Defence will soon modify the way in which it provides assistance to partners of service personnel who are having difficulties funding employment.
These benefits will also be available to LGBTI families, many whom were recognised through the streamlined processes introduced last year.
From 1 July 2017, Defence Community Organisation's Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP) will provide funding towards initiatives to partners, which may particularly be helpful when families are posted to a new locality. The changes seek to provide assistance to a greater number of Defence families across the board.
In each posting location, partners of Australian Defence Force service personnel can apply for up to $1500 funding to access the following employment-related initiatives:
- Mandatory fees for professional re-registration required when moving interstate under state or territory legislation.
- Professional employment services including:
- development of a personalised resume and/or resume coaching
- identification of transferrable skills
- employment options and job placement advice
- job search techniques and strategies
- development of an online employment profile
- application and selection criteria coaching
- preparation and presentation coaching for interviews
How to apply
Interested partners should read the PEAP guidelines before completing the PEAP application form. A quote from your chosen provider must be provided as part of your application.
Applicants should anticipate that it will take a minimum of 28 days from receipt of a complete application (including completed application form and required attachments) for an assessment to be made. Applicants will be notified in writing of the outcome of their application.
Funding is not guaranteed and is subject to the availability of sufficient funding in the relevant financial year.
Payment of this benefit may result in a reportable Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) amount being recorded against the Defence member, not the partner. Defence Community Organisation strongly advises you to seek financial advice about how this will affect your tax and benefits before committing to the program.
More information
If you’ve read the guidelines and still have questions, contact the all-hours Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
