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Planning for Transition

Planning for Transition

It’s important that you start to prepare for transition as early as possible as there can be a lot to consider. The civilian environment is very different to the ADF, but transition doesn’t need to be a daunting experience. Help is available for current and ex-serving members as you move through the transition process and as you settle into the civilian community.

A vital step when preparing to leave the ADF is to mentally prepare yourself for the change that lies ahead and also to set realistic expectations of what your future life will look like.

Try talking to friends or family who have made the transition. Ask them what their experience was like and what they would have done differently. Remember, even if they had a negative experience, you can use this to ensure that your transition experience takes a more positive route.
Get in touch with a Transition Coach at the Defence Community Organisation office.
Start connecting with groups that support and assist transitioning members. The Partnerships Hub is a great place to start. We can connect you with groups that are relevant to your needs and situation.
Make sure that you register to attend a Transition Seminar. These expo-style events will not only provide you with relevant information about many aspects of transition (e.g. superannuation, family services, etc), but also give you the opportunity to meet with the support organisations that are available to you through transition and beyond.

It is also important to set realistic expectations about your career path following service. You may have a clear idea of what kind of career you want to pursue or you may have no idea where to start. Either way, there are organisations available to you that can help you to navigate the steps towards your end goal.

It’s a good idea to speak with specialists in the employment and recruiting space to get an understanding of the current job market. This will allow you to make informed decisions about your career pathway as you will gain an understanding of what it will take to get there. Also be aware of resources that are available to help you understand what roles and level of employment you are qualified for based on your service level.

The ADF has developed a series of resource documents (access here) that provide general guidance on core job tasks and demonstrated skills at rank across the ADF. These resources identify likely key priority skills sought by civilian employers applicable at each rank and gained through ADF training and experience.

>> More Info: Employment

It’s important to consider how your transition will affect those closest to you – your family. For many transitioning ADF members the transition process may involve a move either intrastate or interstate. Remember to consider what affect this may have on family members. Have open and frank conversations with your partner and family to help you understand any concerns that they have about the potential changes that lie ahead.

>> More Info: Family

If the idea of transition is daunting for either yourself or your family contact us through The Partnerships Hub for a confidential discussion.

Helpful Links:

ADF Transition & Civil Recognition Project – https://www.defence.gov.au/adc/ADFTCR/

DCO Transition – http://www.defence.gov.au/DCO/Transition/YourTransition/Default.asp

SA Veterans’ Employment Program – https://savep.com.au/

Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program – https://www.veteransemployment.gov.au/