Transition from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is a process every member and their family will experience at some point in their career. 

If you’re considering transitioning to civilian life, Defence recommends following some simple steps to help you and your family stay on track:    

1. Raise the subject with your chain of command  
2. Discuss the move with your family or support network  
3. Consider options within the ADF such as Reserves or switching to a different service 
4. Attend an ADF member and family Transition Seminar  
5. Become aware of the costs of living civilians pay that ADF members receive as part of their conditions of service 
6. Learn more about the support services available to you and your family.  

 Practical resources to help you and your family prepare 

• Consider booking an appointment with a Veteran and Family Support Officer to discuss tailored support to your particular needs 
• The Transition Preparedness Questionnaire helps personnel build readiness and keep their wellbeing on track during the transition. Completing it gives members and the people supporting them a clearer view of their circumstances and support needs 
• The ADF Transition Guide is a free mobile app available on the Google Play and Apple Store that helps ADF personnel, Defence families, friends, and support persons understand and navigate the transition journey from service to civilian life 
• The Veteran Employment website has an array of resources available for veterans looking to kickstart their new career and the Partner Employment  
• The ADF Financial Services Customer Centre (ADF-FSCC) provides financial education for transitioning members and their families on topics such as budgeting, managing debt, and insurance.  

 Support outside Defence 

• Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency, 1800 823 922: connecting veterans and families with trusted support, information and services 
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs, (1800 VETERAN) 1800 838 372: general DVA line, open 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday 
• Open Arms, 1800 011 046: counselling and support programs for ADF personnel and their families, with a free-call all-hours crisis line and face-to-face support. 
• Safe Zone Support, 1800 142 072: free, anonymous counselling for serving personnel, veterans and families, with counsellors who understand military culture. 
• 1800 RESPECT, 1800 737 732: national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling 
• Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800: free, confidential 24/7 counselling for young people aged 5 to 25 
• 13 YARN, 13 92 76: crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. I added this number from memory, so please verify it 
• Beyond Blue, 1300 22 4636: mental health information and support 

If you need extra assistance finding wellbeing services and support for yourself or someone you know, visit our website for more information or call us on 1800 823 922.