision for expeditionary operations, to one of defence of Australia in the wake of the Vietnam War. As late as 1987, this defensive stance persisted with a policy of defending the sea-air gap across northern Australia, even though the RAAF force structure was offensive in nature, especially with the F-111 (now withdrawn from service), F/A-18 and the AP-3C Orion. This need to defend in the sea-air gap led to the establishment of bare bases across Australia’s north, including RAAF Scherger on Cape York, RAAF Curtin near Derby WA and RAAF Tindal near Katherine NT (now a permanent base for F/A-18 Hornet fighters). These bases would be needed to launch aircraft into the sea-air gap if a threat emerged. This attitude changed in the mid-1990s, with the Government stating that the defence of Australia required the ADF to structure towards ‘defending Australian regional interests’. While this did not mean a return to ‘forward defence’ policy it did mean the ADF would become more capable in expeditionary operations. Importantly, this led to the formation of Combat Support Group –a world first in providing organic support for air and other operations from a forward bare or permanent base. This became the task of Expeditionary Support Squadrons across Australia: to deploy to a forward operating base, secure the base and establish facilities. This enabled secure air operations to be conducted and maintained. A defining moment in Australian air power came in 2000 with the release of the Defence
2000 White Paper, with a doctrinal change to an expeditionary approach – acknowledging less likelihood of the ADF having to defend sovereign territory against attack. The RAAF needed to structure and organise as “an agile and versatile force, prepared to conduct and sustain a range of expeditionary operations, from those in our region to coalition operations much further afield.” One problem in meeting the expeditionary commitments, potentially to different locations, centres on the reduction in personnel numbers over the past decade. However, with a force of around 13,500 the RAAF has continued to support a number of operations and missions overseas, which has resulted in a continuing high operational tempo. This led to an ongoing program of ‘rebalancing’ the RAAF, aimed at distributing personnel and assets to where they are most needed – especially in the introduction of new technologies and weapon systems. These new capabilities include Global Airlift with the C-17A Globemaster III, Air Defence and Ground Attack with the F/A-18F Super Hornet and potentially the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft with the E-7A Wedgetail, and Multi-Role Tanker Transport with the KC-30A. The RAAF is also serious about introducing a high altitude UAV capability to supplement the manned aircraft capability with the AP-3C Orion, and its replacement. Contenders for the UAV include the Northrop Grumman RQ-4 Global Hawk or the General Atomics Mariner. The future of the RAAF will be shaped by a number of factors: its history in times of war and peace, lessons drawn from more recent operations as part of larger coalition expeditionary forces, emerging threats globally and regionally, and the prevailing doctrine in response to Government policies on the safeguarding Australia’s security.
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Concession Card Holders: $90* (normally $2,200) Non Concession Card Holders: $225*
BDSc FRACDS MDSc MRACDS (Ortho)
Caring for Adults and Children Ipswich’s only full time Specialist Orthodontist No travelling to Brisbane
Get your ‘no cost’ advice from one of our Kath Dickson Child Care Trainers 1300 304 194 info@kdfc.com.au www.kdfc.com.au
13 South Street Ipswich 4305 Ph: 3812 0865 www.ipswichorthodontics.com.au
LIMESTONE MEDICAL CENTRE
*Conditions apply
Dr David Chambers Dr Geoffrey Mitchell Dr Jonathan Thomas Dr Lesleigh Sands Dr Glen Walters Dr Katie Allen Dr Richard Chambers Dr Jessica Merlo Dr Anna Brooks
Furniture / Bedding Proudly supporting the Defence community
10 Brisbane Street, Ipswich 4305
Phone: 07 3281 4622
www.furniturecourt.com.au
Quality Furniture at affordable prices
serving Ipswich for over 60 years
www.bedsrus.com.au
Proud stockists of Quality Australian made bedding
Hobbies ESTABLISHED 1877
Your local Lazboy stockist
WE ARE HERE!
South St
30 South Street East St
Gordon St
- stocking an extensive range of Lazboy Recliners, Suites and Lift Chairs
Brisbane St
IPSWICH
30 South Street 07 3281 2977 www.furniturecourt.com.au
FurnCourt_2unit_DL2014.indd 1
OPEN 7 DAYS!
www.bedsrus.com.au
1/11/13 9:25 AM
Dr. Erica Oldfield (Dentist) 14 PRING ST IPSWICH
Ph. 3281 4425
TOOWOOMBA MEDICAL CENTRE Dr Peter Schindler Dr Donna Purcell Dr Christian Fandrich Dr Jeffrey Chai Dr Lawrence Wong 146 Drayton Road, Toowoomba 4350 Ph: 07 4635 6111 Fax: 07 4635 6144
Motor & Mechanical
C.J. VOGLER & SON
Limestone St
Dr. Andrew Josey (Dentist)
Grant Hamilton-Ritchie
Flexible delivery available to suit your needs
ting Keycut s Hobbie ls t Mode s a C e i D 138-140 Brisbane St, Ipswich Q 4305 P: 07 3281 1440 F: 07 3281 0166 M: 0409 895 428 E: cjvogler@bigpond.com W: www.voglers.com.au
Est. 1959
SMASH REPAIRS
Professional Smash Repairers • All work guaranteed
WINDOW TINTING AVAILABLE Phone 3281 3344 Fax 3812 1053 2 Cemetery Road Ipswich Web www.mcaullysmash.com.au Email admin@mcaullysmash.com.au
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QUEENSLAND
Tuition
Professional Tuition. Rebuild self confidence. Improves learning in English, Reading, Maths, Physics & Comprehension.
PROPRIETORS
STEPHEN & MICHELLE SAWYERS (AUST SWIM QUALIFIED)
Babies to Adults Teach - Learn to Swim to Squads Enclosed Heated Pool & Solar Heated Lap Pool
PHONE: (07) 5464 5174
40 FLAMETREE COURT, WALLOON
Veterinary & Pets FOR ALL yOuR PET NEEDS
•Birds •Kittens •Puppies •Guinea Pigs •Snakes •Scorpions •Turtles •Spiders •Lizards •Fish (cold/tropical) •Mice & Rats •Hermit Crabs •Bulk Seed and Produce •Pet Meat •Premium Dog/Cat Food
FRIENDLy SERVICE PLENTy OF PARKING
OPEN 7 DAyS
Shed 2B, Corner Briggs Rd & Parrot St, Raceview www.ipswichpetaquarium.com.au 7 Hooper Street, West Ipswich 4305
Ph: (07) 3281 3122
businessDIRECTORY Education
NEW SOUTH WALES
A caring learning envirnment
Medical & Dental 6921 5799 A Co-educational K -12 School in the Anglican Tradition
Latest Information Technology New Primary & Secondary facilities 19 % 2012 HSC students scored ATARS above 90
PH: 02 9725 7566
www.grg.nsw.edu.au
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Dr Gordon Saggers Dr Mark Wotherspoon Dr Helen Powis Glenda Ramirez — Hygienist Clair Waddell — Hygienist 122 Best Street Wagga Wagga
Notes
DefenceLife is a must-have publication for Defence families on the move, and for those resident on a current posting.
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Defence Life brings together a range of subjects directly relevant to Defence personnel and their families - information about Defence lifestyle, transfers to new locations and schools, career progression and eventual transition into civilian life. DefenceLife is unique, in that it is the only magazine for Defence families that combines such a broad range of topics - in print and online. Published annually - distributed throughout the year.
strikepublications.com.au alia
S across Austr AUSTRALIA TASMANIA DEFENCEFAMILIE Y TERRITORYVICTORIA SOUTH QUEENSLAND NORTHERN ERN AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITOR NEW SOUTH WALES WEST
Published by Strike Publications Pty Ltd Distributed Australia-wide to Australian Defence Force bases and to Defence Force families.
Want to advertise in DefenceLife 2015? Bookings are now open for DefenceLife 2015 - and all bookings placed before 31 March 2014 receive 10% earlybird discount!
Phone Chris Nelson on 07 3282 9019 to secure your position!
With a 12month shelf life, advertising in Defence Life gets noticed! Advertising:
T: 07 3282 9019
I
E: info@strikepublications.com.au
I
PO Box 124 Ipswich Q 4305
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