About us
Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is the official Australian Defence Force (ADF) families advisory body to the Minister for Defence Personnel and Chief of the Defence Force (CDF).
As advisers to Defence, our organisation has an independent voice and impartiality to act in the best interests of ADF families.
We are connected to Defence family communities in our regions, and are largely veterans or family of Australian Defence Force members.
Video: An Introduction to Defence Families of Australia
*If you would like to view this video within Defence Protected Environment (DPE), please contact the DFA National Communications Officer.
We Advocate for Defence Families
We have National Delegates located across Australia near most major bases who know our communities.
Please contact us if:
- You would like advice on the best point of contact to resolve an issue
- You have been unsuccessful in resolving an issue through existing channels
- You identify an existing policy gap which affects your family.
Useful Contacts
Below are key contacts you should utilise in the first instance to resolve an issue or seek support.
If you need us to advocate for you as you have been unsuccessful in resolving an issue, please contact the DFA National Delegate closest to you as they have close links with local communities.
Have you called
Defence Member and Family Support?
Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) are the first point of call for Defence families seeking support, information or connection with their community.
They administer Defence programs and support for:
- Partner employment
- Childcare
- Education (including Defence School Mentors and Education Liaison Officers)
- Special needs
- Community connection
- Counselling services
- Crisis support
- and more…
The Helpline is available 24/7 and is staffed by qualified human services professionals including social workers and psychologists.
1800 624 608
memberandfamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au
Other Contacts
General
Defence Member and Family Support – 1800 624 608
Defence Member’s Chain of Command
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) – 1800 838 372
Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner – (email)
Removals and Housing
Toll Transitions – 1800 819 167
Defence Housing Australia – 139 342
Defence Relocations and Housing Managers (DRHM) (email)
The Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS) – 1300 434 627
Financial Assistance
ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre – (website)
Bravery Trust – 1800 272 837
National Debt Helpline – 1800 007 007
Army Relief Trust Fund – (02) 6144 7857
Royal Australian Navy Relief Trust Fund – (02) 6155 9864
Royal Australian Air Force Welfare Trust Fund – (02) 5130 9486
