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PRODUCTS AND SERVICES AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS OF THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE ORGANISATION AND VETERANS

Introduction
Defence is recognised as one of the largest employers in Australia. In recognition of Defence’s
contribution to the Nation numerous suppliers of products and services provide tailored products
to Defence personnel as a goodwill gesture. This brochure contains products and services that are
available to Defence members including, ADF members, Defence civilians, and Defence
contractors. Some products are available to Retired ADF members and Department of Veterans’
Affairs (DVA) Gold and White Card recipients. Spouses of eligible persons may also take
advantage of some products and services.
The information provided herein is a guide only. Not all products and services are available to all
members; certain eligibility criteria may apply (check the eligibility guide - below). There may
also be special conditions applicable to the product or service that you are interested in, check
with the provider. It is your responsibility to check with the product or service provider to
ascertain if the product or service you are considering to purchase meets your requirements. Shop
around before making a commitment to purchase. Suitable proof of identity may be requested at
the time of purchase.
Eligibility Guide
This eligibility guide is provided as an indication only, it does not imply any priority for
acceptance by the service provider. Look for these numbers in each section to see if you’re
eligible.
1 ADF full-time service (including Reservists on full-time service)
2 Retired ADF and/or ADF superannuants
3 ADF Reservists not on full-time service
4 Defence civilians
5 Defence contractors and their staff
6 As specified by the provider in their product description
Proof of Eligibility
The following forms of identification for eligibility are acceptable to the providers, provided the
identification is current:
a. Defence ID Card for ADF full-time and Reserve members.
b. Defence ID Card for Defence civilians and Defence contractors.
c. ADF Superannuants – Yearly Statement from COMSUPER.
d. Letter of introduction from Unit/Ship administration on official departmental letterhead
(only to be used for personnel that have an out of date identity card).
e. DVA Gold or White Card.
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WebPages and Links
Information about these products and services is available on the DPSA web site on both the
DEFWEB and Internet.
a. DEFWEB – visit (http://defweb.cbr.defence.gov.au/dpsa/)
b. INTERNET - visit (http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpsa/)
Down load Information
This document may be down loaded from either of these sites and reproduced for your personal
use or for distribution to other members of Defence and Veterans.
Call Centres
Some providers use call centres to manage customer service requirements. When contacting
providers using call centres, explain fully what product you wish information about. Remember
that call centre operators do not necessarily have in-depth knowledge about the products or
services that the call centre handles on behalf of their clients.
Goodwill
The provision of products and services by providers listed in this guide is based on the provider’s
goodwill towards Defence. If you are happy with what has been offered to you let others know.
User Comments and Feedback
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this document. If
you have any feedback on the information listed, contact the Directorate of Personnel Support
and Amenities (DPSA) R1-1-C054, Russell Offices, CANBERRA ACT 2600.
Contents
The following material is discussed in this document:
a. Holidays - Recreational Accommodation and Travel
b. Health Benefits and Insurance Products
c. Insurance Tips
d. ADF Base and Ship Canteen Services
e. Discount Purchasing
f. ADF Welfare Support - Relief Trust Funds
g. Home Loans
h. Credit Unions
i. Consumer Help Online - Handbook
HOLIDAYS - RECREATIONAL ACCOMMODATION AND TRAVEL
ADF Holiday Resorts
The RAN, Army and RAAF have holiday resorts situated in various holiday locations around
Australia with varying standards of accommodation and facilities. Each Service is responsible for
the management of their resorts, including the eligibility criteria. Serving and retired ADF
members and Defence civilians are eligible to make bookings. The ADF has reciprocal rights
with the NZ Defence Force concerning use of NZ holiday resorts by serving and retired members
of the ADF. A complete list of ADF Holiday Accommodation is available on the DPSA website.
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More information on the RAN Holiday Facilities is available at
http://www.navy.gov.au/general/holiday/index.htm. Information on Army and RAAF Holiday
Resorts is available by contacting the business operations unit of DPSA on (02) 6265 2797 or on
the DPSA web pages on both the DEFWEB and Internet.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,4
Defence Force Accommodation Program (DFAP)
The DFAP is a discount accommodation program provided by Flag Choice Hotels. DFAP offers
accommodation in all Flag properties within Australia and at affiliated hotels across the world.
DFAP may be used for business or leisure. Rates vary depending on location and type of
accommodation required. Suitable proof of eligibility will be requested at check-in when
commencing your stay. Officers and Instructors of Cadets (adult) and visiting forces personnel
may also utilise DFAP. To obtain the DFAP rates, all bookings should be made within Australia,
telephone 13 2400 and request the DFAP rate. For general information and the location of all
properties, including prices (Govt/Military Rates), visit the Flag Choice Hotels website at
www.choicehotels.com.au. When you access this site to check on hotel locations, do the
following:
a. Quick Search – enter city/town (this will list hotels in that location).
b. Select the hotel of your choice from list and select the rates and availability box.
c. Complete the required information and select the Government/Military Program box.
d. Complete the on-line reservation or ring 132 400 to make and confirm your reservation and
to ensure that DFAP rates are obtained.
Discounted car rental is available from Flag Choice Hotels preferred vehicle supplier. Check the
link on the Flag Choice Hotels home page. When booking a car quote the Rate Code “DFAP” to
obtain preferential rates.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,4,5,6
Defence Force Leave Plan (DFLP)
The DFLP is a leisure accommodation plan undertaken by Intercontinental Hotels Group DFLP
must not be used for business travel. DFLP offers hotel rooms in any Intercontinental Hotel
property in Australia and around the world at very attractive rates. Rates vary depending on
location and type of accommodation required. Suitable proof of eligibility will be requested at
check-in when commencing your stay. Officers and Instructors of Cadets (adult) and visiting
forces personnel may also utilise DFLP. For reservations phone 1300 363 300 and request DFLP
rates when making your booking. For general information and the location of all properties,
including prices (Govt/Military Rates), visit the Intercontinental Hotels Group website at
www.ichotelsgroup.com. When you access this site to check on hotel locations, do the following:
a. Select – Find a Hotel and complete the information required.
b. Select – Fed/Gov/Mil rates and check availability.
c. Complete the on-line reservation or ring 1300 363 300 to make and confirm your
reservation and to ensure DFLP rates are obtained.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,4,5,6
Note: Eligible recipient’s spouses and immediate family members may be eligible to use the
commercial accommodation concessions that are available. Contact the DFAP or DFLP provider
for details. A letter of introduction from the eligible recipient may be requested by the providers.
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Vehicle Hire
Hertz offers the Defence corporate rates and most conditions for leisure rentals. Anyone with a
current Defence security pass can access these rates and book via the Defence reservation Toll
Free Number - 1800 009 545. Please quote CDP number 1489013 to access leisure rates.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,4,5
Air Travel
Leisure air travel is available from numerous sources within Australia and overseas. It is
advisable that you check airline special deals on respective web sites to obtain the best possible
fare that will meet your requirements.
Eligibility: - 6
HEALTH BENEFITS AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS
Health Benefits Products
Health insurance is offered by Defence Health Limited (DefenceHealth) and Navy Health Ltd
(Navy Health) 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. Conditions apply. Contact DefenceHealth on 1800 335 425 or visit the
DefenceHealth website at: www.defencehealth.asn.au and Navy Health can be contacted on 1800
333 156 or visit the Navy Health website at: www.navyhealth.com.au.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,4,5
Life Insurance – DefenceHealth and Navy Health
Life cover is available from both Defence health funds under certain conditions. DefenceHealth
Life cover does provide coverage for operational deployments, under strict conditions. Navy
Health may or may not offer this operational cover, dependent on an applicant’s circumstance at
the time of application. Many other providers of personal Life insurance products have “War
Exclusion Clauses”. Contact the respective health fund for details.
Eligibility: - 6
Services Security Plan
The Services Security Plan is an accident protection insurance product tailored to meet the
special needs of service personnel. Cover in operational areas is available. There is no death
benefits component in this plan. Contact the Underwriters direct on 1800 650 224 and request an
information pack.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,4,5
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Home Support Program for Service Partners
Associate Members of the Australian Automobile Association (AAA); NRMA, RACV, RACQ,
RAASA, RACWA, RACT and AANT provide a home support program for eligible partners
(spouse or de facto) of ADF members serving (unaccompanied) overseas on full time service.
The products available under this program include discounted membership, roadside assistance
and insurance. There are three categories of membership available. Enquiries may be made on
free-call 1800 061 094 or information is available from regional Defence Community
Organisation offices. Visit the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) website at:
www.aaa.asn.au.
Eligibility: - 6
INSURANCE TIPS
Regularly review insurance coverage to ensure your needs and those of your dependants are
adequately covered.
Do not wait until you are warned for deployment to address your personal insurance needs.
In some case if you are warned for deployment, you may not be able to apply for Life
cover.
Make sure you fully understand what is and what is not covered by any insurance product
that you may be considering.
Read the provider’s prospectus and ask questions about the product. Check the document
completely before making any commitment to purchase.
When changing addresses, make sure you inform your insurance provider in writing.
Maintain correspondence that you may have with insurance providers for future reference.
ADF BASE AND SHIP CANTEEN SERVICES
Frontline Defence Services (FDS) and RAN Canteen Services
When you purchase from your FDS or RAN canteens outlet some of the profits generated by
sales are returned to respective Services for re-investment in welfare and amenities provision for
ADF members.
FDS - Offer a range of goods and services at competitive prices at selected ADF bases around
Australia, on exercise and overseas operations. An interest-free payment plan is available to fulltime
serving ADF members on a range of furniture and electrical goods. RAN personnel on fulltime
service may utilise the payment plan. Visiting Forces personnel may utilise the facilities (not
the payment plan). Contact your nearest outlet for details or visit their website:
www.frontlineds.com.au.
Eligibility: - 1,3,4,5,6
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RAN Canteens - Offer a range of goods and services at competitive prices and access to a range
of white goods on RAN Bases. Canteens are established on major RAN Ships. Visiting Forces
personnel may utilise facilities. Contact your nearest outlet for details or visit their website:
http://www.ranccf.com/
Eligibility: - 1,3,4,5,6
DISCOUNT PURCHASING
Defcom Protectors
Defcom Protectors is a discount-purchasing scheme provided by Defcom Marketing Systems.
Defcom Protectors offers to ADF members and families a wide range of discounted products and
services from participating merchants across Australia. Defcom Protectors is available to ADF
members, ex ADF members who served at least 15 years or have reached compulsory retirement
age, ex members who have served in an armed conflict in which Australia was involved. Also
available to ex Reservist who have met the criteria for receipt of long service awards and
recognised spouses of ADF members and parents/parents-in-law. Defcom Protectors cards are
available from unit orderly rooms or your organisation’s shopfront. Defcom Protectors provides a
comprehensive listing of participating merchants in the form of a discount directory. Contact
Defcom Protectors on 07-3278 4333 or fax 07-3278 4200 for further details or visit the Defcom
Protectors website: www.defcom.com.au. The Defcom Protectors card should be presented to
participating merchants before purchase.
Eligibility: - 1,2,3,6
Additional Sources of Discounted Products
The Services newspapers, other Defence news media, the two Defence health funds and Defence
credit unions have advertisers who provide products and services at special rates to readers and/or
members that may be available to you. Most unions and professional associations offer
concessions packages for their members, check with your union or association to find out what
they may be.
Flexible Remuneration Packaging (FRP)
FRP is an arrangement whereby employees can choose to select a combination of cash salary and
other remuneration benefits to suit their needs. FRP can be used to package up to 50% of an
employee’s salary. Non-cash benefits can include items such as leased cars, childcare, lap top
computers and additional contributions to private superannuation funds. FRP may be beneficial
to employees as items that are packaged are deducted from your salary (pre tax) with the balance
of salary remaining being subject to income tax.
Before employees enter into a FRP arrangement, Defence advises that they seek financial
counseling. The provider charges participants in FRP for the establishment and administration of
the packaging arrangements. The costs involved in establishing the FRP may be included in the
package arrangement.
Further information is available by visiting http://defweb.cbr.defence.gov.au/frp or the service
provider (Smart Salary) at: www.smartsalary.com.au or free call 1800 632 496.
Eligibility: - 1,4 (except trainees)
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ADF WELFARE SUPPORT - RELIEF TRUST FUNDS
Trust Fund Loans to ADF Members
ADF members including Reservist on full-time duty may be eligible for assistance from
respective single Service Relief Trust Funds - AMFRTF, RANRTF and RAAFWTF. Loans may
be interest and/or fee-free. A Fund Secretary on behalf of the Fund Trustees manages the Funds
along single Service lines. Strict eligibility criteria are applied to applications. For further
information contact the following:
RANRTF - Fund Secretary Ph: (02) 6266 6887
AMFRTF - Fund Secretary peter.elliott@defence.gov.au Ph: (02) 6265 6197
RAAFWTF - Fund Secretary russ.thompson@defence.gov.au Ph: (02) 6266 3650
Eligibility: - check with respective Fund
Family Support
The Defence Community Organisation (DCO) has several programs in place offering family
support and relief. One such program is the Defence Families Financial Emergency Fund
(DFFEF) which assists families in need of immediate welfare relief and support while members
are deployed or absent from the family home for extended periods. For more information on the
range of DCO services and DFFEF contact the Family Information Network for Defence (FIND)
on (toll free) 1800 020 031.
Eligibilty: - 6
HOME LOANS
Defence Home Loan Scheme (DHLS)
The DHLS through National Australia Bank (NAB) is available to ADF members and retired
members within two years of discharge. Eligibility criteria apply, depending on length and type
of service. Maximum loan per member is $80,000. Contact any NAB for details of eligibility or
the administrators of the scheme the Defence Housing Authority (DHA). Visit the DHA’s
information page for the DHLS at: www.dha.gov.au.
Defence Service Home Loans (DSHL)
The DSHL through Westpac Bank are available to ADF members who have qualifying service.
Maximum loan amount is $25,000 per member. Contact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs or
Westpac for details of eligibility. Visit DVA’s information page for DSHL at:
www.dva.gov.au/housing/dshhome.htm.
Eligibility: - 6
Note: Members are not entitled to both the above home loans.
Superannuation Schemes and Professional Associations – Home Loans
If you are a contributor to a superannuation scheme or a member of a professional association
you may be eligible to apply for a home loan through your superannuation scheme or
professional association. Check with your provider for further details.
Productssvcsfordefenceorg1b Correct as at 19/01/05

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:



HOW WILL YOU COMMEMORATE ANZAC DAY?



For almost 96 years Anzac Day has had a central place in the hearts and minds of Australians.

Anzac Day is a reminder of the debt of gratitude that we owe as a nation to the Anzacs, to those who are currently serving and to those who have served in the past.

The Anzac tradition was born on the shores of Gallipoli during the First World War, when Australians embarked on their first large scale campaign in a major international conflict as a newly formed federated nation.

The exploits of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps in 1915 forged a legend of courage, resourcefulness, determination and mateship.
During the next three years of the First World War, these qualities were exhibited by Australians in every theatre of war in which they fought, particularly in the Middle East and on the Western Front.

Australia suffered horrific losses with more than 60,000 deaths in the First World War, an extraordinary sacrifice for a young nation with a population of just four and a half million at the time.

A generation decimated by this horrific bloody campaign.

Australians played an important role in many of the pivotal battles leading to the eventual Allied victory in 1918 over the German forces who were occupying large areas of France and Belgium. During the course of the war Australian troops fought bravely with 64 men awarded the Victoria Cross for valour.

The Anzac spirit remained a source of inspiration for Australians in conflict throughout the last century, including the Second World War, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan, Rwanda, Timor Leste and the Solomon Islands. And invariably Australia has deservedly earned a reputation for raising tough, resilient and disciplined military forces, well respected by our international allies.

This year has particular significance as we commemorate the 60th anniversaries of the Battles of Kapyong and Maryang San in the Korean War as well as the 70th anniversaries of the Siege of Tobruk and Australia’s involvement in the Allied campaigns in Greece and Crete in the Second World War.

It is vital we take the opportunity each Anzac Day to again remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice and express our appreciation to all veterans who have put their lives on the line, and continue to do so, to protect Australia and our interests.

In 2011, as well as the traditional services at Gallipoli, Australians will take part in Anzac Day services at some of the most significant sites in our wartime history.

Commemorations this year will include services abroad at Villers-Bretonneux and Bullecourt (France), London (England), the Kokoda Track (Papua New Guinea), Sandakan (Malaysia) and Hellfire Pass (Thailand).

There will also be services in Afghanistan and Timor Leste and the many places around the world where members of the Australian Defence Force are currently serving, carrying on the Anzac tradition, as well as in almost every town and city, however small, across the nation.

We need no reminding that today we are at war and that in Afghanistan, Australian personnel are constantly putting their lives on the line, doing their nation's bidding in the best of the Anzac tradition.

These brave men and women will know that they are in our thoughts this Anzac Day.

As the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, I encourage each and every Australian to find new ways to commemorate Anzac Day keeping the spirit Anzac alive across the globe on 25 April 2011.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has a comprehensive website at www.dva.gov.au/anzac/

with information on planned activities, historical overviews of wars and conflicts and other excellent resources which can be downloaded directly from the site.

I encourage anyone who may have personal links to those who have died in conflict to contact the Office of Australian War Graves (wargraves@dva.gov.au) which is available to assist in locating the final resting place of a relative. The Overseas War Memorials Search (http://memorials.dva.gov.au/) provides information on many of the overseas memorials to the Australian military.

It is important that all Australians take time on Anzac Day to pause and remember the more than 102,000 Australian service personnel who have lost their lives in wars and conflicts since the turn of the 20th century.

We must recognise the sacrifices of our serving men and women who continue to fight and risk their lives in defence of our nation, to uphold our values and for the ideals of a more peaceful and stable world community.

We all owe them, and their families, forever a debt of gratitude.

Lest we forget.


The Hon Warren Snowdon MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on the Centenary of Anzac

Still time to register for Anzac Day updates FRANCE OR GALLIPOLI

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon, reminded Australians travelling to
Villers-Bretonneux, France, or Gallipoli, Turkey, for Anzac Day commemorations on 25 April this
year that there was still time to register for updates.

Mr Snowdon said that the information services provided important updates for the overseas
commemorations, including practical tips on what to bring and what to expect.
“I encourage Australians attending Anzac Day commemorations in France or Gallipoli to register
their details online before they depart. These services will ensure travellers come fully prepared
for what is a once in a lifetime experience,” he said.

The France and Gallipoli registration services provide travellers with helpful information on what
to expect on the day, what to bring and wear, weather conditions, traffic arrangements or
services, and information in the event of an emergency.

Updates are provided direct to recipients via text message or email or both.
“Each year thousands of people attend Anzac Day commemorations in France and Gallipoli.
I encourage those who are planning to attend, but have not yet registered, to do so soon to

make the most of this valuable information service
In previous years up to 7,000 people have attended the Dawn Service at Gallipoli and some

3,000 at Villers-Bretonneux.
Similar numbers are expected again in 2011.


Registration is not mandatory but is a way for Australian travellers to stay informed.
To register for France updates visit www.franceregistration.com. To register for Gallipoli
updates visit www.gallipoliregistration.com.

For more information about Anzac Day commemorations in France or Gallipoli visit

www.dva.gov.au/anzac

Anzac Day care packages for ADF members serving overseas

Following requests from a number of community-based organisations and private citizens, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has established special mailing addresses for members of the public to send Anzac Day care packages to service men and women serving on operations overseas.


The ADF Joint Operations Command Director of General Support, Brigadier Dianne Gallasch, said she is moved by the desire among ordinary Australians to remember those currently serving overseas on the day the nation honours all who have made the ultimate sacrifice in present and past conflicts.

“To be serving on operations on Anzac Day is an experience no sailor, soldier, airman or airwoman forgets,” Brigadier Gallasch said.

“The significance of the challenges and sacrifices made by those who have gone before them is all the more poignant when they stop to commemorate Anzac Day on foreign soil. To know that complete strangers back home are thinking of them on this significant day and have sent a small care package is extremely heartening.”

Members of the public are able to send parcels through Australia Post, so long as they do not exceed a 2kg cubic weight limit. Items weighing up to 2kg and posted in a ‘BM’ size Australia Post carton can be posted without cost to the sender. Parcels exceeding this limit will incur full postal charges which must be paid by the sender.

The postal addresses are active from 14 March until 15 April 2011 and packages will be distributed throughout the appropriate operational areas. For postal security reasons, parcels must be posted in person with presentation of photograph identification and can be lodged at any Australia Post outlet, using the following addresses:

Middle East:

An Australian Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Airwoman
Anzac Day Mail
Middle East Operations
AFPO 60
Australian Defence Force NSW 2890

East Timor

An Australian Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Airwoman
Anzac Day Mail
East Timor Operations
AFPO 61
Australian Defence Force NSW 2890

Solomon Islands
An Australian Soldier/Sailor/Airman/Airwoman
Anzac Day Mail
Solomon Islands Operations
AFPO 62
Australian Defence Force NSW 2890

Brigadier Gallasch said deployed service men and women usually have access to essential personal items and those care package items most often appreciated include uniquely Australian treats such as lollies, as well as magazines, books and DVDs.

“Defence subsidises care packages to deployed personnel for Anzac Day and Christmas each year. For Christmas last year, some 10 tonnes of care packages were sent to deployed personnel by members of the public, boosting morale and providing a welcome treat,” Brigadier Gallasch said.

“On behalf of those members of the ADF who will receive care packages this Anzac Day, I would like to thank the public and community groups, particularly the RSL, for their thoughtfulness and kindness.”

Information on sending Anzac Day messages and care packages is available on the Defence website at http://www.defence.gov.au/anzacday/mail/index.htm.

An alternate option to individual members of the public sending care packages is to donate to the RSL Australian Forces Overseas Fund (AFOF). Twice a year the AFOF provides packages to Australian Defence Force, Australian Federal Police and AusAID personnel serving overseas. Further information regarding the AFOF is available on the RSL web site (http://www.rsl.org.au/).

Injured RAN sailor left without enough money to feed himself

Fighting ... Karl Andrews with his daughter Chloe / Pic: Nicholas Welsh Source: The Daily Telegraph




FORMER high-achieving navy sailor is having to eat every second day so he can support his eight-year-old daughter on just $130 a week.

When Karl Andrews' back was seriously injured in a workplace accident, RAN doctors wrongly fed him a cocktail of prescription drugs - including morphine.
He became addicted to the drug and was medically discharged in 2002 and labelled "drug dependent".

While military accident victims are now entitled to a tax-free pension and free medical benefits, the former navy communicator is not - which means his annual $30,000 pension is taxed and docked for child support for his two older children.

Injured Service Persons Association president Ray Brown said Mr Andrews' case was not an isolated one. Despite having fought for total and permanent incapacity status for 10 years, he was ignored by both sides of politics.

"The doctors say he can't work and if he was on a [TPI] pension he would not be taxed or assessed for child support," Mr Brown said.

He would receive a gold card for free healthcare, free public transport and car registration and other benefits.

"Because of the navy I'm forever a drug addict and I struggle with it every day. I can't live like this," Mr Andrews said.
He hopes to contact other veterans in a similar situation to form a support group. A spokeswoman for Veterans Affairs Minister Warren Snowdon said that no defence personnel were disadvantaged in treatment for accepted medical conditions no matter what legislation they were covered by.

Ian McPhedran
From: The Daily Telegraph
March 09, 2011 12:00AM

Why Yoga for PTSD?

The Veterans Yoga Project


Yoga does not cure PTSD. Yoga practices are, however, a valuable complement to professional treatment for PTSD.   PTSD is a complex psychological disorder that can be effectively treated with professional evidence-based psychotherapy. Unfortunately, even evidence-based psychotherapies do not work for many Veterans, and leave many other Veterans with residual symptoms. A mindful, embodied yoga practice can help provide relief from some of the symptoms of PTSD, and can help provide the supportive skills that are needed in other psychotherapeutic modalities. Yoga will not eliminate a Veteran’s PTSD symptoms, but it can support and aid in a Veteran’s healing journey.

Yoga has worked so well with many Veterans who are coping with PTSD and other trauma-related psychological difficulties because it brings them back into their body. It helps them sleep more soundly. It helps them transform anger. It helps them rediscover curiosity. It helps them experience love and happiness. It gives them the opportunity to live at their own pace and find their own truth. Veterans with PTSD use yoga as a method to regain control over a nervous system that is always “on edge”, and to regain control over self-destructive behaviors and habits. Since trauma lies in the body, mind, and spirit, we can use a holistic, integrated yoga practice to re-connect with ourselves as we are in the present moment, letting us feel comfortable in our own skin.

The healing effects of ancient yoga practices have begun to receive validation from modern science. Researchers have started to discover the pathways by which the physical postures and movements, meditation, and breathing practices support healing. In fact, many of the techniques used in yoga are strikingly similar to strategies used by clinical psychologists in the treatment of anxiety disorders including PTSD. (Veterans Yoga Project is working on a Virtual Library of resources-check back soon. In the meantime, check out our references page).

Mindful Yoga Therapy for Veterans Coping with Trauma is an empirically-informed, clinically-tested program consisting of a variety of "tools" that can help connect the mind and body. These practices or "tools" include breathing practices (pranayama), meditation, physical postures and movements (asana), and a specific form of guided imagery/meditation (Yoga Nidra). We invite you to give it a try.

DFWA MONTHLY UPDATE #257 – 15 February 2011

UPDATE is a monthly news sheet produced by the Defence Force Welfare Association containing current items of interest to the Service and ex-Service community. It is widely distributed to Members of Parliament,
media outlets, senior Service and Public Service Officers and DFWA members.

THE FAIR INDEXATION BILL

On 10 February 2011 the Senate scheduled debate on the Bill proposed by the Shadow Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson, to index military pensions in line with the Coalition's pre
election commitment. If passed, the Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefits Amendment (Fair Indexation) Bill 2010 will enable DFRDB (and DFRB) superannuants aged 55 and over from 1 July 2011 to
have their pensions indexed at the higher rate of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Male Total Average Weekly Earnings (MTAWE) or the Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI).

The debate was delayed and has been rescheduled for debate on 3 March 2011. Unsettlingly, the Government has suggested that this Bill (along with a number of others) is “unconstitutional”, as it involves introducing 'money bills' in the Senate. The disagreement about this rages on between the Houses (s53 of the
Constitution refers) and we shall see what transpires. A hung Parliament can toss up many conundrums !

During debate in the Senate on 10 February, the Greens indicated that they will not support any Bill that puts a burden on the budget without there being a mechanism for funding. Indeed if there is a reluctance to place any further “burden on the budget” then an analysis of the excess earnings of the Future Fund provides a strong argument for affordability at no conceivable extant cost to the “on-book” budget. The Association, in concert with the Superannuated Commonwealth Officers Association has made representations along these lines, providing an analysis of how the Future Fund could be utilised.

Finally, the Association was disappointed in the advice provided to Senators and MPs by the Parliamentary Library on the Bill in its Bill Digest #55, finding it flawed in many aspects. The Association has issued its own commentary on the Bill and this has been distributed to all Senators and MPs.

We again call upon all elected Senators and Members of Parliament to show their support for the military and veteran community by supporting the legislation, and following up with further legislation to ensure all military superannuants are included. In particular, we call on those independent members who have previously voiced their support for the provisions contained within the legislation, to show their support by voting accordingly.

LIVING-COST RISES OUTPACE INFLATION

The Association welcomes the confirmation in today’s The Age that living-cost indices released by the Bureau of Statistics show the increases facing families, age pension households and welfare beneficiaries have all outpaced the CPI. Working households faced extra costs of 4.5 per cent in the year to December,
age pensioners 3.1 per cent and welfare recipients 4.5 per cent. The CPI grew 2.7 per cent. The bureau says there are different reasons for each group. Age pensioners spend a relatively high proportion of their income on utility bills and fruit and vegetables, both of which shot up in price in the year to December.

Does this mean the consumer price index is a poor guide to living costs? The bureau says it does. It is meant to be a measure of inflation rather than living costs, a very different concept, which is why the bureau produces separate living-cost indices.

The good news for pensioners is they get a choice. Their payments are adjusted twice a year in line with eitherthe CPI, the Pensioner and Beneficiary Living-Cost Index or Male Total Average Earnings, whichever has increased the fastest. For Military superannuants of course there is only bad news!

SENATE QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

On a closely related matter, the Department of Finance and Deregulation continues to drag its heels by its delays in responding to the Questions placed by Senator Humphries on 16 November 2010 on matters relating to the flawed Matthews report and other matters relating to indexation. To date, replies to just one question out of nine have been received, and that over two months after it was due.

REVIEW OF DVA FUNDED ADVOCACY AND WELFARE SERVICES REPORT

The Association will closely examine the Review of Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)–Funded Ex-Service Organisation (ESO) Advocacy and Welfare Services Report which was released yesterday.

Whilst the aims of the review are laudable – ie, to provide a prescribed framework to ensure veterans, war widow/ers and their families have access to quality advocacy, welfare and support services – there may be unexpected consequences that will need close examination.

The Review covered the Building Excellence in Support and Training Program (BEST), Training Information Program (TIP), and the Veteran and Community Grants (V&C) program.

MINISTER’S RESPONSE - RELEASE OF SERVICE RECRDS

The Association was pleased to receive a detailed response from the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel to our concerns about the release of Service Records by the National Archives. The Minister acknowledged that the fairness of a particular decision to release information is not an issue that can be easily
resolved.

Of specific interest was the Minister’s advice that both the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and the Federal Court have determined that information relating to a person’s professional affairs, including their employment performance, is not considered to be their personal affairs. The Association acknowledges this however suggests that ADF records are, by their nature, more detailed and contain more sensitive and personal information than any civilian employment record would contain!

The Minister also advises that the National Archives policy for the release of deceased members’ medical information is that it will release information unless it contains information about medical conditions that are hereditary and that such release may constitute an unreasonable disclosure of a third party’s personal affairs.

However, the Association wonders whether National Archives officers are medically qualified to make such a decision?

OUR THANKS TO THE ADF

The Association, along with its partners in the Alliance of Defence Service Organizations, expresses its thanks to the ADF for the support provided in the recent natural disasters that have plagued Australia. Once again the true grit of the members of the ADF was on display for the Nation to see and the community owes them a great deal.

We offer our sincere and profound sympathies to all those who were adversely impacted by the disasters.

Media Contacts

Executive Director:

Les Bienkiewicz 0411 444248
http://www.dfwa.org.au/
National President:

David Jamison 0416 107557

Robert S Buick MM JP - Gallantry award

Last year the Australian government awarded the highest unit gallantry citation to D Company the Sixth Battalion Royal Australian Regiment for its gallantry in the Battle of Long Tan 18 August 1966.


LtCol Smith was awarded the nation’s second highest individual gallant award, the Star of Gallantry, and 2Lts Kendall and Sabben the Medal for Gallantry earlier in 2009.

LtCol Harry Smith SG MC arranged with Her Excellency the Governor General for the investiture of the three officers of their Gallantry Awards and the company members the Unit Citation for Gallantry (UCG) and the next of kin of those veterans now dead to be done at Yarralumla.

The G-G agreed but this important and significant event was stymied by the Chief of Defence and Defence Department. The government refused to approve the transport arrangements for members from their place of residence to Canberra and return.

The veterans, and those of the veteran community who were aware of this refusal, were angry and disappointed. There is still no date when the veterans will be awarded with the UCG emblem and Harry Smith will have his Star of Gallantry pinned to his chest during a function at Maryborough early March by his local federal Member of Parliament..

Today I have received two phone calls from Long Tan veterans who are again spitting chips because the Australian government flew detained illegal entries from Christmas Island to attend the funeral for those who tragically died when the boat they used from Indonesia was shipwrecked on Christmas Island late last year. I accept and applauded this humanitarian service but I too am not happy with the CDF and Defence Department refusing war veterans their honour they are also entitled to.

They could not understand how, or why, their government would approved the cost for non citizens to attend a funeral yet deny this nation’s war veterans transport to Canberra to received Gallantry awards from the Governor General.



Robert S Buick MM JP
24 Mountain Ash Drive
Mountain Creek 4557 Qld
07 5452 5890
strait8@bigpond.com

Government to replace medals lost in natural disasters

Directorate of Honours and Awards

 
 
 
Government to replace medals lost in natural disasters




Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator the Hon David Feeney, today announced that the Government will relax the policy on replacement of Australian Defence Force (ADF) medals so that medals lost during the Queensland and Victorian floods, the impact of Cyclone Yasi and the fires in Western Australia can be replaced.

“Government policy for many years has been medals can only be issued to the ADF member who earned them,” Senator Feeney said.

“This usually means that medals cannot be replaced if they are lost or destroyed after the ADF member has died.”

Where medals are lost in natural disasters, however, this policy may be relaxed. This was done following the Victorian bushfires in 2009.

“While the Government is committed to maintaining the integrity of our system of military honours and awards, there are circumstances in which the Australian community rightly expects us to show greater flexibility in implementing the existing policy. I believe this unprecedented series of natural disasters is one of those circumstances,” Senator Feeney said.

“I have therefore decided that ADF medals may be reissued to the next of kin or other appropriate relative of deceased ADF members, if the medals have been lost or destroyed in the current natural disasters. Family members who have, in the course of these natural disasters, lost the medals of loved ones, may now make application for replacements.

“Unfortunately, however, only medals dating back to the First World War can be replaced. Medals for conflicts prior to this war are no longer in production.”

Applicants should use the application form and statutory declaration located on the Defence Honours and Awards website at: www.defence.gov.au/medals

Completed applications should be submitted to: Directorate of Honours and Awards

Department of Defence, PO Box 7952, Canberra BC, ACT 2610. Enquiries may also be directed to Defence Honours and Awards toll free on 1800 111 321.