This audit assessed the management and effectiveness of Defence Community Organisation’s delivery and coordination of support services to Australian Defence Force (ADF) families, in particular support services provided when an ADF member is seriously injured or ill, or dies in service.
Serving in the ADF exposes members to significant risks and personal pressures, which can also affect their families. Families may require support following the death, injury or illness of the ADF member; and while members are deployed, undergoing training or participating in exercises. The regular relocation within Australia of ADF members and their families can also affect their links to extended family and their integration into local communities.