With the start of a new year comes a series of new postings for ADF personnel and their families.
While posting to new locations can be a big change, Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) welcome events help personnel and their families settle in to their new communities.
With more than 1000 people in attendance, DMFS area manager for South Australia, Kate Crawford, said the South Australia welcome event was a one-stop shop for ADF personnel and their families.
"The South Australia welcome event helps families understand what the community has to offer. With over 40 stall holders in attendance, families had the opportunity to find out about the Defence and community support that is available to them," Ms Crawford said.
"We certainly know over time as a Defence member evolves through their career that their needs change to reflect their circumstances.
"Welcome events bring members of the Defence community together to share advice and support, no matter what phase of their career they might be in.
"With my social work background, I know how important it is for families to link up with the services they need or may possibly need in the future."
South Australia-based senior officer and 24 Squadron's base welfare officer, Squadron Leader Brendon Knopke, has immersed his kids into Adelaide life.
"The lifestyle in Adelaide is working well for us and I see it with other personnel in my work place. They get into a routine of sports and activities with their kids," he said.
Squadron Leader Knopke has moved 22 times in his career and says engagement in South Australia is better than it was in previous years.
"There were always a lot of families at the welcome events, but this time there are also a lot of couples without children and they were talking about how cool it is to have access to all the services that were there," Squadron Leader Knopke said.
"For me personally, trying to build a network in your new posting location is important because Defence is your family and I encourage others to do it as well."
All Defence personnel and their families are encouraged to contact DMFS for support at any time during their posting cycle. Visit the ADF Members and Families page for more information, or call the 24/7 helpline on 1800 624 608.
