We’re proud to support initiatives like Cowork Coplay that directly respond to the lived experiences of Defence partners
Participants in this year’s Cowork Coplay program have gained knowledge, skills, improved wellbeing and a sense of community, supporting them to take meaningful steps toward personal and professional success.
A record 17 partners took part in the eight-week program, which is designed to support career development, wellbeing and community connection for those impacted by the demands, and at times, uncertainty of military life.
Now in its third year, Cowork Coplay was created by a Defence spouse to respond to the specific challenges faced by Defence and veteran partners, including career disruptions, frequent relocations and social isolation.
Veterans SA has been a supporter of Cowork Coplay since the program was first piloted in Adelaide in 2023. Delivered by Human Quotient Group, the program features a series of facilitated workshops, activities and guest speakers covering topics such as career goal setting, wellbeing and accessing local employment opportunities.
Free onsite childcare further enhances the experience, providing a supportive environment that allows participants to fully focus on their development.
Claire Harris, Director and Co-founder of Human Quotient Group and program creator, said the 2025 program was successful in equipping participants with valuable tools for self-awareness, self-development and reflection, alongside practical skills they can use well beyond the program.
“It’s a privilege to witness the knowledge, determination, curiosity and deep empathy the participants bring to every session,” she said. “They are highly qualified, capable and innovative women who any employer would be lucky to have.”
Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler said the growth of the program demonstrates the importance of providing targeted and tailored support for Defence and veteran families.
“We’re proud to support initiatives like Cowork Coplay that directly respond to the lived experiences of Defence partners,” she said.
“Partners often face unique challenges that go unseen. Cowork Coplay shines a light on those experiences and provides practical and empowering support and resources, boosting the confidence, connection and long-term success of our veteran community here in SA.”
Empowered and connected
This year’s cohort included business owners, students and those pursuing roles in high-demand sectors, such as healthcare and education.
Among them was Jodilee Menezes, who is currently completing a Graduate Diploma in Child Health, while on maternity leave as a GP trainee and balancing the demands of parenting and military life.
She credits the program with supporting her studies, providing the tools to maintain her mental wellbeing and building meaningful connections with other participants.
“The program linked me with other Defence and veteran partners, helping me realise I’m not alone and that so many people have successfully navigated the Defence experience before me,” Jodilee said.
“Despite being brand new to South Australia, I already feel a sense of community and the new networks and information has equipped me to thrive well into the future, even after the program ends.”
For participant Marcela Ekin de Castro, the support from the program came at an ideal time. Having recently relocated to South Australia with her family, Marcela now faces the challenge of settling into a new community while her husband is posted back to Perth.
“Cowork Coplay has given me the grounding, the tools and a brighter, more empowered outlook to face the prospect of embracing this new city, on my own with my children,” she said.
“For the first time, I’ve had access to so many useful resources all in one program, directly connecting me to opportunities in Adelaide I didn’t know existed.
“It introduced me to new ways of thinking about self-care, my career, personal branding and how to face the job market with fresh eyes.”
Confidence building initiative
Katie Harrigan also benefited from this year’s program, which empowered her with the mindset, tools and support to turn her vision for a health and nutrition business into reality.
“It was great to bounce ideas off the participants and program staff. I also appreciated their shared enthusiasm when I ticked off goals, such as making my website live, designing and ordering my business cards and working out referrals,” Katie said.
Fellow participant Joanne Cook echoed the sentiment, adding that the program provided a new sense of purpose.
“I’m so grateful for Cowork Coplay. It’s given me confidence, a renewed sense of purpose, and something to genuinely look forward to each Monday,” she said.
“I’ve learned mindfulness techniques that I now use in both my personal and professional life, and I’ve gained practical tools for job searching. I only wish Cowork Coplay had been available at my previous posting locations!”
Learn more about the Cowork Coplay program.
Read the media release.
