This program has given me so much more than I ever expected. It has shown me the incredible support available within the Defence community and highlighted the wonderful people who are genuinely invested in helping us succeed.
The 2026 Cowork Coplay program has wrapped up in Adelaide, celebrating the achievements of this year’s graduating cohort, who have spent the past eight weeks pursuing professional and personal growth, making connections and creating practical pathways for their futures.
Participants, supporters, sponsors and veteran community stakeholders came together to mark the end of the program and recognise this year’s cohort.
Delivered by Human Quotient Group with support from Veterans SA, APOD, Lives Lived Well and The North East Defence Community, Cowork Coplay is a free program supporting people with a veteran connection to strengthen wellbeing, explore career opportunities and build meaningful community connections.
Now in its fourth year in Adelaide, the program has supported 45 adults and 26 children, with onsite childcare helping participants balance caring responsibilities while taking part.
Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler said the program is making a meaningful difference for Defence and veteran families across South Australia.
“We know service life can present unique challenges for spouses and partners, particularly around career continuity, connection and wellbeing,” Ms Wheeler said. “Programs like this build confidence, create strong networks and support participants to pursue their goals, strengthening both individuals and the broader veteran community.”
“Cowork Coplay also helps position South Australia as a destination of choice for Defence and veteran families by showing that we value not only those who serve, but the families who support them. When people know they can build careers, create connections and thrive here, it makes South Australia an even more attractive place to live, work and serve.”
Research shows nine out of 10 partners and spouses of Australian Defence Force members have made career sacrifices due to service life, with many experiencing higher rates of unemployment and underemployment than those without a Defence connection.
Cowork Coplay is designed to help address these challenges while highlighting the skills, experience and contribution Defence and veteran families bring to workplaces and communities. Participants were guided by facilitators, subject matter experts and mentors, creating opportunities to reflect, learn, take action and connect with others who understand the unique demands of service life.
For 2026 participant Bethan, the program fostered a strong sense of belonging during a period of significant change. Having relocated eight times in eight years, Bethan has experienced considerable upheaval, including a recent relocation from Sydney to Adelaide with her Defence spouse and young family. She has faced ongoing disruption, compounded by challenges in having her British qualifications recognised in Australia.
She joined Cowork Coplay after attending a Human Quotient Group Careers and Conversations event. Initially seeking help with her job search she found other aspects were more important for her current stage in life.
“This program has given me so much more than I ever expected,” Bethan said. “It has shown me the incredible support available within the Defence community and highlighted the wonderful people who are genuinely invested in helping us succeed.”
“One of the most valuable outcomes has been the friendships I’ve formed. I now have a wonderful group of women in my life who listen, support, and understand the unique challenges of this lifestyle.”
Borne from her own lived experience and personal understanding of Defence family life, Human Quotient Group Co-founder and Director Claire Harris said Cowork Coplay was a program that changed lives.
“As a Navy spouse of 15 years, I am proud of our family’s service and loved the adventure of living around Australia. However, navigating moves, raising a baby far from family, and career disruptions was often isolating and stressful,” Claire said.
“The Cowork Coplay program helps people reflect, learn, take action and create greater agency over their lives. It is a privilege to work with our team and walk alongside program participants as they pursue what matters to them and enhance their personal (and family) wellbeing.”
Find out more about Cowork Coplay program.
Photo by Human Quotient Group – Program participants and facilitators at the 2026 Cowork Coplay Adelaide event.
