Commonwealth Coat of Arms

Defence Determination 2005/15

made under section 58B of the Defence Act 1903

Compilation No.    4

Compilation date:   5 May 2016

Includes amendments up to: Defence Determination 2016/17

 

This compilation is in 5 volumes

Volume 1  Chapter 1 – Chapter 3

Volume 2  Chapter 4 – Chapter 6

Volume 3  Chapter 7 – Chapter 11

Volume 4  Chapter 12 – 17

Volume 5  Endnotes

About this compilation

This compilation

This is a compilation of Defence Determination 2005/15, that shows the text of the law as amended and in force on 05/05/16 (the compilation date).

The notes at the end of this compilation (the endnotes) include information about amending laws and the amendment history of provisions of the compiled law.

Uncommenced amendments

The effect of uncommenced amendments is not shown in the text of the compiled law. Any uncommenced amendments affecting the law are accessible on the Legislation Register (www.legislation.gov.au). The details of amendments made up to, but not commenced at, the compilation date are underlined in the endnotes. For more information on any uncommenced amendments, see the series page on the Legislation Register for the compiled law.

Application, saving and transitional provisions for provisions and amendments

If the operation of a provision or amendment of the compiled law is affected by an application, saving or transitional provision that is not included in this compilation, details are included in the endnotes.

Modifications

If the compiled law is modified by another law, the compiled law operates as modified but the modification does not amend the text of the law. Accordingly, this compilation does not show the text of the compiled law as modified. For more information on any modifications, see the series page on the Legislation Register for the compiled law.

Selfrepealing provisions

If a provision of the compiled law has been repealed in accordance with a provision of the law, details are included in the endnotes.

 

 

This Chapter includes these Parts.

 

Part 1

General information on Chapters 12 to 16

 

Part 2

Advice and administration for overseas conditions of service

 

Part 3

Definitions for Chapters 12 to 17

 

Part 4

Employment with the UN

 

 

Chapters 12 to 16 apply to all members who perform duty overseas. This includes members on Reserve service.

 

Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to these members.

 

a.

The CDF

 

b.

The Vice Chief of the Defence Force.

 

c.

Service Chiefs.

 

The overseas conditions of service in Chapters 12 to 16 are supplementary to other conditions of service that members are entitled to under other Chapters. They do not seek to reproduce the entire package of pay, leave and other conditions for members overseas.

Example: The overseas conditions do not deal with basic recreation leave. Instead, they provide additional leave for members at hardship posts overseas.

 

 

 

This Part is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of sources of advice and information about overseas conditions of service.

 

The definitions in this Part apply to Chapters 12 to 17.

1.

An accompanied member means a member who has a spouse or interdependent partner who meets all the following conditions.

 

a.

The spouse or interdependent partner meets the requirements under subclause 12.3.5.3 to be paid benefits under Chapters 12, 14, 15 and 16.

Examples:
1. A spouse who lives with the member at the posting location for 12 months.
2. An interdependent partner who lives at the posting location for more than six months, and the CDF has approved the period under subclause 12.3.5.4.

See: Clause 12.3.5, Dependant

 

b.

The spouse or interdependent partner lives with the member at the posting location.

 

c.

The spouse or interdependent partner is not away from the posting location for a continuous period of more than four weeks.

Exception: Paragraph c does not apply if accompanying the member on recreation leave that the member accrued at the posting location.

2.

A spouse or interdependent partner may accompany a member at private expense. In these cases, the member is regarded as unaccompanied.

1.

Allowable travel cost means the minimum cost of air travel between two locations. These conditions apply.

 

a.

Travel is by an airline with seats available.

 

b.

The airline offers a standard of safety and security comparable to air travel within Australia.

 

c.

Stopovers are avoided where possible.

 

d.

Concessions and discounts are used where possible. This includes discounts for advance purchase.

2.

The CDF may approve travel at a class higher than economy class. The entitlement is the cost of the higher standard of travel, considered reasonable in the circumstances.

Example: The CDF might authorise a higher class of travel for a young child travelling alone to certain locations, on the ground that economy class does not provide suitable security.

3.

For subclause 2, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The standards of safety, security, amenity and hygiene at both ground facilities and on board the aircraft.

 

b.

The time of year when the travel is undertaken.


 

c.

The duration of the travel.

 

d.

The extent to which the person may, in the course of travel, be subjected to discrimination within the meaning of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the person's travel.

4.

The allowable travel cost also includes these costs, if applicable.

 

a.

Compulsory insurance costs the member paid to secure a discounted fare.

 

b.

Rebooking or cancellation fees, because travel was not possible on the scheduled date, for Service reasons.

 

Related information: Department of Finance and Deregulation Finance Circular No. 2009/11, Best Fare of the Day for International Official Air Travel.

 

Data service provider means the company contracted by the Department of Defence to provide data about living costs and conditions at overseas posting locations.

1.

For overseas conditions of service, a dependant means any of these persons.

 

a.

A spouse or interdependent partner who normally lives with the member.

 

b.

A child of the member, or of the member’s spouse or interdependent partner. The child must meet all these conditions.

 

i.

The child must be less than 18 years old.

 

ii.

The child must be dependent on the member.

 

iii.

The child must normally live with the member.

 

ba.

A person recognised as a dependant with special needs under clause 1.3.82, regardless of age.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2 clause 1.3.82, Dependant with special needs

 2.

The CDF may approve another person as a member's dependant. The following conditions apply.

 

a.

The person must be a relative of the member or of the member's spouse or interdependent partner.

 

b.

The CDF must specify the period the person is the dependant of the member and for what conditions of service benefits.

 

c.

The CDF must consider all of the following criteria before giving approval.

 

i.

The extent of the person’s dependency on the member.

 

ii.

Whether the person’s normal place of residence is the member’s normal place of residence.

 

iii.

The length and timing of the member’s posting period.


 

iv.

The period during which the person intends to live with the member at the posting location.

 

v.

If the person intends to leave the posting location, their reason for that.

 

vi.

The expected effect on the person, if the member could make alternative arrangements for the person’s care and maintenance.

 

vii.

Any other special circumstance bearing on the member’s relationship to the person.

3.

Entitlements under Chapters 12, 14, 15 and 16 are provided for dependants. These conditions apply.

 

a.

The member must be on a long-term posting.

 

b.

The dependant must meet one of these conditions.

 

i.

The dependant lives, or intends to live, with the member at the posting location for at least 12 months.

 

ii.

The dependant is entitled to education assistance under Chapter 15 Part 6 Education Assistance.

4.

For subparagraph 3.b.i, the CDF may approve a period of longer than six months but less than 12 months. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The nature of the posting.

 

b.

The length of the posting period.

 

c.

The likely cost and benefit to the Commonwealth of providing entitlements for the dependant.

Example: Advice from the financial manager in the member's Group about the cost impact on the Group's budget of fares, removals, storage, health care.

 

d.

The family circumstances of the member.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the posting.

 

Deployment means warlike or non-warlike service overseas by members assigned for duty with a UN mission or a similar force.

 

Head of Post means the Australian Ambassador or High Commissioner responsible for the member’s posting location.

 

A location in Australia where a member normally lives is where the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. This is if the member does not normally live at a particular location in Australia.

Example: A member has had five postings in the last 10 years, in various locations around Australia. The CDF may decide that it is reasonable to regard the member as normally living in the location where the member was recruited, or where their next of kin live.

1.

A long-term posting overseas is one of these periods.

 

a.

A continuous period of duty in an overseas country, for longer than six months.

 

b.

A continuous period of duty in a series of overseas countries, for longer than six months in total. The CDF may approve these periods of duty as a long-term posting. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

i.

The accommodation and living arrangements likely to be adopted by the member during the period of duty.

 

ii.

The period the member is to spend in each country.

 

iii.

Any other factor relevant to the period of duty.

 

c.

A period of short-term duty that the CDF extends beyond six months. The long-term posting starts on the date of approval of the extension.

2.

This subclause applies to a member who has spent time at a location while assigned to a deployment, and then does further duty there after the end of their deployment. The further duty is a long-term posting if the total period is longer than six months. The long-term posting starts on the date of approval of the further duty.

 

Non-warlike service means both these kinds of service for the purposes of the Veterans’ Entitlements Act 1986.

 

a.

Service with a Peacekeeping Force for the purposes of Part IV.

 

b.

Hazardous service for the purposes of section 120.

 

Operational area means the operational area specified for the deployment in Annex 17.9.A.

 

The ordinary posting period is three years.

Exception: A shorter period may be specified for the posting location in column 2 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

 

An overseas post means any office or other establishment of the Commonwealth where a member is required by the Commonwealth to serve overseas, for any purpose. This includes a mission, appointment, station or place in a country overseas.

 

A parent includes a guardian or other person who is responsible for the day-to-day care of a child.

 

For overseas service, a posting location means the location overseas where the member is on a long-term posting.

 

A posting period overseas means the period between the days described in these two paragraphs.

 

a.

The posting period begins on the day the member starts duty at the posting location after any rest period.

Exception: A member may arrive at the posting location on a day observed locally as a weekend or public holiday. If they start duty on the next working day, the posting period begins the day the member arrives at the posting location.

 

b.

The posting period ends on the day the member leaves their settling-out accommodation at the posting location.

Exception: A member may depart from the posting location on a day observed locally as a weekend or public holiday. If the member finished duty on the preceding working day, the posting period ends on the day the member departs from the posting location.

 

Senior ADF representative means the most senior Defence Force member at a posting location. This member has administrative authority for members serving at that location.

 

Short-term duty overseas means a temporary absence to go to an overseas location, away from the normal place of duty. The absence is authorised by the Commonwealth for the purpose of performing duty overseas, either from Australia or from a posting location overseas. The period of absence is expected to be no longer than six months.

 

A time zone hour is a change of one time zone during air travel. It is measured using Coordinated Universal Time (old Greenwich Mean Time). Summer time and daylight saving time are disregarded for the purposes of this definition.

See:
Chapter 13 Part 2 Division 2 clauses 13.2.7, Definitions – time zone hour
Chapter 14 Part 4 Division 3 14.4.13, Definitions – time zone hour
Annex 12.3.A International time zones

 

 

An unaccompanied member means a member who is not an accompanied member. This can happen for one of these reasons.

 

a.

The member does not have dependants.

 

b.

The member informs the Overseas Administration Team in writing that they will be unaccompanied at the post.

 

c.

The member is required to be unaccompanied at the post for one of these reasons.

 

 

i.

Hardship.

 

 

ii.

Safety.

 

 

iii.

The long-term posting is too short to justify a removal.

 

d.

The member ceases to be an accompanied member while at the post.

 

The purpose of this Part is to outline the conditions of service for members on a contract of employment with the UN.

 

Note: The UN contract is a stand-alone package. It is designed to be sufficiently flexible to accommodate the full range of employment types in which the UN is engaged. It is intended to apply to all UN employees, without the need for supplementation. 

 

This Part applies to a member who is released from duty to perform an employment contract with the UN.

 

The CDF may approve a member to enter a contract with the UN. This is to perform services for a specified period at an overseas location. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

Australia’s obligations to the UN.

 

b.

The interests and operational capability of the ADF.

 

c.

The member’s interests and likely career progression.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the contract.

1.

A member and their dependants are not eligible for benefits under Chapters 1 to 17 for the following periods.

 

a.

The period of the contract.

 

b.

Any period immediately before or after the period of the contract, in relation to the following.

 

i.

Conditions of service for long-term posting overseas that would be payable in relation to the contract period.

 

ii.

Travel costs or any other costs incurred by the member or a dependant in connection with the contract.

2.

Despite subclause 1, the CDF may approve the following benefits, as if the member were on a long-term posting at the contract location.

 

a.

Storage of the possessions of the member and dependants within Australia at Commonwealth expense, while the member is on the contract.

 

b.

Reimbursement for insurance of the personal effects and possessions stored under paragraph a.


 

c.

Outlay advance.

 

d.

Assistance with health services provided overseas for a member and their dependants.

 

e.

Temporary accommodation allowance while in Australia.

3.

For subclause 2, the CDF must consider all the following factors.

 

a.

Whether there is a similar entitlement under the member's contract.

 

b.

The costs incurred by the member and dependants.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the member's circumstances during the approved period of the contract.

 

The approved period of the contract counts as service for salary advancement and accrual of service for long service leave.

See:
Chapter 3 Part 2, Administration of salaries
Chapter 5 Part 3, Long service leave

 

 

This Chapter contains information for members who undertake short-term duty overseas. It covers the range of travel entitlements and allowances available.

 

This Chapter includes the following Parts:

 

Part 1

Overview

 

Part 2

Overseas travel entitlements

 

Part 3

Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

 

Part 4

Special conditions and allowances

 

1.

This Chapter describes the entitlements and allowances that apply when members travel overseas on short-term duty.

2.

The Chapter covers standard entitlements, such as class of air travel and rest periods. It also covers payment of travel costs for short-term duty overseas. It sets out the various ways a member may become entitled to more or less than the standard limits on payment of travel costs.

 

This Chapter applies to a member who performs short-term duty overseas. This includes both the following.

 

a.

A member who performs short-term duty overseas while on a long-term posting.

See: Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 1, Travel for short-term duty while on long-term posting

 

b.

A member on Reserve service.

1.

This Chapter does not apply to any of these members.

 

a.

The CDF.

 

b.

The Vice Chief of the Defence Force.

 

c.

Service Chiefs.

 

See also: Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to

2.

Parts 1, 2 and 3 do not apply to a member on an officially approved activity overseas, as described in Part 4 Division 2.

 

Note: Members on short-term duty are entitled to some hardship post conditions if they meet the eligibility conditions.

See: Chapter 16, Overseas hardship locations.

 

A member on short-term duty overseas who is seriously or very seriously ill, may be eligible for support under the Australians dangerously ill scheme under Chapter 17 Part 3A.

See: Chapter 17 Part 3A, Australians dangerously ill scheme – overseas

 

 

When a member travels overseas on short-term duty, they are entitled to travel in particular classes. They may also be entitled to rest periods for the journey.

This Part covers these and other travel-related entitlements for members.

Term

Definition in this Chapter

Time zone hour

A change of one time zone during air travel, measured using Coordinated Universal Time (old Greenwich Mean Time).

Travel time

A period that:

  • begins with the latest allowed check-in time for the scheduled departure
  • ends with the actual arrival time at the destination airport
  • excludes all:

- rest periods

- leave
- stopovers where members are not on duty.

 

This Part includes these Divisions and Annex.

 

Division 1

Class of air travel

 

Division 2

Rest periods

 

Division 3

Accompanied travel

 

Division 4

Miscellaneous costs of short-term duty overseas

 

 

This Division does not apply to these members.

 

a.

Members who hold the rank of Colonel or lower, travelling to, on or from a deployment.

See: Chapter 17 Part 3 clause 17.3.2, Class of air travel – warlike and non-warlike deployments

 

b.

Members who travel in an aircraft owned or chartered by the Commonwealth. The travel arrangements are as provided on board the aircraft.

 

c.

Groups of members who hold the rank of Colonel or lower, travelling together by commercial air service on operations, exercises, training or to perform ceremonial duties. These groups are entitled to travel economy class.

Example: A class of members on an overseas study tour, or members of a ceremonial party or military band.

Exception 1: A member with the rank of Brigadier may choose to travel in business class.

Exception 2: The CDF may approve a higher class of travel for a class of members on an overseas study tour. The CDF must consider the costs and benefits of travel at the higher class, the members' rank, and the nature of the study tour.

 

See also:
Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to
Part 1 Clause 13.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to

 

A member has special travel requirements if both these conditions are met.

 

a.

A doctor certifies them as pregnant at the time of travel.

 

b.

Their actual travel time in an aircraft is longer than five hours.

1.

If a member is required to travel by air on short-term duty overseas, then they are entitled to travel in these classes.

 

a.

Business class, if available.

 

b.

First class, if business class is not available and they hold the rank of Brigadier or higher.

 

c.

Economy class, if business class is not available and they hold the rank of Colonel or lower.

 

d.

First class, if business class is not available on a USA domestic carrier for travel between Hawaii and the USA mainland.


2.

This clause applies to all these kinds of travel.

 

a.

Overseas from Australia.

 

b.

Domestically within a foreign country.

 

c.

Between foreign countries.

 

d.

Within Australia on flights that are directly associated with the member's overseas travel.

Example 1: A member is entitled to fly business class from Sydney to South Africa. The flight goes from Sydney to Perth to Johannesburg. An international aircraft operates the entire route. The member is entitled to fly business class the entire trip.

Example 2: A member posted in Melbourne is authorised to attend a conference in London. As part of the preparation, the member must attend a meeting in Perth immediately before travelling from Perth to London direct. The travel from Melbourne to Perth is treated as part of the overseas travel under this Division.

 

A member must not downgrade their class of air travel or depart from their approved itinerary for personal or financial gain.

1.

The CDF may upgrade a member to first class for special reasons. This can happen where a member is not entitled to first class air travel under subparagraph 13.2.3.1.b.

2.

When making this decision, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The standards of hygiene and amenities that the class of air travel would otherwise provide. This includes both at the airport in and the air.

 

b.

The member’s health.

 

c.

The time of year the travel is happening.

 

d.

The length of the journey.

 

e.

If any duties are being performed during travel.

 

f.

If part of a delegation, its size and structure, and any need to conduct business during travel.

 

g.

If the member is travelling with someone for duty, that person's status and class of air travel. This includes travel with senior government officials.

Examples:
Parliamentary delegations.
Ministers.
The CDF.
The Vice Chief of the Defence Force.
Service Chiefs.
Secretaries of Departments.

 

h.

If the member might be subjected to discrimination during travel, as defined by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986.

 

i.

Any other factor relevant to the travel.

 

Rest periods provide a chance to recover from jet lag, during or after air travel undertaken for duty.

 

A time zone hour is a change of one time zone during air travel. It is measured using Coordinated Universal Time (old Greenwich Mean Time). Summer time and daylight saving time are disregarded for the purposes of this definition.

See:
Chapter 12 Part 3 clause 12.3.19, Time zone hour
Chapter 14 Part 4 Division 3 clause 14.4.13, Time zone hour
Annex 12.3.A, International time zones

1.

A rest period is between 12 and 24 hours. The member is considered on duty for conditions of service purposes.

2.

This table describes the entitlement to rest periods.

 

Item

If travel by the direct route is…

then the member is entitled to…

1.

for at least four time zone hours, or with a travelling time of at least 12 hours

one rest period.

2.

for at least six time zone hours

two rest periods.

 

3.

The same entitlement applies to the journey, whether it is by a direct or indirect route.

4.

The member may choose whether to take a rest period during the journey or at the final destination, or both.

Example 1: A member travels from Sydney to Los Angeles direct. The journey is six time zone hours. The member is entitled to two rest periods and takes them on arrival in Los Angeles.

Example 2: A member is approved to travel from Sydney to New York via London (indirect). The time zone difference between Sydney and New York by the direct route is nine time zone hours, so the member is entitled to two rest periods. The member chooses to take one rest period in London and one on arrival in New York.

5.

If a rest period taken at the journey’s destination falls outside normal working hours, it will not entitle the member to time off duty instead.

6.

A member may have an unavoidable stopover on the journey. If the stopover is at least 12 hours, it will be regarded as a rest period. This will satisfy the rest period entitlement under this clause.

7.

No journey can have more than two rest periods.


8.

For an overnight rest period, the member is entitled to be paid both these costs.

 

a.

Accommodation costs as if the member were on duty.

 

b.

The meal and incidental components of travel costs.

See: Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

1.

This clause applies to a member who has been approved to take recreation leave during or after a journey.

2.

A member may take a rest period at the same location as recreation leave. The duration of the rest period is the same as if the member was to continue the journey without taking leave.

3.

Time spent on a rest period is not to be deducted from recreation leave credits.

1.

A member is not entitled to have their spouse or interdependent partner accompany them at Commonwealth expense on short-term duty overseas.

 

Exception: The CDF may approve travel for a spouse or interdependent partner to accompany the member at Commonwealth expense for representational purposes. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that it is demonstrably in the interests of the Commonwealth, given the purpose of the travel, for the member to be accompanied by their spouse or interdependent partner.

2.

If the CDF approves accompanied travel on short-term duty overseas, the member is entitled to all the following, as applicable.

 

a.

The reasonable additional cost of accommodation (including for rest periods).

 

b.

The spouse’s or interdependent partner's transportation cost by the same mode and class of travel as the member. This is the only transportation cost payable for the member's spouse or interdependent partner.

 

c.

Costs incurred for meals, up to the same daily limit as the member’s meal costs entitlement under Annex 13.3.A for short-term duty overseas.

 

1.

The Commonwealth may provide or arrange insurance against loss or damage to members' personal effects carried on overseas visits.

 

2.

If the Commonwealth does not do this, members are entitled to be reimbursed for one of the following, whichever is less.

 

a.

The premium paid to insure personal effects.

 

b.

The cost of a premium that would insure personal effects for AUD 3,000.

1.

If a member or dependant dies overseas, their legal personal representative is entitled to one of these amounts.

 

a.

The cost of returning the body to Australia, if the next of kin request it.

 

b.

Any excess costs for the funeral at the overseas location.

2.

For paragraph 1.b, these conditions apply.

 

a.

The amount paid is the difference between the additional costs of a funeral at the overseas location and a comparable Australian funeral.

Example: If a member would have paid AUD 5,000 for an Australian funeral and the overseas funeral cost AUD 8,000, the Commonwealth will reimburse AUD 3,000.

 

b.

The amount cannot be more than the cost payable under paragraph 1.a.

 

c.

The amount reimbursed must be reduced by any amount that the Commonwealth pays directly for the funeral.

Example: The Commonwealth pays for the funeral at the overseas location. There is no entitlement under this clause.

 

d.

The amount in paragraph 1.a covers the cost of returning the member's or dependant's remains to Australia. No additional amount is paid.

 

 

This Part sets out how a member who travels on short-term duty overseas may use an official charge card (the Defence travel card) to pay their reasonable travel costs.

 

Use of the travel card is based on the principle that a member will neither gain nor lose financially when they travel on Defence business.

 

This Part includes these Divisions and Annex.

 

Division 1

Rates, limitations and specific situations

 

Division 2

Equipment costs

 

Annex 13.3.A

Travel costs:

 

 

    Part 1: Brigadier or higher

 

 

    Part 2: Colonel or lower

 

Subject to this Part, a member on short-term duty overseas is entitled to use the travel card to pay the cost of meals, accommodation, incidentals and equipment.

 

A member on short-term duty overseas is not entitled to use the travel card while they are on:

 

a.

recreation leave, or

 

b.

long service leave.

1.

A member who lives out during short-term duty overseas may use the travel card to pay the travel costs set out in this table.

 

Item

If the member's rank is…

then they are entitled to use the travel card to pay for…

up to a daily
maximum amount of…

1.

Brigadier or higher

accommodation on each night in the period

the cost of accommodation of a reasonable standard for:

a. their classification, and

b. the nature of the duties performed.

meals for each day of the period

the rate in Part 1 of Annex 13.3.A for the location.

incidentals for each day of the period

the rate in Part 1 of Annex 13.3.A for the location.

2.

Colonel or lower

accommodation on each night in the period

the cost of accommodation of a reasonable standard for:

a. their classification, and

b. the nature of the duties performed.

meals for each day of the period

the rate in Part 2 of Annex 13.3.A for the location.

incidentals for each day of the period

the rate in Part 2 of Annex 13.3.A for the location.

 

 

Related Information:
1. See clause 13.3.9 for maximum costs for incomplete days at the start and end of the period of duty at a location overseas.
2. For a member travelling to Australia on short-term duty see Chapter 9 Part 5, Payment of travel costs.

2.

The member may not be able to use the card to pay for a meal directly. In this case, they are entitled to use the card to withdraw cash from an automatic teller machine (ATM) to pay for the meal. They must not withdraw more than their maximum entitlement.

3.

A member might get an allowance for accommodation, meals or incidentals from a
non-Commonwealth organisation for a period and location. The member has no entitlement under this Part for the costs for the same period and location.

See also: Clause 13.3.12, Top-up of costs paid by another organisation

4.

For this Part, a member attending the Royal College of Defence Studies in the UK is taken to hold the rank of Brigadier.

 

1.

A member may be entitled to an allowance to pay their travel costs if they meet both these conditions.

 

a.

They are on short-term duty overseas.

 

b.

They have not got a travel card to pay overseas travel costs.

 

The amount of the allowance is up to what they would normally pay for accommodation, meals and incidentals with the travel card.

Example: A member on long-term posting in an overseas location may not have access to a travel card when they go on short-term duty to another location.

2.

The member must keep receipts to show their accommodation costs.

3.

Receipts are not required for meal and incidental costs.

1.

A member is not entitled to use the travel card for accommodation or meals if any of these conditions are met.

 

a.

The Commonwealth, a carrier or anyone else provides meals at no cost to the member.

Example: The member is not entitled for breakfast if it was provided as part of an accommodation tariff.

 

b.

They are included in a fare paid for travel during the period of duty.

Example: An in-flight meal on an overseas flight is a meal provided in the fare payable for the travel.

 

c.

The member's travel continues overnight without a break for accommodation.

2.

A member is not entitled to an amount for accommodation provided on a non-commercial basis.

Example: The member stays privately at their aunt's home while on short-term duty overseas. They are not entitled to use cash withdrawn from the travel card to pay their aunt for the accommodation.

3.

A member may need to travel within Australia as part of their journey to get to an overseas location for short-term duty. In this case, they are not entitled to use the travel card at the rates under this Part to pay the domestic travel costs.

Example: A member must fly from Perth to Sydney to get to New York for short-term duty. They must use their entitlements under Chapter 9 Part 5 to pay costs for the Perth–Sydney flight. They must then use this Part for their journey from Sydney to New York. Their entitlement to business class travel is not affected by this Part.


4.

This subclause applies to a member who meets both these conditions.

 

a.

The member is living out at a location for five days or longer. The member’s days of arrival and departure do not count towards the five days.

See: Clause 13.3.9, Reduced rates for meals on day of arrival or departure.

 

b.

The member's accommodation provides cooking facilities and utensils. The facilities are of a standard that would allow the member to prepare their own meals.

 

The maximum meal amount for the member is limited. It is two-thirds of the amount to which the member would normally be entitled under the table in clause 13.3.6.

1.

The rate for meals on the day a member arrives or departs depends on what time they arrive or depart.

2.

The rate for meals based on arrival time is worked out by multiplying the standard daily rate for meals by the appropriate percentage from this table.

 

Item

If the member arrives at the location…

then the rate they are entitled to for the day is…

1.

before 0700

100%

2.

between 0700 and 1300

75%

3.

between 1301 and 1900

50%

4.

after 1900

Nil

 

3.

The rate for meals based on departure time is worked out by multiplying the standard daily rate for meals by the appropriate percentage from this table.

 

Item

If the member departs from the location...

then the rate they are entitled to for the day is…

1.

before 0700

Nil

2.

between 0700 and 1300

25%

3.

between 1301 and 1900

50%

4.

after 1900

100%

1.

The rate for incidental costs on the day a member arrives or departs depends on what time they arrive or depart. They are only entitled to half the daily rate in either of these situations.

 

a.

They arrive after noon.

 

b.

They depart before noon.


2.

A member is entitled to half the normal rate for incidental costs if they meet any of these conditions.

 

a.

They stay on duty at a location after being on short-term duty there for a continuous period of 28 days. They get half the listed rate for the period beyond the 28 days.

 

b.

They are on a long-term posting overseas, and they go on short-term duty within the country of posting. The lower entitlement applies to the short-term duty only.

Example: A member is on posting in Washington DC. They travel on business to Seattle. They get half the listed rate for incidental costs for the trip.

See: Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 1, Travel for short-term duty while on long-term posting

 

c.

They are in an overseas country on leave and the CDF recalls them to undertake short-term duty in that country. They get half the listed rate for the short-term duty only.

 

d.

They are accommodated on board a seagoing ship while it is visiting an overseas port. They get half the listed rate during the visit.

3.

A break of less than seven days from their short-term duty location may not break a member's continuity for the purposes of paragraph 2.a above. The break does not count if the member was advised that the period of absence was to be for less than seven days.

Example: A member has been on short-term duty in Washington DC for 21 days. They travel on duty to Chicago for two-day conference, which they attend as planned. When they return, they still have five days on the full incidental rate before the rate drops to half.

Non-example: A member has been on short-term duty in New Delhi for 15 days. They are advised to undertake short-term duty in Colombo for three days. For reasons beyond their control, the duty in Colombo takes eight days. This breaks continuity for paragraph 2.a. When they return to New Delhi, they have a further 28 days on the full incidental rate before the rate drops to half.

1.

A member's maximum entitlement may be less than they actually spend on accommodation, meals or incidentals on their short-term duty. In this case, the CDF may approve their use of an additional amount on the travel card.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The length of the member’s short-term duty period.

 

b.

The nature of the duties the member undertakes.

 

c.

The nature and cost of meals, accommodation and relevant services at the location of the duty.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the costs.

 

Example 1: A member is required to accompany the Minister, Secretary, CDF, VCDF or a Service Chief. They may be allowed to use the travel card to buy accommodation at the same hotel as the person they are working with.

Example 2: A member is required to lead a delegation overseas. They may be allowed to use the travel card to pay for a hotel suite for extra office space.

 

1.

A non-Commonwealth organisation might pay some of a member's travel costs, but less than the member would be entitled to under this Part. The member may apply for additional travel costs under clause 13.3.11.

See also: Subclause 13.3.6.3, Travel costs while living out

2.

This clause does not apply if the member is on exchange duty overseas.

 

A member of any rank who is in hospital for a period during short-term duty overseas has these entitlements.

 

a.

They may use the travel card to pay for these costs.

 

i.

Incidentals up to the maximum for a Colonel or lower in the table in clause 13.3.6.

 

ii.

Continuing costs they cannot avoid for accommodation and other charges outside the hospital. The Commonwealth will not pay more than the limit of their entitlement under this Part.

Example: Ongoing hotel costs for retaining accommodation or storing baggage.

 

b.

If they could not use the travel card to pay for costs in subparagraph a.ii, they may be reimbursed by other means.

1.

A member must confirm their costs on the travel card using the Department of Defence’s card management system. They must do this within 28 days after they end their short-term duty overseas.

Example: The member might present receipts for the payments.

2.

If the member has spent more on the travel card than they were entitled to (including any extra amount approved by CDF), they must repay the difference to the Commonwealth.

3.

If the member has not used their maximum entitlement for meals and incidentals when they confirm their costs, they are not entitled to the unused costs.

1.

A member who meets all of the following conditions is entitled to part-day travelling allowance.

 

a.

The member is required to perform duty away from the location where the member normally performs duty.

 

b.

The member holds the rank of Colonel or lower.

 

c.

The member is absent from their normal duty location for more than 10 hours.

 

d.

The member is not absent from their normal duty location overnight.


 

Example: A Lieutenant Colonel leaves home at 0600 to travel to a meeting in another city. The member returns home at 2100. The member is away from home for 15 hours. The member is entitled to part-day travelling allowance.

2.

Part-day travelling allowance is an amount calculated at 60% of the meal amount listed for the location in Part 2 of Annex 13.3.A.

See: Annex 13.3.A, Travel costs

3.

A member must not use the Defence travel card to claim part-day travelling allowance.

Note: Part-day travelling allowance is paid through the pay system and is taxable. The member would still use their Defence travel card to purchase fares for their journey.

1.

A member who lives in during short-term duty overseas is entitled to travelling allowance for each day in the period of duty. This table sets out how this allowance is worked out for members of any rank.

 

Item

The member is entitled to an amount for…

up to a daily
maximum of…

1.

compulsory mess charges and accommodation

the amount of the charges.

2.

meals

an amount that the CDF considers reasonable, but not more than the applicable limit in Annex 13.3.A for the location.

3.

incidentals

the applicable amount in Annex 13.3.A for the location.

 

2.

For item 2 of the table, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The location where the member is accommodated.

 

b.

The cost of meals at the location.

 

c.

The nature of the member's accommodation and living arrangements.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the member's meals.

 

 

The payment of basic equipment costs helps a member in two ways when they travel from Australia to short-term duty overseas.

 

a.

It helps them pay for travel equipment and other necessary items.

Examples: A suitcase, a foreign electricity adaptor, a world clock.

 

b.

It has an element to pay them for the extra wear and tear on their possessions.

1.

A member is entitled to use the travel card to buy equipment up to a maximum of:

 

a.

AUD 115 for travel to New Zealand.

 

b.

AUD 225 for any other travel.

2.

A member can use the travel card to buy equipment to the total of AUD 225 in any three-year period.

 

Example: A member travels to New Zealand and spends AUD 115 to buy a suitcase. Two years later, the member travels to the United States. The member may only use the travel card to buy equipment up to AUD 110.

3.

A member is not entitled to use the travel card to pay for equipment for use in these situations.

 

a.

Participating in an approved ADF activity such as overseas adventure training, sports events or work experience.

 

b.

Serving in a seagoing ship or submarine and required to live ashore while the vessel is in an overseas port.

 

c.

Travelling on short-term duty to Australia from an overseas location where they are on a long-term posting.

 

d.

For use at a long-term posting.

4.

If a member uses the travel card to buy equipment and then does not go overseas, they must repay the total amount to the Commonwealth.

5.

The CDF may waive the repayment, if satisfied that they are unable to recover the cost of any items they bought.

1.

A member may use the travel card to buy special clothing for overseas climates that are different from the usual climate at their normal place of duty.

2.

The CDF may authorise the member to use the travel card to buy additional equipment. Approval can only be given if the CDF is satisfied that the maximum entitlement under clause 13.3.18 is not enough to meet the member's needs.


3.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The climate at the member’s destination compared to the climate at their normal place of duty.

 

b.

The length of the proposed travel.

 

c.

The means of travel.

 

d.

The climate likely to be met at locations during the travel.

 

e.

The duties the member will perform during the travel.

 

f.

How much clothing the Commonwealth supplies the member for the travel.

 

g.

How much more wear and tear the member’s clothing will face due to the travel, compared to ordinary wear and tear.

 

h.

Any Commonwealth money the member was entitled to for buying clothes for previous duty travel within Australia or overseas.

4.

An authorised member may use the travel card to spend up to AUD 205 on additional equipment. The member may spend up to this amount once in any three-year period for use in each of these three regions as they are identified in the CDF approval.

 

a.

A tropical region.

 

b.

A cold region.

 

c.

Another climatic region.

5.

The member may be entitled to spend a further AUD 205 for additional equipment in any three-year period. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that they meet all these conditions.

 

a.

They are to travel on short-term duty to a location.

 

b.

They are likely to be exposed to an extremely cold winter climate at that location.

 

c.

The additional equipment they are entitled to buy under clause 13.3.18 and subclause 4 above will not meet their clothing needs for travel to the location.

6.

This table gives examples of how this clause is applied.

 

Item

Climate

Examples: additional equipment allowance applies

Non-examples: additional equipment allowance does not apply

1.

Tropical

Destination: Singapore

Normal place of duty: Melbourne Reason: The two places have different climates (tropical and temperate).

Destination: Papua New Guinea

Normal place of duty: Cairns

Reason: Both are tropical climates.

2.

Cold

Destination: UK in January

Normal place of duty: Brisbane in January

Reason: The two places have different climates at that time of year.

Destination: UK in April

Normal place of duty: Melbourne in April

Reason: The two places have similar climates at that time of year.

3.

Extreme cold
(subclause 5)

Destination: Moscow or northern Canada in winter

Normal place of duty: Sydney

Reason: Moscow and northern Canada have extremely cold winter climates.

Destination: Moscow in summer

Normal place of duty: Sydney

Reason: The two places have similar climates at that time of year.


7.

Additional equipment allowance may be paid to members on long-term overseas postings who must travel to other overseas locations for short-term duty.

 

A member who is entitled under this Division may get an allowance for their equipment costs. This is only if they meet these two conditions.

 

a.

They are travelling on short-term duty overseas.

 

b.

They have not got a travel card.

 

The limit of the allowance is the amount they would be entitled to if they used the travel card under this Division.

 

 

This Annex sets out maximum travel costs payable using the travel card on short-term duty overseas. 

Item

Place

Currency

Limit for each day: meals

Limit for each day: incidentals

1.

Argentina

ARS

690

197

2.

Australia

See: Chapter 9 Part 5, Payment of travel costs

-

-

-

3.

Austria

EUR

144

35

4.

Bahrain

BHD

71

17

5.

Bangladesh

BDT

12099

3203

6.

Barbados

BBD

522

110

7.

Belgium

EUR

201

42

8.

Brazil

USD

261

55

9.

Brunei

BND

163

46

10.

Cambodia

USD

128

37

11.

Canada

CAD

275

58

12.

Chile

USD

156

41

13.

China – Hong Kong

HKD

2023

426

14.

China – Macau

MOP

2084

439

15.

China – elsewhere

CNY

1601

337

16.

Cook Islands

NZD

243

59

17.

Croatia

HRK

892

236

18.

Cyprus

EUR

144

35

19.

Czech Republic

CZK

3109

823

20.

Denmark

DKK

1628

315

21.

Egypt

EGP

1092

289

22.

Ethiopia

ETB

1629

514

23.

Fiji

FJD

242

69

24.

Finland

EUR

201

42

25.

France

EUR

201

42

26.

Germany

EUR

144

35

27.

Greece

EUR

144

35

28.

Hungary

HUF

35259

9333

29.

Iceland

ISK

32333

6807

30.

India

INR

9247

2448

31.

Indonesia

IDR

1544384

408807

32.

Iran

IRR

1910607

505749

33.

Irish Republic

EUR

144

35

34.

Israel

USD

261

55

35.

Italy

EUR

201

42

36.

Japan

JPY

25913

5455

37.

Jordan

JOD

185

39

38.

Kazakhstan

USD

156

41

 


Item

Place

Currency

Limit for each day: meals

Limit for each day: incidentals

39.

Kenya

KES

13363

3537

40.

Korea Republic

KRW

297926

62721

40A.

Korea Republic – US Bases

USD

188

46

41.

Kuwait

KWD

54

13

42.

Laos

USD

128

37

43.

Lebanon

USD

188

46

44.

Luxembourg

EUR

201

42

45.

Malaysia

MYR

492

130

46.

Malta

EUR

120

32

47.

Mauritius

MUR

4839

1281

48.

Mexico

USD

156

41

49.

Monaco

EUR

201

42

50.

Myanmar

USD

156

41

51.

Nauru

AUD

95

30

52.

Nepal

NPR

12184

3481

53.

Netherlands

EUR

201

42

54.

New Caledonia

XPF

23680

4985

55.

New Zealand

NZD

243

59

56.

Nigeria

NGN

42399

8926

57.

Norway

NOK

1733

355

58.

Oman

OMR

100

21

59.

Pakistan

PKR

8652

2732

60.

Papua New Guinea

PGK

588

124

61.

Philippines

PHP

6722

1779

62.

Poland

USD

156

41

63.

Portugal

EUR

120

32

64.

Qatar

USD

261

55

65.

Russia

USD

284

55

65A.

Rwanda

RWF

98,419

26,052

66.

Samoa

WST

445

108

67.

Saudi Arabia

SAR

584

154

68.

Senegal

EUR

144

35

69.

Singapore

SGD

331

70

70.

Solomon Islands

SBD

1116

296

71.

South Africa

ZAR

1272

363

72.

Spain

EUR

144

35

73.

Sri Lanka

LKR

16710

4774

74.

Sudan

USD

128

37

75.

Sweden

SEK

1761

371

76.

Switzerland

CHF

268

52

77.

Syria

SYP

15598

4129

78.

Thailand

THB

4826

1278

79.

Timor-Leste

USD

128

37

80.

Tonga

TOP

284

75

81.

Turkey

USD

188

46

82.

Uganda

USD

128

37

83.

Ukraine

USD

156

41

84.

United Arab Emirates

AED

958

202

85.

United Kingdom

GBP

172

36


Item

Place

Currency

Limit for each day: meals

Limit for each day: incidentals

86.

USA

USD

188

46

87.

Vanuatu

VUV

18547

4524

88.

Venezuela

USD

261

55

89.

Vietnam

USD

128

37

90.

Other countries

AUD

95

30

Item

Place

Currency

Limit for each day: meals

Limit for each day: incidentals

1.

Argentina

ARS

542

172

2.

Australia

See: Chapter 9 Part 5, Payment of travel costs

-

-

-

3.

Austria

EUR

120

32

4.

Bahrain

BHD

59

16

5.

Bangladesh

BDT

9608

2847

6.

Barbados

BBD

421

92

7.

Belgium

EUR

162

35

8.

Brazil

USD

211

46

9.

Brunei

BND

128

41

10.

Cambodia

USD

101

32

11.

Canada

CAD

222

48

12.

Chile

USD

124

37

13.

China – Hong Kong

HKD

1633

355

14.

China – Macau

MOP

1682

366

15.

China – elsewhere

CNY

1292

281

16.

Cook Islands

NZD

201

53

17.

Croatia

HRK

708

210

18.

Cyprus

EUR

120

32

19.

Czech Republic

CZK

2469

732

20.

Denmark

DKK

1418

263

21.

Egypt

EGP

867

257

22.

Ethiopia

ETB

1286

429

23.

Fiji

FJD

190

61

24.

Finland

EUR

162

35

25.

France

EUR

162

35

26.

Germany

EUR

120

32

27.

Greece

EUR

120

32

28.

Hungary

HUF

28000

8296

29.

Iceland

ISK

26094

5673

30.

India

INR

7343

2176

31.

Indonesia

IDR

1226422

363384

32.

Iran

IRR

1517247

449555

33.

Irish Republic

EUR

120

32

34.

Israel

USD

211

46

35.

Italy

EUR

162

35

36.

Japan

JPY

20913

4546

37.

Jordan

JOD

149

32

38.

Kazakhstan

USD

124

37

39.

Kenya

KES

10612

3144

40.

Korea Republic

KRW

240431

52268

40A.

Korea Republic – US Bases

USD

156

41

41.

Kuwait

KWD

44

12

42.

Laos

USD

101

32

 


Item

Place

Currency

Limit for each day: meals

Limit for each day: incidentals

43.

Lebanon

USD

156

41

44.

Luxembourg

EUR

162

35

45.

Malaysia

MYR

390

116

46.

Malta

EUR

95

28

47.

Mauritius

MUR

3843

1139

48.

Mexico

USD

124

37

49.

Monaco

EUR

162

35

50.

Myanmar

USD

124

37

51.

Nauru

AUD

75

25

52.

Nepal

NPR

9573

3046

53.

Netherlands

EUR

162

35

54.

New Caledonia

XPF

19110

4154

55.

New Zealand

NZD

201

53

56.

Nigeria

NGN

34217

7438

57.

Norway

NOK

1509

279

58.

Oman

OMR

81

18

59.

Pakistan

PKR

6831

2277

60.

Papua New Guinea

PGK

474

103

61.

Philippines

PHP

5338

1582

62.

Poland

USD

124

37

63.

Portugal

EUR

95

28

64.

Qatar

USD

211

46

65.

Russia

USD

247

46

65A.

Rwanda

RWF

78,156

23,157

66.

Samoa

WST

369

98

67.

Saudi Arabia

SAR

463

137

68.

Senegal

EUR

120

32

69.

Singapore

SGD

267

58

70.

Solomon Islands

SBD

887

263

71.

South Africa

ZAR

1000

318

72.

Spain

EUR

120

32

73.

Sri Lanka

LKR

13129

4178

74.

Sudan

USD

101

32

75.

Sweden

SEK

1421

309

76.

Switzerland

CHF

234

43

77.

Syria

SYP

12387

3670

78.

Thailand

THB

3833

1136

79.

Timor-Leste

USD

101

32

80.

Tonga

TOP

225

67

81.

Turkey

USD

156

41

82.

Uganda

USD

101

32

83.

Ukraine

USD

124

37

84.

United Arab Emirates

AED

773

168

85.

United Kingdom

GBP

139

30

86.

USA

USD

156

41

87.

Vanuatu

VUV

15380

4071

88.

Venezuela

USD

211

46

89.

Vietnam

USD

101

32

90.

Other countries

AUD

75

25


 

This Part outlines travel costs that apply to members for specific conditions overseas.

 

This Part includes the following Divisions:

 

Division 1

Member on Defence co-operation program or project

 

Division 2

Officially approved activities

 

1.

This Division applies to a member serving for a period overseas on one of these projects.

 

a.

A Defence co-operation program or project.

 

b.

A similar program or project approved by the CDF.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The duties performed by the member.

 

b.

The circumstances in which the program or project is conducted.

 

c.

The duration of the program or project.

 

d.

Any other relevant factor.

 

A member is not entitled under this Division if they are entitled to maritime disability allowance.

1.

This clause applies to the member during part or all of their stay at a location overseas. Both these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The member does not stay in a hotel or other commercial lodging, or living-in accommodation.

 

b.

The member is not provided with food.

2.

The member is entitled to these benefits for the period.

 

a.

An allowance for the costs that the CDF considers reasonable for food and drinks, excluding alcohol.

 

b.

Half the normal rate for incidentals under Part 3 Travel costs for short-term duty overseas.

3.

For paragraph 2.a, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The cost the member incurred for food and drinks.

 

b.

The member’s welfare and dietary needs.

 

c.

The cost and availability of supplies at the place where the member is on duty, and alternative sources of supply.

 

d.

The cost of transporting goods to the member.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the member's situation.

 

1.

The CDF may decide that the food provided to a member does not satisfy ordinary dietary needs. If so, the member is entitled to be reimbursed food costs incurred in meeting those needs.

2.

When making a decision, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The quantity and quality of the food provided.

 

b.

The ordinary dietary requirements of someone serving in the member's circumstances.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the food provided.

 

 

This Division applies to a member participating in officially approved activities overseas.

Examples: Adventure training, sports, work experience.

1.

The CDF can decide an amount to help with travel costs associated with participation in officially approved activities. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The activity's nature, duration and location.

 

b.

The approved itinerary and transport arrangements.

 

c

The nature and extent of travel costs incurred by the member.

 

d.

The benefit to the ADF of the member’s participation.

 

e.

The nature and level of interest in the activity among ADF members.

 

f.

The value of any other subsidy of the member’s participation.

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to the activity.

2.

The amount must not be more than the lesser of these costs.

 

a.

The total travel costs the member would be entitled to if the travel were for shortterm duty.

 

b.

The costs the member incurs for participating in the activity.

3.

The member is not entitled to either of these amounts.

 

a.

Other travel costs.

 

b.

The cost of transportation.

 

 

This Chapter contains legislation for a member and their dependants relocating to or from a long-term posting overseas.

It covers entitlements from when an official written notice of a posting is issued, until the member starts the period of posting. It also covers the return journey to Australia or the next posting.

 

This Chapter includes these Parts.

 

Part 1

Overview

 

Part 2

Before leaving Australia

 

Part 3

Removals

 

Part 4

Travel to and from the posting location

 

Part 5

Settling in and out

 

Part 6

Evacuations and withdrawals from posting

 

1.

When a member receives official written notice of an overseas posting, the Commonwealth provides a number of entitlements. These entitlements help the member and dependants to travel to the overseas posting, so the member is ready for duty on the required date. The entitlements also provide travel back to Australia, or the next posting location, when the posting period ends.

2.

This table provides an overview of the entitlements covered by this Chapter.

 

Item

Entitlement

For details, see:

1.

Fitness checks for dependants.

Part 2, Before leaving Australia

2.

Financial advances.

3.

Financial advice.

4.

Removal, storage or sale of items.

Part 3, Removals

5.

Sale or storage of private vehicle.

6.

Transfer allowance.

7.

Compensation for any loss or damage.

8.

Travel cost allowance.

Part 4, Travel to and from the posting location

9.

Air travel to the posting location, to begin duty.

10.

Air travel from the posting, at end of the posting period.

11.

Excess baggage costs.

12.

Rest periods.

13.

Settling in and out allowances.

Part 5, Settling in and out

14.

Entitlements during evacuations

Part 6, Evacuations and withdrawals from posting

15.

Entitlements if the Commonwealth suddenly withdraws from posting.

16.

Compensation for loss or damage to possessions in certain events.

Examples: War, civil disorder, natural disaster.

 

3.

Once the member has moved in to permanent accommodation at the posting, entitlements are covered by Chapter 15, until the end of the posting period.

See: Chapter 15, Living and working on long-term posting overseas

4.

When relocating back to Australia, or the next posting location, similar removal, travel and settling out entitlements apply. Check each Part in this Chapter for details.

 

1.

This Chapter applies to a member (including a member on Reserve service) who is on a long-term posting overseas.

2.

Despite subclause 1, a member who meets both the following conditions may be granted the conditions listed in subclause 4.

 

a.

The member has been granted a period of part-time leave without pay.

 

b.

The member is performing duty overseas.

 

Note: This means that for a member who meets the requirements of subclause 2, any prerequisites of posting overseas are taken not to apply.

3.

The following parts of this Chapter apply to a member who meets the conditions in subclause 2.

Related Information: See Clause 5.8.26, Other conditions of service that apply, for the conditions applying to members performing part-time leave without pay overseas

 

Item

Condition

Reference

1.

Travel on evacuation

 

Exception: The member is only entitled to travel on evacuation. The member is not entitled to travel at the beginning and end of the member's period of duty overseas.

Clause 14.4.4

 

Exception: Subclause 14.4.4.3.

 

2.

Conditions on evacuation from post

a. Clauses 14.6.3 to 14.6.7

b. Clause 14.6.12

c. Clauses 14.6.15 and 14.6.16

 

This Chapter does not apply to a member if either of these conditions applies.

 

a.

They are not entitled to salary.

 

b.

They are on a scholarship, bursary or endowment for studying overseas from an organisation other than the Commonwealth.

Example: Rhodes Scholarship.

 

 

This Part provides information on entitlements and advancements available to members, before leaving Australia for an overseas post.

Note: For additional requirements before departure, contact Integrated Travel Solutions. They can assist with information relating to passports and visas.

See: Chapter 12 Part 2 Clause 12.2.3 for contact details for Integrated Travel Solutions.

 

This Part includes these Divisions.

 

Division 1

Pre-departure certificate of fitness

 

Division 2

Financial advances and advice

 

Division 3

Expenses if overseas posting is cancelled

 

1.

This Division does not apply to members. It applies to their dependants approved by the Commonwealth to live at the member's posting location.

 

See: Chapter 15 Part 5 Division 1 Eligible persons

2.

Health entitlements for eligible persons at the posting location are outlined in Chapter 15 Part 5, Excess health costs.

1.

Before a person departs Australia for the posting location, they must obtain certificates of both medical and dental fitness. Certificates must state that the person is fit to travel to and live at the posting location.

Note: This clause also applies to dependants embarking on reunion visits to the posting location.

2.

Certificates must be provided by doctors and dentists authorised by Defence. They must be informed that the examinations are required for travelling to and living at the posting location. They must provide a results report to the Joint Health Services Agency (JHSA) for approval.

3.

The JHSA will then advise the Overseas Administration Team of approval or further action required. Files are kept by the JHSA as Medical-in-Confidence information.

4.

The examinations must allow sufficient time for any necessary medical or dental treatment to be undertaken before departure from Australia.

5.

If the examinations reveal a medical, dental, physical, mental or intellectual condition, the JHSA must consider if the posting location has suitable facilities for ongoing treatment of that condition.

5A.

If a person has been recognised as a dependant with special needs under clause 1.3.82, the decision-maker in the JHSA must consider if the posting location has suitable facilities for ongoing treatment and care of the condition.

Example: The dependant with special needs has a medical condition that requires monthly hospital treatments. JHSA will consider if a hospital in the posting location has the facilities to be able to perform the monthly treatment.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2 clause 1.3.82, Dependants with special needs

5B.

If a person has been recognised through a medical examination as having a special need, and they have not been recognised under clause 1.3.82, the member may apply for recognition under clause 1.3.82.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2 clause 1.3.82, Dependants with special needs


6.

If a person is not certified as fit, the CDF may approve that the person is eligible for health care costs outlined in this Part. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The state of health of the person.

 

b.

The nature, availability and cost of health, therapeutic or special needs facilities at the posting location.

 

c.

The interests of the Commonwealth that would be furthered by the person living at the posting location.

 

d.

Any climatic or other environmental factor at the posting location that may be especially adverse to the health or the person.

Example: A recognised dependant with special needs requires a constant temperature between 20 and 25 degrees celsius. The proposed posting location has an average temperature of 35 degrees celsius for most of the year. This location may not be seen as suitable for the dependant's well being.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the person's fitness to live at the posting location.

Example: Any recognised special needs that the person has.

7.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed for any costs to obtain the certificate of fitness.  

8.

Eligible persons are also entitled to be provided with all necessary inoculations, vaccinations and anti-malarial drugs, at Commonwealth cost.

Note: This includes dependants embarking on reunion visits.

 

This Division applies to a member who has received an official written notice of posting. 

 

Outlay advance is a loan to help with the member’s establishment costs at a new posting location.

1.

A member may apply for an outlay advance for use at the start of a long-term posting. 

2.

The member may select an advance amount up to a maximum of AUD 15,000.

3.

The member must request the amount required on the form: Payment of Outlay Advance Deed (Form No. FD071).

4.

When a member and their spouse or interdependent partner (who is also a member) are posted to the same location overseas, only the member on full overseas living allowance is entitled to an outlay advance.

See: Chapter 15 Part 2, Overseas Living Allowance

5.

A member may claim an outlay advance for each long-term posting. The maximum amount that a member can have outstanding at any time is AUD 15,000.

 

The member must provide a statement that meets all of the following requirements.

 

a.

The statement must be provided within the six months after the member receives the outlay advance.

 

b.

The statement must be in writing.

 

c.

The statement must list all costs paid from the outlay advance.

 

d.

The statement must be provided to the Overseas Administration Team.

 

Note: If these requirements are not met there are fringe benefits tax implications for the member.

1.

There are two types of outlay advance recovery.

 

a.

Recovery of unspent monies.

See: Subclause 2.

 

b.

Recovery of the advance.

See: Subclause 3.


2.

The following arrangements apply where the amount shown on a member's outlay advance statement is less than the amount of the advance.

 

a.

The member must repay the whole of the difference.

 

b.

Repayments under paragraph a must be made by the date six months after the member received the outlay advance.

3.

The following arrangements apply to recovery of the advance. 

 

a.

The member must pay back the outlay advance by the day one year after the payment was made.

 

b.

Payments must start on the payday after the member receives the outlay advance.

 

c.

The member must repay the advance by fortnightly instalments.

 

d.

The following table shows how to calculate fortnightly repayments.

Exception: After a member has made a repayment under subclause 2, repayments are calculated under paragraph e.

 

Step

Action

1.

Divide the amount of the outlay advance by 26.

2.

The member must repay the outcome of Step 1 each payday.

 

 

e.

The following table shows how to calculate fortnightly repayments, if a member has made a repayment under subclause 2.

Note: This represents the principle that the outstanding advance is recovered over the rest of the 26 weeks.

 

Step

Action

1.

Multiply the amount of the repayment under Step 2 of the table in paragraph d by the number of payments already made.

2.

Perform the following calculation:

 

Amount of outlay advance minus outcome of Step 1 minus amount of the repayment under subclause 2

 

3.

Subtract the number of payments already made under paragraph d from 26.

4.

Divide the outcome of Step 2 by the outcome of Step 3.

5.

The member must repay the outcome of Step 4.

 


 

 

Example: A member applies for a AUD 15,000 outlay advance. The member spends AUD 12,000. After paying 13 repayments calculated under paragraph d, the member repays AUD 3,000. The member's new repayments are calculated as follows.

 

Step

Action

1.

The member's former repayments were AUD 576.92 a fortnight. (AUD 15,000 divided by 26).

 

AUD 576.92 x 13 = AUD 7,499.96

 

2.

AUD 15,000 - 7,499.96 - 3,000 = AUD 4,500.04

3.

26 – 13 = 13

4.

AUD 4,500.04 divided by 13 = AUD 346.16

5.

The member must repay AUD 346.16 each fortnight.

 

4.

If a member has been paid an outlay advance, and the member’s posting is cancelled or ends, the member must repay any outstanding amount of the outlay advance.

5.

The amount assessed under subclause 4 is a debt to the Commonwealth.

Authority: Accountable Authority Instructions Chapter 9, Managing debt

1.

If a member consults an accredited financial adviser before departing Australia, the member is entitled to be reimbursed up to AUD 300 for the consultation.

2.

The consultation must occur between the day the official written notice of posting is issued, and the day the member departs from Australia.

 

1.

If a long-term posting is cancelled before the member begins the posting, they may not be able to be refunded by the supplier for goods and services they bought for the posting. They are entitled to an amount for what they would have been reimbursed for the goods and services, if the posting had not been cancelled. All these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The member received written notification of posting.

 

b.

The cancellation did not result from the member’s personal circumstances.

 

c.

The member paid for goods or services as a direct result of the notification.

 

d.

The member cannot make use of the goods or services.

 

e.

The member is not able to be refunded by the supplier of the goods or services.

2.

If no existing condition of service in subclause 3 covers unavoidable costs incurred in subclause 1, the member may be paid an amount the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The nature of the costs.

 

b.

The circumstances under which the costs were paid.

 

c.

The residual benefit of the goods and services bought.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the costs.

3.

For subclause 2, these are the conditions of service.

 

a.

Transfer allowance.

 

b.

Housing assistance.

 

c.

Reimbursement of education costs for a child.

 

d.

Reimbursement for loss on sale of a vehicle.

 

This Part outlines the removal entitlements for a member, going to or from a long-term overseas posting.

 

This Part applies to a member who has received an official written notice of posting. It also applies to their eligible dependants.

 

In certain situations, a member and their spouse may be eligible for two removal entitlements under this Part. Only a member on full overseas living allowance is entitled to a removal.

 

This Part includes these Divisions.

 

Division 1

Removal, storage or sale of items

 

Division 2

Sale or storage of private vehicles

 

Division 3

Transfer allowance

 

Division 4

Loss or damage

 

Division 5

Dependant removals in special cases

 

Division 6

Removals if dependant status changes

 

1.

At the beginning of a posting, a member is entitled to a removal of items to the posting location at Commonwealth cost.

2.

When the member has made an inventory of items to be removed, the CDF will approve what items may be removed, and how they are to be removed. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

Criteria about the posting

 

a.

The location from which the member departs.

 

b.

The location to which the member is posted and the circumstances at the posting location.

 

c.

The intended duration of the posting.

 

d.

Any prospective postings and the member's expected career path.

 

Criteria about the dependants

 

e.

The number, age and health of any dependants of the member.

 

f.

Any other factor relevant to the residential arrangements of the member and dependants at the posting location.

 

Criteria about the removal

 

g.

The quantity and nature of the goods to be removed.

 

h.

The most efficient and effective means of transport available to remove the goods.

 

i.

The cost of removal by available means of transport.

 

j.

The need for the goods to arrive as close as possible to the date of the member’s arrival at the posting location.

 

k.

Any other factor relevant to the removal.

1.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed up to AUD 652 for pet transportation, both to and from the overseas posting location.

Example: Two pets are removed to the posting location and the member is reimbursed AUD 652. At the end of the posting, three pets are returned to Australia and the member is again reimbursed AUD 652. The total reimbursement is a maximum of AUD 1,304 for all pets.

2.

The entitlement includes reimbursement for these costs.

 

a.

Commercial transportation and associated boarding.

 

b.

Any veterinary fees for the sedation of a pet during transport.

 

c.

Any fees and charges in relation to quarantine, if imposed by the Commonwealth or not.


3.

The entitlement does not include reimbursement for these costs.

 

a.

Items bought for the transportation or boarding of pets.

 

b.

The transportation and boarding of any animal that the member or dependant owns primarily for economic or business purposes.

4.

To be reimbursed, the member must apply in writing to the Overseas Administration Team, attaching receipts.

5.

This clause does not apply to pets relocated within Australia, in connection with the
long-term posting. These cases are dealt with under Chapter 6 Part 1 Division 4 for pet relocation within Australia.

1.

A member entitled to a removal may choose to store some items not removed to the posting location. 

Exception: This entitlement is not available to an unaccompanied member whose dependants remain in Australia.

2.

A member may arrive at the posting location with no suitable permanent accommodation. In this situation, the removed items can be placed into temporary storage at Commonwealth cost. This can be in Australia or in the overseas location.

3.

When permanent accommodation becomes available, the items may be removed from temporary storage to the residence, at Commonwealth cost.

 

See: For removal conditions see Chapter 6 Part 6 Division 2 clause 6.6.15 (Privately arranged removals – eligibility and conditions for assistance) and clause 6.6.16 (Privately arranged removals – entitlement)

1.

A member may choose to dispose of items, instead of removing them to the posting location or storing them in Australia. The member is entitled to be reimbursed an amount equal to any loss as a result of the disposal.

Exception: If a member sells an item that was obtained through a grant the member is not entitled to a reimbursement under this Part.

2.

For subclause 1, the maximum amount payable is what the Commonwealth would have paid to remove and store the possessions.

3.

To claim this entitlement, the member must apply in writing to the Overseas Administration Team.

1.

In certain situations, a member may discover removed items cannot be accommodated at the new overseas posting location. This excludes necessary items bought while overseas.

Example: A member finds permanent accommodation. Certain items are too large for the new residence.


2.

In these situations, a member may do any of these things.

 

a.

Have the item removed back to Australia and stored at Commonwealth cost for the remainder of the overseas posting.

 

b.

Sell the item and claim any loss on the disposal of the item as in clause 14.3.8, Loss on sale or disposal of items.

 

c.

Store the item overseas, before removal back to Australia.

 

For removals during a posting, see Chapter 15 Part 4 Division 1 clause 15.4.10, Changing housing during posting.

1.

A member is entitled to a removal of items at Commonwealth cost, either to the next posting location or Australia, in these situations.

 

a.

At the end of the posting period.

 

b.

On termination of the posting by the CDF.

 

c.

On leaving the ADF.

1A.

If the member is eligible for a removal from the USA or Canada to Australia, a volumebased removal applies. The CDF may approve a member to fill the available space without consideration of the factors in subclause 2. Additional space is not provided under subclause 3.

2.

When the member has made an inventory of desired items to be removed, the CDF will approve what items may be removed and how they are to be removed. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

Criteria about the return from overseas posting

 

a.

The location from which the member is returning.

 

b.

The period since the member last lived in Australia.

 

c.

The next location to which the member is posted and the circumstances at the posting location.

 

d.

The intended duration of the next posting.

 

e.

Any prospective postings and the member's expected career path.

 

Criteria about the dependants

 

f.

The number, age and health of any dependants of the member. 

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to the residential arrangements of the member and dependants at the next posting location.


 

Criteria about the removal

 

h.

The quantity and nature of the goods to be removed.

 

i.

The most efficient and effective means of transport available to remove the goods.

 

j.

The cost of removal by available means of transport.

 

k.

The need for the goods to arrive as close as possible to the date of the member’s next posting.

 

l.

Any other factor relevant to the removal.

3.

The member is also entitled to an additional 2.25 cubic metres of space to place certain items for removal from the posting location. This is for furniture and whitegoods only. The additional space is provided over and above the volume of goods removed to the post.

4.

The CDF will approve the most efficient and effective transport for the removal.

1.

These items are not acceptable for any overseas removal at Commonwealth cost.

2.

The Commonwealth will not knowingly remove any of the items covered by this subclause. The member must take personal responsibility for any charges or penalties arising from including any of these items in a removal.

 

a.

Dangerous goods.

Examples: Explosive, flammable, combustible or corrosive items.

 

b.

Items that contravene Customs or quarantine regulations, in Australia or the host country.

Examples: Plants, wooden items not allowed through Customs.  

3.

The Commonwealth will not remove any of these items, except under any special conditions that are stated.

 

a.

Furniture, except in special circumstances subject to CDF approval under clause 14.3.5 or 14.3.11.

Examples: Beds, whitegoods, wardrobes, lounge suites, bookcases.

 

b.

Non-portable items that cannot be carried by one person.

Examples: Televisions, stereos, piano.

 

c.

Private vehicles or towable items of any kind.

Examples: Caravans, hobby vehicles, cars, trucks, motorcycles, scooters, gocarts.

 

d.

Water recreational equipment.

Examples: Boats, yachts, jet skis, outboard motors.

 

e.

Aircraft of any sort.

Examples: Hang gliders, gyrocopters.


 

f.

Household furnishings and appliances.

Examples: Carpets, mats, rugs, blinds, awnings, bean bags, mops, brooms or linen baskets.

 

g.

Air conditioners.

Exception: In Papua New Guinea outside Port Moresby, approval may be granted for personal air conditioners to be moved at Commonwealth cost.

 

h.

Large or heavy gardening equipment.

Examples: Ride-on lawn mowers, garbage bins, wheelbarrows, stepladders, garden furniture, sheds, greenhouses, cubby houses, large or heavy barbecue equipment including gas bottles.

 

i.

Perishable foods of any kind, including packaged or frozen food.

1.

A member might be appointed or enlisted outside Australia for service in Australia. In this case, the member is entitled to help with travel and removal to Australia, as follows.

 

a.

Air travel (including rest periods) at Commonwealth expense for the member and any dependants.

 

b.

Rest periods for the member and dependants.

 

c.

Removal of a reasonable amount of personal effects and household items (including furniture) to the location where the member will serve in Australia.

 

 

Exception: This exception applies a limit to the benefit for a member with dependants (unaccompanied), whose dependants elect to make their first Australian home in a personal location. A reasonable amount of the dependants' personal effects may be removed to the personal location at Commonwealth expense.

 

d.

Travel costs, including accommodation costs for authorised rest periods, for the period of travel en route to Australia.

 

e.

Accommodation costs if it is necessary to spend a night in temporary accommodation. This can be before departure and on arrival in Australia.

 

f.

Temporary accommodation allowance and rent allowance at the initial posting location in Australia.

 

 

Exception: This exception applies a limit to the benefit for a member with dependants (unaccompanied) whose dependants elect to make their first Australian home in a personal location. The member may also be entitled to the following conditions.

 

a.

Temporary accommodation allowance for the dependants in the personal location.

 

b.

Rent allowance or a service residence for the dependants in the personal location.

 

 

See: Chapter 7, ADF housing and meals

 

g.

Reimbursement of any medical or migration processing fees.


2.

The baggage entitlements and method of transport are as specified in Chapter 14 Part 4.

See: Chapter 14 Part 4, Travel to and from the posting location

 

1.

A member posted overseas is entitled to be reimbursed the amount of a loss incurred on the sale of a private vehicle. All these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The vehicle must be owned by the member.

 

b.

The member bought the vehicle before the official written notice of the posting was issued.

 

c.

The member must sell the vehicle in Australia because of the long-term posting.

 

d.

The price the member obtained the vehicle for is less than the market price for a vehicle of the same model, age and similar condition.

 

e.

The CDF is satisfied that the member made reasonable efforts to dispose of the vehicle without incurring a loss. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

i.

How the member sought to dispose of the vehicle.

 

ii.

When and how widely the member advertised the vehicle for sale.

 

iii.

The nature and extent of offers made for the vehicle.

 

iv.

Particulars of the sale made by the member.

 

v.

Any other relevant aspect of the sale.

2.

The maximum entitlement under this clause is AUD 1,400.

Exception: If a member buys a vehicle after date of issue of the posting order, the maximum entitlement is AUD 700.

3.

The member must apply in writing to the Overseas Administration Team for reimbursement.

4.

This entitlement applies to one private vehicle for each posting.

5.

A member may choose to transfer their loss on sale entitlement from a private vehicle to a towable item. This includes a caravan or trailer.

1.

A member who is entitled to reimbursement for loss on sale of a vehicle, may choose to store the vehicle instead. All these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The vehicle is owned by the member, on the date the official written notice of the posting was issued.

 

b.

The vehicle is stored in a commercial storage area.

Note: Any private storage with relatives or friends is not a commercial storage area.

2.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed for storage costs up to AUD 1,400. This amount includes maintenance costs included in the storage costs.


3.

The member must meet these costs.

 

a.

Transporting the vehicle from the posting location in Australia to or from the commercial storage facility.

 

b.

Preparing the vehicle for storage.

 

c.

Insurance for the vehicle, if it becomes unregistered.

 

d.

Any damage caused by or to the vehicle, if it becomes unregistered and is unsafe to drive.

 

To be reimbursed under subclause 2, the member must apply in writing to the Overseas Administration Team, attaching receipts.

4.

A member may choose to transfer their storage entitlement from a private vehicle to a towable item. This includes a caravan or trailer.

1.

If a member retains ownership of a vehicle in Australia during the period of posting overseas, they are entitled to a removal of the vehicle on return to Australia.

2.

The maximum amount that may be reimbursed is the cost of removal from the member’s last posting in Australia, to the new posting location in Australia.

3.

The member must meet any costs in excess of subclause 2. This includes any of these amounts.

 

a.

Travel costs from any other storage location.

 

b.

Insurance for the vehicle if it becomes unregistered.

 

c.

Any damage caused by or to the vehicle while it is being removed, if it becomes unregistered and is unsafe to drive.

 

d.

Any damage the vehicle causes while it is being removed if it becomes unregistered and is unsafe to drive.

4.

A member is entitled to a removal of up to two vehicles on return to Australia. The removal is to be carried out under the normal within-Australia provisions.

See: Chapter 6 Part 6, Removals and storage

Exception: Chapter 6 Part 6 Division 5 clause 6.6.34 provides that vehicles to be removed must be registered and roadworthy. That clause does not apply for removal on return to Australia if the member makes a written statement that the vehicle is safe to drive.

 

 

The purpose of transfer allowance is to pay towards miscellaneous costs associated with overseas removals.

 

Members are paid transfer allowance within two months of the scheduled date of departure. This table outlines transfer allowances for members.

 

Item

For a member...

the allowance per person entitled to a removal to the location is AUD...

Moving from Australia to a location overseas

1.

who lived in before departure from Australia

  • 635 for the member
  • 294 for each dependant

2.

with a spouse or interdependent partner

  •                    749 each for the member and spouse or interdependent partner

294 for each dependant (excluding spouse or interdependent partner)

3.

in any other situation

  • 775 for the member
  • 294 for each dependant

Moving from overseas location to Australia

4.

who lived in before departure from the location

  • 79 for the member
  • 133 for each dependant

5.

with a spouse or interdependent partner

  •                    161 each for the member and spouse or interdependent partner
  •                    133 for each dependant (excluding spouse or interdependent partner)

6.

in any other situation

  • 179 for the member
  • 133 for each dependant

Moving from an overseas location to another overseas location

7.

who lived in before departure from the location

  • 301 for the member
  • 229 for each dependant

8.

with a spouse or interdependent partner

  •                    365 each for the member and the spouse or interdependent partner
  •     229 for each dependant (excluding spouse or interdependent partner)

9.

removing from the member’s residence to another residence at the overseas location

  • 152, and
  •                    the costs incurred by the member for telephone disconnection and reconnection

10.

in any other situation

  • 407 for the member
  • 229 for each dependant

 

A member is entitled to be reimbursed for insurance costs, when items are removed overseas at Commonwealth cost. The member is reimbursed the lesser of these two amounts.

 

a.

The cost of world-wide multiple risks insurance to cover the value of the items up to AUD 53,000. This is for a period which:

 

i.

begins on the day the items are removed from the member’s residence in Australia, and

 

ii.

ends on the day the items are returned to the member’s residence in Australia.

 

b.

The cost of the insurance worked out at the rate of AUD 2 per AUD 100 insured.

 

The purpose of this Division is to outline cases where removals may be granted to dependants in special circumstances.

Note: It is generally expected that dependants move with members.

1.

In certain situations, a member and dependant may have items removed from the posting location at different times.

2.

If the total amount for these separate removals is greater than the amount for a single removal, the member must pay the extra amount to the Commonwealth.

3.

The CDF may meet the total cost of all removals and storage charges for special circumstances.

Example: The spouse and children need to remain in Australia or the overseas posting location to complete the school year.

1.

In certain situations, a member on long-term posting is entitled to a removal to move dependants remaining in Australia to another Australian location. All these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The member is unaccompanied.

 

b.

The CDF decides that one or more of these conditions applies.

 

i.

The dependants must vacate a Service residence as a result of the member’s posting.

 

ii.

There are no family members available to provide support for dependent children, in the member’s absence from the location.

 

iii.

The location of the current home is too remote to provide social and educational facilities for dependant children.

 

iv.

The dependant has a medical condition that requires them to move to another location.

 

v.

The safety or welfare of the dependants would be at high risk if they remained in the accommodation.

 

vi.

A change in family circumstances requires urgent action.

 

vii.

The removal is necessary to prevent an emergency.


2.

The CDF may approve a removal at Commonwealth cost to any suitable destination in Australia. The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The location of the member’s next posting.

 

b.

If it is expected that the member will complete their service within 12 months of returning to Australia.

3.

If granted a removal under this clause, the member is entitled to the normal conditions of service for a removal within Australia.

Examples: Storage, pet relocation costs, temporary accommodation allowance, loss on sale of a private vehicle.

See:
Chapter 6, ADF relocation on posting in Australia
Chapter 7 Part 4, Temporary accommodation allowance

4.

A member may be reimbursed the cost of private removal arrangements. The CDF must approve this arrangement before the removal takes place. The limit is not more than the cost of the Commonwealth removal entitlement.

 

 

This Division describes the removal entitlements for a member whose domestic or marital status changes, while serving overseas on long-term posting.

 

When a member marries or has an interdependent partnership recognised at the posting location, there is no removal entitlement to have the spouse’s or interdependent partner's possessions moved to the member’s permanent accommodation overseas.

1.

If a member marries elsewhere than the posting location, the CDF may grant a removal of personal effects to the posting location. These conditions apply.

 

a.

The member must have at least 12 months’ service remaining at the posting location. This time is effective from the approved date the member's spouse travels to accompany the member at the overseas location.

 

b.

Only the spouse’s personal possessions and wedding presents are removed from the place of marriage, to the member’s permanent accommodation at the posting location.

Note: The spouse’s furniture cannot be removed or placed in storage at Commonwealth cost.

2.

If a member has an interdependent partnership recognised by the ADF elsewhere than the posting location, the CDF may grant a removal of personal effects to the posting location. These conditions apply.

 

a.

The member must have at least 12 months’ service remaining at the posting location. This time is effective from the approved date the member's interdependent partner travels to accompany the member at the overseas location.

 

b.

Only the interdependent partner's personal possessions are removed from the place where the couple's common household was established, to the member’s permanent accommodation at the posting location.

Note: The interdependent partner's furniture cannot be removed or placed in storage at Commonwealth cost.

3.

If the new spouse or interdependent partner has a child, the member is entitled to the removal of the child’s personal effects. These conditions must be met.

 

a.

The child is eligible as a member’s dependant for removal purposes.

 

b.

The child normally lives with the spouse or interdependent partner.

 

c.

The child is to live with the member at the overseas posting location.

4.

The Commonwealth is not responsible for costs associated with the full removal, storage or indemnity of the new dependants' goods.

1.

Division 1 clause 14.3.11 applies to the member's and any dependants' removal on the next posting after the member's marriage or ADF recognition of interdependent partnership, whichever is applicable.

2.

On the member's and dependants' arrival in Australia after the long-term posting, the normal provisions for removal within Australia apply.

See: Chapter 6 Part 6, Removals and storage

 

A member on long-term posting overseas may cease to be a member with dependants. This means they no longer have a requirement to maintain a home for dependants at the overseas posting location. The member is entitled to one of these removals for their dependants.

 

a.

Removal of items to the intended location of residence in Australia.

 

b.

Temporary removal of items to storage in Australia, until completion of the overseas posting. In addition, a subsequent removal from storage to the intended location of residence in Australia.

 

c.

Removal of items to any other location. This is provided the cost is no more than the cost if all items been removed at the same time.

 

This Part outlines travel entitlements for journeys taken at the beginning and end of a posting period. This means the journey to the posting location before the settling-in period starts, and the journey from the posting location after the settling-out period ends.

1.

This Part applies to a member, when the member has an official written notice of a posting.

2.

Dependants can receive the same entitlements as the member under this Part. All these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The dependants are being removed to the posting location with the member, at Commonwealth cost.

 

b.

The dependants are able to spend the minimum period under Chapter 12 Part 3 clause 12.3.5 as part of the member's household at the posting location.

 

c.

The dependants are not travelling to a posting designated as unaccompanied.

3.

For this Part, the Commonwealth will not pay for any escorts accompanying a dependant in any circumstances.

 

This Part includes these Divisions.

 

Division 1

Travel entitlements

 

Division 2

Baggage entitlements

 

Division 3

Rest periods

 

Division 4

Dependants not travelling with the member

 

 

In this Division, international best fare has the meaning given in the Department of Finance Resource Management Guide No. 405.

Related Information: Resource Management Guide No. 405, Official International Travel - Use of the Best Fare of the Day.

 

Note: International best fare takes into account matters such as cost, practicality and value for money.

1.

The Commonwealth will pay the cost of members' and dependants' travel to and from the posting location in these situations.

 

a.

To begin the posting.

 

b.

At the end of the posting period, to travel back to Australia, or to the next posting location.

 

c.

On evacuation of the member.

See: Chapter 14 Part 6, Evacuations

 

d.

On termination of the posting by the CDF.

 

e.

On termination of the posting by the member.

2.

The Director Integrated Travel Solutions must approve the routes that may attract travel assistance. Before making the decision they must consider the whole-of-Australian-Government international best fare policy.

 

Note: The list of approved routes is on the Internet at www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac.

3.

Travel assistance may only be paid for a route that the CDF is satisfied meets both of the following conditions.

 

a.

It is a route approved under subclause 2.

Note: Package holidays are not approved under subclause 2, and are not available.

 

b.

It is the international best fare.

 

 

See: Clause 14.4.4A, International best fare

 

Exception: Clause 14.4.7, Alternative travel modes and routes.

4.

This subclause applies if a new dependant joins a member's household. At the end of the posting period, the Commonwealth will provide the fare to Australia for any dependants of the member.

 

See also: Division 4, Dependants not travelling with the member

 

1.

For travel at the beginning and end of a posting period, a member and dependants are entitled to be paid travel costs for accommodation, meals and incidentals.

2.

The travel cost limits payable for meals, accommodation and incidentals for the journey are as follows.

 

a.

For the portion of the journey that is overseas, the cost limits are calculated as if travelling to or from the posting location on short-term duty.

See: Chapter 13 Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

 

 

Exception: If a dependant is less than 12 years old, costs are payable at the reduced rate of two-thirds of those limits.

 

b.

For the portion of the journey within Australia, the cost limits are calculated as for travelling within Australia on posting.

See: Chapter 9 Part 5, Payment of travel costs

1.

The member is entitled to travel business class, if available. This includes connecting flights for the journey to or from the overseas posting location.

2.

If business class is not available, members with the rank of Colonel or lower must travel economy class.

3.

A member is entitled to travel first class, if business class is not available and the member meets either of these conditions.

 

a.

They hold the rank of Brigadier or higher.

 

b.

They have special travel requirements.

4.

A member with special travel requirements is a member travelling to or from the posting location for more than five hours on the aircraft. They must also satisfy one of these conditions.

 

a.

The member is certified by a doctor as being pregnant at the time or travel.

 

b.

The member is accompanying a dependent who is certified by a doctor as being pregnant at the time of travel.

 

c.

The member is accompanying a child under seven years of age at the time of travel.

5.

If a member is unable to accompany their pregnant dependent, the dependent may travel first class, if business class is not available.

6.

If a member is unable to accompany a child under seven years of age, but the child is travelling with the member's spouse or interdependent partner, the spouse or partner and the child may travel first class if business class is not available.


7.

The CDF may approve a member to travel first class in other special circumstances. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

Standards of amenities and hygiene if not travelling first class, both on the ground and on board the aircraft.

 

b.

The member's health.

 

c.

The time of year when travelling.

 

d.

The duration of travel.

 

e.

The nature of duties (if any) being undertaken while travelling.

 

f.

The extent to which the member may be subject to discrimination, within the meaning of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986, while travelling.

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to the member's travel.

1.

The Director Integrated Travel Solutions may approve travel by a route that was not approved under clause 14.4.4. Approval may only be given before the member or dependant has made a booking.

Exception: Approval will not be given for holiday packages.

2.

Only the following costs can be paid for travel approved under subclause 1.

 

a.

Airfares at the class provided for under clause 14.4.6.

See: Clause 14.4.6, Class of air travel for long-term posting

 

b.

Any surface travel.

See: Chapter 9 Part 6, Vehicle allowance

 

c.

Costs for any rest period.

See: Division 3, Rest periods.

3.

The value of airfares and surface travel costs paid under subclause 2 must not be more than the airfare component of the travel that would otherwise be provided under clause 14.4.4 and clause 14.4.5.  

Example: A member's business-class airfare costs under clause 14.4.4 would have been $10,000. The member is given approval to travel by an alternative route. The alternative airfare cost is $15,000. The member must pay the extra $5,000, and must travel by the business-class equivalent.

4.

If the route approved under this clause is cheaper than the route approved under clause 14.4.4 the member is not entitled to the difference.

 

1.

A member may be authorised to travel to or from their posting location by private vehicle.

2.

In this case, the member is entitled to vehicle allowance and travel costs. Incidental costs are payable at half the normal rate.

See: Annex 13.3.A, Travel costs

3.

The entitlement must not be more than what would have been paid for the member's transport if the member had not used the vehicle.

1.

Each member and dependant authorised to travel overseas at Commonwealth cost may transport 30 kg of baggage at Commonwealth cost.

Exception: If the carrier charges a price for each bag rather than for the combined weight of baggage, the entitlement is two suitcases.

2.

This entitlement includes the amount of baggage the carrier allows the passenger to carry for no extra charge.

1.

The CDF may authorise payment for excess baggage which exceeds the limits provided under subclause 14.4.9.1.

2.

Payment of excess baggage is limited by the following conditions.

 

a.

If the carrier charges for the combined weight of baggage, payment may only be made for up to 45 kg of total baggage weight.

Example: A member has 50 kg of baggage and is approved for payment of excess baggage. The carrier charges for baggage weighing more than 25 kg. The Commonwealth will pay for 20 kg of the cost of excess baggage. The member must pay the cost of the additional 5 kg.

 

b.

If the carrier charges per suitcase, payment may only be made for up to three suitcases in total.

Example: A member has four suitcases and is approved for payment of excess baggage. The carrier charges for baggage exceeding two suitcases. The Commonwealth will pay excess baggage for one of the additional suitcases. The member must pay for the other.

 

c.

Costs are limited to those that would apply to travel by the most direct route.

3.

The CDF must consider all the following criteria before making the decision under subclause 1.

 

a.

The nature and content of the baggage, including any special equipment being carried.

Example: Wheelchairs.

 

b.

Removal arrangements made by the Commonwealth.

Example: The Commonwealth may remove a member's household items using sea-freight because it is a lot more cost effective than air-freight. Items can often take four to six weeks to arrive. It is therefore reasonable for the member to carry additional baggage to allow for the extended period of arrival of their household items.

 

c.

The duration and timing of the position.

 

1.

The entitlement in clause 14.4.10 may be converted to unaccompanied baggage or air freight.

2.

If the member chooses to send baggage unaccompanied, the cost limit is as if the member had moved the full entitlement of air baggage at the accompanied rate.

3.

This means that the cost of accompanied baggage plus the cost of unaccompanied baggage, must not be more than the cost of 45 kg of accompanied baggage.

4.

If there is no unaccompanied baggage rate available, air freight may be used on the same principle.

 

Rest periods provide a chance to recover from jet lag, during or after air travel undertaken for duty.

 

A time zone hour is a change of one time zone during air travel. It is measured using Coordinated Universal Time (old Greenwich Mean Time). Summer time and daylight saving time are disregarded for the purposes of this definition.

See:
Chapter 12 Part 3 clause, Definitions time zone hours
Chapter 13 Part 2 Division 2 clause 13.2.7, Definitions – time zone hours
Annex 12.3.A, International time zones

1.

A rest period is between 12 and 24 hours. The member is considered on duty for conditions of service purposes.

2.

This table describes the entitlement to rest periods.

 

Item

If travel by the direct route is…

then the member is entitled to…

1.

for at least four time zone hours, or with a travelling time of at least 12 hours

one rest period.

2.

for at least six time zone hours

two rest periods.

 

3.

A member is taken to be on duty during a rest period. If a rest period taken at the journey’s destination falls outside normal working hours, it will not entitle the member to time off duty instead.

4.

The same entitlement applies to a given journey, whether it is by a direct or indirect route.

5.

The member may choose whether to take a rest period during the journey or at the final destination.

Example 1: A member travels from Sydney to Los Angeles direct. The journey is six time zone hours. The member is entitled to two rest periods and takes them on arrival in Los Angeles.

Example 2: A member is approved to travel from Sydney to New York via London (indirect). The time zone difference between Sydney and New York by the direct route is nine time zone hours, so the member is entitled to two rest periods. The member chooses to take one rest period in London and one on arrival in New York.

6.

A member may have an unavoidable stopover on the journey. If the stopover is at least 12 hours, it will be regarded as a rest period. This will satisfy the rest period entitlement under this clause.

7.

No journey can have more than two rest periods.


8.

For an overnight rest period, the member is entitled to:

 

a.

accommodation costs as if the member were on duty, and

 

b.

meals and incidental costs under Chapter 13 Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas.

1.

This clause applies to a member who has been approved to take recreation leave during or after a journey.

2.

A member may take a rest period at the same location as recreation leave. The duration of the rest period is the same as if the member was to continue the journey without taking leave.

3.

Time spent on a rest period is not to be deducted from recreation leave credits.

1.

In certain circumstances, a member's dependants may travel to or from the posting location at a different time than the member. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that the separate travel is a special case.

 

Examples:

 

a.

The dependant is temporarily medically unfit to travel overseas at the same time as the member.

 

b.

Departure is delayed for the child's educational needs.

 

c.

A relative of the member suffers ill health and the dependant chooses to remain to help the relative.

 

d.

Short posting notice does not provide adequate time to make domestic arrangements before departure.

2.

To qualify for travel at Commonwealth cost, all these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The dependant is being removed to the posting location at Commonwealth cost.

 

b.

The dependant can spend the minimum period under subclause 12.3.5.3 or 12.3.5.4 as part of the member's household at the posting location.

See: Chapter 12 Part 3 clause 12.3.5, definition of dependants

 

c.

The dependant is not travelling to or from the posting location on any other type of Commonwealth-assisted airfare, based on the allowable travel cost.

 

d.

If the dependant returns unaccompanied to Australia at Commonwealth cost, the member must have served at least 12 months at the overseas posting location.

Exception: The CDF may reduce the 12-month limit if there are special circumstances.

3.

This table describes the maximum amounts paid for travel by a dependant, not travelling with the member.

 

Item

For...

The maximum amount payable is the...

1.

a child who travels to or from the posting location, unaccompanied by the member or member's spouse or interdependent partner

allowable travel cost to the location.

2.

any other dependant not travelling with the member

amount that would have been paid by the Commonwealth, if the dependant had accompanied the member for travel.

 

4.

For this clause, the dependant must not travel:

 

a.

before the date of effect of the posting order, or

 

b.

more than 12 months after the member's travel from the posting location.

5.

A dependant who does not travel with the member is not entitled to a rest period.

 

The member may claim costs involved in carrying the dependant's personal baggage. The cost must have been unavoidable.

Examples: It might be necessary to buy portage to help in these situations.

 

a.

The dependant has a disability that prevents them carrying their luggage.

 

b.

The dependant is a child. The flight attendant is not permitted to carry the luggage for the child.

 

The purpose of this Part is to cover the additional costs of meals when a member and dependants are obliged to live in temporary accommodation, including motels and serviced apartments.

1.

This Part applies to a member and their dependants who are authorised to live in temporary accommodation overseas for any of the following reasons.

 

a.

The member is arriving at the posting.

 

b.

The member is leaving the posting.

 

c.

The member's housing has become unfit for occupation.
 

See: Clause 15.4.11, Housing becomes unavailable or unfit.

 

Example: A member is given a long-term posting to Paris. Her household items are being relocated from Australia. She stays in temporary accommodation in Paris for one week until they arrive. She refers to conditions under this Part.

Non-example: A member is given a long-term posting to New York. His household items are being relocated to the overseas post. He stays in an apartment in Sydney for one week before leaving. The member refers to domestic conditions of temporary accommodation allowance.

See: Chapter 7 Part 4, Temporary accommodation allowance.

2.

During a period of settling in and settling out, a member is entitled to overseas living allowance. They must also pay a rent and utilities contribution.

See: Chapter 15 Part 4 Division 4, Rent and utilities contribution

 

Note: Benefits under this Part apply to a deceased member's dependants under clause 15.8.4. However, additional limits may apply under subclause 15.8.4.4.

See: Chapter 15 Part 8 clause 15.8.4, Continuing entitlements for dependants

1.

On arrival at the posting location, the member and dependants may live in temporary accommodation. The member is entitled to a settling in allowance for themself and for each of their dependants.

Exception: The member's spouse or interdependent partner is also a member. Only the member on full overseas living allowance is entitled to a settling in allowance for themself and for each of their dependants.

See: Chapter 15 Part 2, Overseas living allowance

2.

The settling in period begins on the first day of the member’s posting period. It ends on the earlier of these days.

 

a.

The day when permanent accommodation becomes available at the posting location, or

 

b.

six weeks after the day when the member’s posting period begins.


3.

If a member has not obtained permanent accommodation within the period in subclause 2, the CDF may approve a longer period for the allowance. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The availability of suitable accommodation.

 

b.

The action taken by the member to obtain suitable accommodation.

 

c.

The efficient operation of the ADF.

 

d.

Costs associated with extending the period.

 

e.

Any special circumstances relating to the member or their dependants.

 

f.

The reasonable accommodation needs of the member.

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to the provision of suitable accommodation to the member.

4.

If a member refuses or rejects suitable accommodation at the posting location, the entitlement to settling in allowance ceases.

 

Note: The settling-in period of eligibility will be as short as possible and may be less the maximum period specified.

1.

When leaving the posting location, the member and dependants may live in temporary accommodation. The member and dependants are entitled to a settling out allowance each. 

2.

The settling out period begins on the day permanent accommodation becomes unavailable, because of the completion of the member’s posting. The settling out period ends on the day the member’s period of posting ends.

3.

The settling out period cannot be longer than two weeks.

Exception: The CDF may extend this period, if a longer period in temporary accommodation is required.

 

Note: The settling-in period of eligibility will be as short as possible and may be less the maximum period specified.

1.

If arriving at or leaving the posting location within the periods outlined in this Division, these entitlements apply.

 

Item

For...

the allowance for each complete day is...

1.

the member and each dependant 12 years or older

two-thirds of the amount listed for meals at the member's location in Annex 13.3.A.

2.

each dependant less than 12 years old

two-thirds of the amount in item 1.

 


2.

If the accommodation tariff includes the cost of a meal, the amount of meals supplement under subclause 1 is to be reduced by the amounts in this table.

 

Item

For...

the allowance is to be reduced by...

1.

breakfast

25%.

2.

lunch

25%.

3.

dinner

50%.

 

3.

On the first and last days of a period, the entitlement is worked out by multiplying the amounts in subclause 1 by the applicable percentages in this table.

 

Item

Local time of arrival or departure

% rate for day of arrival

% rate for day of departure

1.

Before 0700

100

Nil

2.

0700 – 1300

75

25

3.

1301 – 1900

50

50

4.

After 1900

Nil

100

 

 

4.

A member is not entitled to meals supplement in these situations.

 

a.

If the member or dependant has meals provided or paid for by the Commonwealth.

Example: The member is away on short-term duty at another overseas location. The member has their meal costs paid by the Commonwealth, but not under this Part.

 

b.

During the member's recreation leave, including weekends and public holidays during the leave.

 

c.

While the member occupies accommodation with facilities to allow the member to prepare a cooked meal.

 

 

This Part summarises the conditions of service during evacuations or withdrawals from an overseas posting location.

 

This Part includes these Divisions.

 

Division 1

Evacuations

 

Division 2

Withdrawal from posting

 

Division 3

Loss or damage to possessions overseas

 

 

Evacuation means members and dependants are directed by the Commonwealth to withdraw from the location. This is because of international relations, political, security or other special circumstances at the location.

 

This Division applies to members and their dependants, authorised by the CDF in these situations.

 

a.

A member and dependants are directed to evacuate a posting location, because of an emergency.

 

b.

A member’s dependants are given the option to voluntarily depart from the location.

Examples: Environmental hazard or civil unrest

 

Note: Evacuations may not necessarily be to Australia. They are generally temporary, with the intention of returning to the posting location. Detailed administrative instructions will accompany the authorisation to evacuate.

1.

For entitlements, the evacuation period begins on the day the member or dependant is evacuated from the posting location.

2.

This table lists when the period ends.

 

Item

For a...

the period ends on the earliest of the day when...

1.

member

  • a. the member returns to the posting location.
  • b. the member's posting is terminated.
  • c. the member begins living permanently in Australia or a new posting location.

2.

dependants

  • a. the dependant returns to the posting location.
  • b. the member leaves the posting location because of termination of the member’s posting.
  • c. the dependant begins living permanently in Australia or at a location other than the posting location.

1.

Transport for evacuation is by the means and class of travel available at short notice.

2.

The Commonwealth will pay any excess baggage charges.

 

1.

If a member or dependant is evacuated from the posting location, the member is entitled to be reimbursed these costs.

 

a.

The member’s or dependant’s accommodation at the evacuation location.

 

b.

Settling in allowance as if the member or dependant met both these conditions.

 

i.

They were arriving at the evacuation location as if it were a posting location.

 

ii

They were staying in accommodation without facilities for them to prepare a cooked meal.

2.

If a member or dependant is evacuated to Australia, they are entitled to two-thirds of the amount as if settling in or out. This is worked out as if the member were temporarily performing duty in Canberra for less than 21 days.

See: Chapter 14 Part 5, Settling in and out

1.

During an evacuation the normal long-term posting provisions apply.

See: Chapter 15, Living and working on long-term posting overseas

2.

During evacuation, overseas living allowance continues. This is as if the member or dependant had not been evacuated from the location. Similarly, the member must continue to pay the same rent and utilities contribution.

3.

The Commonwealth will also continue to pay these costs.

 

a.

Telephone rental.

 

b.

Utilities.

 

c.

Employment of any domestic or gardening assistance.

 

The member is entitled to these payments for the period of evacuation.

 

a.

Overseas living allowance that would have applied had they not been evacuated.

See: Chapter 15 Part 2, Overseas living allowance

 

b.

Any unavoidable costs incurred at the posting location.

See: Clause 15.2.32, Continuing and unavoidable costs during absence

 

1.

If a member or dependant is evacuated from the overseas posting location, the member may be reimbursed the cost of clothes and other personal items.

2.

The CDF must decide it is essential for the member or dependant to buy clothes or other personal items to live at the evacuation location. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The circumstances of the evacuation of the member or dependant.

 

b.

The locations involved in the evacuation.

 

c.

The expected duration of the evacuation.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the evacuation.

 

If a member is evacuated from their posting location, they are entitled to have these items stored at Commonwealth expense, for the period of evacuation.

 

a.

Items as if moving from one residence to another at the posting location.

See: Clause 15.4.10, Changing housing during posting

 

b.

A private vehicle owned by the member or dependant.

 

A member and dependants may incur medical, dental and hospital costs at an overseas evacuation centre. The Commonwealth will pay these costs, as if the member and dependants were still at the posting location.

See: Chapter 15 Part 5, Excess health costs

1.

A member's child may be evacuated from the posting location to another overseas location. This clause applies as if the member was on long-term posting to the other location, for the period of the evacuation.

2.

A member's child may be evacuated from the member's location back to Australia. If the child continues to study the curriculum of the school at the posting location, these benefits continue to apply. These are as if the child were attending the school at the posting location, for the period of the evacuation. 

 

a.

Clause 15.6.11, Education assistance entitlement – general.

 

b.

Clause 15.6.12, School transport costs.

 

c.

Clause 15.6.13, Compulsory examination fees.

 

d.

Clause 15.6.14, Foreign language tuition.

 

e.

Clause 15.6.15, Remedial tuition.

See: Chapter 15 Part 6, Education costs for children

3.

The CDF can pay an amount considered reasonable for additional costs incurred as a result of distance education mode.

1.

During a period of evacuation, a member may travel from the posting location to another location for a reunion visit with dependants. In this case, the member is entitled to be reimbursed these costs.

 

a.

Return travel by the member and dependants to the location during the period of evacuation. This is as if the travel were reunion travel under Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 3, Reunion Travel.

 

b.

Accommodation that the CDF considers suitable at the location for the period of the reunion visit. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

i.

The cooking and dining facilities in the accommodation.

 

ii.

If the facilities are similar to those generally available in an apartment.

 

iii.

The services provided in the accommodation.

2.

Under this clause, the total period of reunion visits in a year must be no longer than the period of recreation leave accrued for a year’s service at the member’s posting location.

3.

In addition to this clause, the member and dependant are still entitled to travel under Chapter 16 Part 4, Assisted leave travel. This must be to a regional leave centre or relief centre within the meaning of that Part.

 

The Commonwealth provides an amount for any lost or damaged possessions owing to an evacuation.

See: Division 3, Loss or damage to possessions overseas

 

The CDF may reimburse a member who must remain at the posting location for any extraordinary costs incurred.

See: Chapter 16 Part 7, Extraordinary costs

 

1.

The CDF may direct members and dependants to permanently leave a posting location suddenly and unexpectedly, and return to Australia. In this situation, members may be paid an amount for any financial losses.

2.

This clause does not apply in these situations.

 

a.

Evacuations.

See: Chapter 14 Part 6 Division 1, Evacuations

 

b.

Management-initiated early withdrawal of a member from a long-term posting. In this situation, it is normal practice to allow enough time for personal arrangements to be completed before departure.

3.

The CDF may authorise the member to be paid an amount for the losses resulting from the withdrawal. In assessing the amount, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The circumstances in which the member leaves the long-term posting.

 

b.

The length of time given to the member to leave the posting location.

 

c.

The expected duration of the posting and the posting period left to serve at the time of leaving.

 

d.

The extent to which the member entered into unavoidable financial commitments in the reasonable expectation that the posting would run its full term.

 

e.

Any costs reasonably incurred by the member, that would have reduced if the posting had run its full term.

Example: The member has a pantry full of groceries worth AUD 1,000. If the posting had run its course, the member would have allowed the pantry contents to run down from six months before departure, to about AUD 400. Consideration could be given to reimbursing AUD 600 to the member.

 

f.

Any other factor relevant to the posting.

4.

Other provisions of Chapters 14, 15 and 16 also apply in this situation.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to provide an amount for any lost or damaged possessions during an overseas posting. This is only if the loss or damage is directly caused by a specified event.

See:
Clause 14.6.20, Definition – possessions
Subclause 14.6.21.1, Specified events

 

This Division applies to:

 

a.

a member (including a member on Reserve service) on a long-term posting overseas.

 

b.

dependants living with the member overseas.

 

For this Division, possessions means these items.

 

a.

Items approved for removal to an overseas posting location at Commonwealth expense.

 

b.

Items approved for removal to another residence at the overseas posting, or back to Australia, at Commonwealth expense.

 

c.

Food, beverages and other household consumable goods.

 

d.

Private vehicles.

 

Note: Loss or damage to a member's clothing or effects used for service is not covered by this Part.

See: Chapter 10 Part 4, Loss or damage to clothing or personal effects

1.

Members are eligible for help if their possessions are lost or damaged as a result of one of these specified events.

 

a.

War.

 

b.

Civil disorder.

 

c.

Natural disaster.

 

d.

Another similar event.


2.

These three conditions must be met.

 

a.

Either the member fully insured the possessions, but was unsuccessful claiming from the insurer despite reasonable attempts.

Or the member was unable to obtain appropriate insurance at a reasonable cost to cover the possessions in the circumstances in which they were lost or damaged.

 

b.

The member took reasonable steps to avoid the loss or damage.

 

c.

The member assigns to the Commonwealth the right to recover the loss or damage from an insurer or another person. The member also takes all necessary steps to help the Commonwealth with its claim.

4.

The member is entitled to an amount the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. In assessing the amount, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The nature and extent of the possessions lost or damaged.

 

b.

An amount that an insurer would pay to the member for loss or damage.

 

c.

Any professional valuation of the loss or damage.

 

d.

The estimated residual value of the possessions. This must take into account the:

 

i.

initial cost, and

 

ii.

estimated amount of depreciation.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the loss or damage.

5.

The payment must be reduced if both these conditions are met.

 

a.

The member has not insured the possessions, or has underinsured them.

 

b.

The CDF considers that it would have been reasonable to fully insure them against the event that caused the loss or damage.

6.

The amount must be reduced by the amount the member could reasonably expect to have been paid by an insurer, if the goods had been adequately covered.

Example 1: The member has underinsured possessions worth AUD 10,000. The possessions are destroyed in an earthquake. The insurer pays AUD 5,000. The member could have fully insured against earthquake damage at reasonable cost. The member gets no payment under this clause.

Example 2: Possessions worth AUD 20,000 are destroyed in a civil war. Insurance cover for acts of war is not available at the posting location. The member gets the full amount under this clause.

1.

This table shows the amount a member may be paid for loss or damage to a private vehicle.

 

Situation

Entitlement

Loss of private vehicle

The estimated residual value of the vehicle immediately before the loss occurred.

Damage to private vehicle

The difference between estimated residual values, both before and after the damage.

 


2.

This is how to work out the estimated residual value of the member’s vehicle.

 

a.

Find out how much the member paid to buy the vehicle.

 

b.

Subtract an amount of depreciation the CDF assesses as reasonable in the circumstances.

3.

When assessing the amount of depreciation, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The criteria set out in subclause 14.6.21.4.

 

b.

The type and cost of the vehicle bought by the member.

 

c.

The age of the vehicle when bought, and the period the member owned the vehicle.

 

d.

The rate of depreciation that would usually occur on a similar vehicle at the member's posting location.

 

e.

The estimated cost of repairing any defects to the vehicle.

 

f.

The insured value of the vehicle.

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to the member's ownership of the vehicle.

 

Example: A member owned a vehicle for two years. The original value was AUD 50,000. After two years, the CDF decided it had depreciated AUD 15,000. Its estimated residual value is therefore AUD 35,000.

1.

The CDF can direct that a member's possessions are presumed lost on a specific date.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The circumstances in which the member ended or interrupted a long-term posting and left the posting location.

 

b.

The nature of the possessions abandoned by the member at the location, and their condition and value at that time.

 

c.

The likelihood that the member may be able to recover the possessions in a reasonable condition for use.

 

d.

The likelihood of the member resuming the posting or returning to the location.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the member's loss of possessions.

3.

The CDF is not to give the direction in subclause 1 unless the member assigns the possessions to the Commonwealth.

 

 

 

 

This Chapter sets out conditions of service for members living and working on a long-term posting overseas.

 

This Chapter includes the following Parts:

 

Part 1

Overview

 

Part 2

Overseas living allowance

 

Part 3

Travel during a long-term posting

 

Part 4

Housing

 

Part 5

Excess health costs

 

Part 6

Education costs for children

 

Part 6A

Foreign language training for spouse or partner

 

Part 7

Club membership

 

Part 8

Death overseas of member or dependant

 

 

This Chapter sets out conditions of service for members living and working on a long-term posting overseas. It covers the period from when a member has settled in and is living in permanent accommodation at the posting, until the end of the posting period.

1.

This Chapter applies to a member (including a member on Reserve service) who is on a long-term posting overseas.

2.

Despite subclause 1, a member who meets both the following conditions and may be granted the conditions listed in subclause 4.

 

a.

The member has been granted a period of part-time leave without pay.

 

b.

The member is performing duty overseas.

 

Note: This means that for a member who meets the requirements of subclause 2, any prerequisites of posting overseas are taken not to apply.

3.

The following parts of this Chapter apply to a member who meets the conditions in subclause 2.

Related Information: See Clause 5.8.26, Other conditions of service that apply, for the conditions applying to members performing part-time leave without pay overseas

 

Item

Condition

Reference

1.

Public holidays

Clause 15.1.4

2.

Travel for short-term duty while on long-term posting

Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 1

3.

Vehicle allowances

Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 4

4.

Entitlement – funeral costs

Clause 15.8.3

 

This Chapter does not apply to a member if either of these conditions applies.

 

a.

They are not entitled to salary.

 

b.

They are on a scholarship, bursary or endowment for studying overseas from an organisation other than the Commonwealth.

Example: Rhodes Scholarship.

 

1.

A maximum of 13 public holidays can be observed in any calendar year at any posting location.

2.

The CDF may direct which days members are to observe as part of the 13 days. The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The public holidays generally observed at the posting location.

 

b.

The efficient operation of the ADF at the posting location.

 

Exception: If a posting location has no listing of holidays directed to be observed by the CDF, then the Canberra public holiday schedule applies.

3.

Members are to observe public holidays on the following basis.

 

a.

If they are on duty, they observe a public holiday at the location where they are actually performing duty. However, that public holiday is not counted as one of the 13 days.

Example: A member on long-term posting in London travels to Paris on short-term duty from 12-16 July. The member observes Bastille Day in Paris on 14 July.

 

b.

If they are on leave, they observe the public holidays as directed by the CDF for their posting location.

Example: A member on long-term posting in Washington DC takes leave at the end of their posting and travels back to Australia by an indirect route. While the member is in transit, they are still subject to the public holidays observed in Washington DC. If that posting ends while they are still on leave, they become subject to the public holidays observed at their new posting location.

4.

A member may apply to the CDF to substitute a different day for a public holiday they would otherwise observe. The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

Any Service requirement that the member remain on duty that day.

 

b.

If the substitute day is of cultural or religious significance to the member.

 

Example 1: A member is directed to work on a public holiday observed at their posting location. The member may apply to take a different day off instead.

Example 2: A member on long-term posting in Jakarta is required to travel on short-term duty to Australia for a month. As a result, the member misses a public holiday in Jakarta. On the basis that short-term duty may lead to the gain or loss of a public holiday, the member is not granted any time off instead.

1.

Members are not required to attend for duty on the following days.

 

Item

For the Christmas stand-down of...

the stand-down dates are...

1.

2015-2016

24 December 2015.

29 December 2015.

30 December 2015.

31 December 2015.

 

2.

...


3.

A Commanding Officer may determine that the member must perform duty on a day listed in subclauses 1 or 2. The Commanding Officer should consider if there are pressing operational, preparatory or safety needs that prevent the member from being absent.

4.

Absences are treated as short absence when not required for duty.

 

Example: A member is not required to attend for duty on 30 and 31 December 2009. The CDF has directed under subclause 15.1.4.2 that 1 January 2010 is not to be observed as a public holiday at that post. The member must work on 1 January 2010, or be granted another type of leave.

 

This clause applies to a member who is on long-term posting to a position on Manhattan Island, USA. The member's posting location is as follows.

 

Item

If the CDF...

then the member's posting location under Annex 15.2.A is...

1.

directs the member to live on Manhattan Island

USA Manhattan.

2.

does not direct the member to live on Manhattan Island

USA New York State, excluding Manhattan.

 

A member on long-term duty overseas who is seriously or very seriously ill, may be eligible for support under the Australians dangerously ill scheme under Chapter 17 Part 3A.

See: Chapter 17 Part 3A, Australians dangerously ill scheme – overseas

 

 

This Part sets out provisions on overseas living allowance. It covers these matters.

 

a.

The different elements of the allowance.

 

b.

Members who are entitled to the allowance.

 

c.

The rates for each of the four elements of the allowance.

 

This Part includes these Divisions and Annexes:

 

Division 1

Overview

 

Division 2

Cost of living adjustment

 

Division 3

Post adjustment

 

Division 4

Child allowance

 

Division 5

Child reunion allowance

 

Division 6

Other matters affecting overseas living allowance

 

Division 7

Additional food and clothing allowances

 

Annex 15.2.A

Post indexes

 

1.

The purposes of overseas living allowance are as follows.

 

a.

To help maintain the purchasing power of a member's disposable income, and an equivalent standard of living. It compares the cost of goods and services between Australia and the posting location overseas.

 

b.

To help the member meet unexpected living costs associated with long-term posting.

 

c.

To help the member meet some specific additional costs at the overseas posting location.

Examples: Communications, holidays, vehicle depreciation, winter clothing.

2.

Overseas living allowance is not meant to do any of these things.

 

a.

Increase a member's income.

 

b.

Make up for loss of income earned by the member's spouse or interdependent partner.

 

c.

Attract members into overseas service.

3.

The allowance is notional. This means that it is based on what members in general would be expected to spend, rather than on their actual individual costs.

 

This Part applies during a posting period for a member who is on a long-term posting overseas.

1.

This Part does not apply to a member who is away from their posting location. Division 6 contains exceptions to this rule.

 

See: Division 6
Clause 15.2.30, Recreation leave
Clause 15.2.31, Absence from posting location
Clause 15.2.33, Members leaving posting location before their dependants

 

See also: Part 1 clause 15.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to. Clause 15.1.3 outlines some other situations in which members are not entitled to overseas living allowance or any other long-term posting conditions.

2.

This Part does not apply to a member while they are on a period of long service leave. This is because overseas living allowance is not a relevant allowance for the purpose of Chapter 5 Part 3.

 

1.

Overseas living allowance is subject to constant change. These changes are the result of a number of factors, including the following.

 

a.

Periodic price reviews.

 

b.

Measured changes in exchange rates.

 

c.

Any changes to an individual's salary.

 

d.

Any changes to an individual's family circumstances.

2.

The changes to overseas living allowance can be large, and can occur with little or no warning. The allowance might go up or down.

 

Note: Every effort is made to give members advance notice of these changes.

1.

Disposable income for ADF members is worked out as follows.

 

Step

Action

1.

Add together the member's annual rates of salary and allowances, as listed in subclause 2.

Exception: Executive vehicle allowance.

2.

Work out their personal income tax and Medicare levy liability on the total amount of step 1.

Note: Personal income tax liability is worked out by applying the standard Pay as You Go (PAYG) income tax scales to the total amount of step 1. Medicare levy liability is worked out as follows.

a. For members without dependants and those accompanied by a spouse or interdependent partner who is an ADF member — nil.

b. For all other members — 0.75% of the total amount of step 1.

3.

Subtract the total amount in step 2 from the amount in step 1. The result is the member's disposable income.

 

2.

These are the member's annual rates for step 1.

 

 

Item

Benefit

DFRT Determination

Published in PACMAN at:

1.

Clearance diver allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.14

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.14

2.

Diving allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.6

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.6

3.

Flying disability allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.7

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.7

4.

Hardship allowance at the rate payable for the location to which the member is posted on long-term duty.

-

Chapter 16 Part 2


Item

Benefit

DFRT Determination

Published in PACMAN at:

5.

Higher duties allowance (but only for a member who is posted to the position for three months or longer)

-

Chapter 4 Part 1

6.

Language proficiency allowance

DFRT No. 14 of 1992

Chapter 4 Part 3 Division 8

7.

Maritime disability allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.9

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.9

8.

Maritime sustainability allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division C.1

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division C.1

9.

Paratrooper allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.16

Chapter 4 Part 3 Division 10

10.

Salary

DFRT No. 15 of 2008

Chapter 3 Part 1

11.

Service allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.2

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.2

12.

Special forces disability allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.12

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.12

13.

Special forces sustainability allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division C.2

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division C.2

14.

Submarine escape disability allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013 Division B.8

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.8

15.

Uniform allowance

-

Chapter 10 Part 1

16.

Unpredictable explosives allowance

DFRT No. 11 of 2013

Chapter 4 Part 2 Division B.15

 

3.

To work out the cost of living adjustment of overseas living allowance for ADF members, this definition must be applied to the formula in clause 15.2.11.

1.

A post index shows the relative cost of living at the posting location, compared with Australia.

Example 1: A country has a post index of 125.00. The country's cost of living is assessed as 25% higher than Australia's.

Example 2: If a country is cheaper to live in than Australia, the country is given an index of 100.00.

2.

Post indexes are listed in column 2 of Annex 15.2.A. The index that applies is the one listed for the member’s posting location. If an actual index is not listed for a posting location within a country, the 'Other' index listed for the country must be applied to the location.

3.

The post index is worked out each year from a survey of local prices and exchange rates carried out by a data service provider. The list of post indexes may later be varied as a result of one of these changes.

 

a.

Creation of a new posting location.

 

b.

Exchange rate movements (see subclause 4).

 

c.

A special analysis of costs at the posting location.

Note: The post might ask for a special analysis because of a specific change in circumstances.


4.

Before a determination is made to vary a post index, the following processes are followed.

 

a.

The administrator checks that both the following conditions apply.

 

i.

There have been at least two pay periods since the post index was last varied.

 

ii.

There has been an exchange rate movement (up or down) of 2% or more since the post index was last varied.

 

b.

The following table shows the detailed steps used by the administrator to recommend that a post index should be varied.

 

Step

Action

1.

Obtain the recent exchange rate for the posting location from the data service provider.

2.

Obtain the previous varied exchange rate. This is the rate that was current the last time the post index was varied.

3.

Calculate the variation (%) between the recent and previous varied exchange rates described in steps 1 and 2. This is done using the following formula.

exchange rate variation (%)

=

recent exchange rate – previous varied exchange rate

x 100

previous varied exchange rate

4.

Determine whether the post index will vary.

a.

If the variation is less than 2% (up or down) recommend not to vary the post index.

b.

If the variation is 2% or more (up or down) recommend to vary the post index.

 

 

Note 1: Local exchange rates for each posting location are monitored regularly.

Note 2: Exchange rates are supplied by a data service provider engaged by the Department of Defence.

Note 3: The data comparison and calculation is done by the Directorate of Military Conditions and Housing Policy.

5.

The new post index will take effect as soon as practicable after the variation is worked out. When a variation is applied, the exchange rate that led to the change will become the new base for working out future variations.

6.

Column 3 of Annex 15.2.A shows the index published for the posting location by the data service provider. This index is not used in working out overseas living allowance, because the post index used for this purpose must not be less than 100.

 

1.

A member on long-term posting is entitled to overseas living allowance for their posting location.

2.

This table sets out the purpose of the four elements of overseas living allowance.

 

Item

Element

Purpose

1.

Cost of living adjustment

To help maintain the purchasing power of members' disposable income, and an equivalent standard of living.

See: Division 2

2.

Post adjustment

To help members meet extra living costs that are likely to be incurred as a result of living overseas.

See: Division 3

3.

Child allowance

To help with the extra costs of maintaining a dependent child at the posting location.

See: Division 4

4.

Child reunion allowance

To help members with the costs of maintaining communication with children who live elsewhere, and having their children visit them at the posting location.

See: Division 5

 

A member's entitlement to overseas living allowance for a period must be reduced by any amount of mission subsistence allowance paid to the member by the United Nations for that period.

  •  

Cost of living adjustment is a payment to help maintain the purchasing power of members' disposable income, and an equivalent standard of living.

 

Work out a member's cost of living adjustment using this formula:

 

Disposable income   x 

Post index    100

 

 

100

 

 

See: Division 1
Clause 15.2.7, Disposable income for ADF members
Clause 15.2.8, Post index
Annex 15.2.A, Post indexes

1.

Dual entitlement means all the following conditions are met.

 

a.

A member is eligible for overseas living allowance under this Part.

 

b.

The member's spouse or interdependent partner is eligible for a payment that meets both the following conditions.

 

i.

It is comparable to overseas living allowance.

 

ii.

It is paid under this Part, or associated with other Commonwealth employment.

 

c.

The member is posted to the same location as their spouse or interdependent partner.

 

Example: A member is posted to Jakarta. The member's spouse is an APS employee in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and is on a long-term posting to Jakarta for the same period as the member. The member is eligible for overseas living allowance. The member's spouse is paid allowances for living overseas by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The member has a dual entitlement.

2.

In this case, the Commonwealth will not pay both the member and spouse or interdependent partner the full amount of overseas living allowance.

3.

The Commonwealth will pay one person the full overseas living allowance. The other person will only be paid the cost of living adjustment to help maintain the purchasing power of their salary.

4.

The member and spouse or interdependent partner have the option of choosing the person who will only be paid the cost of living adjustment. The option is set out in this table.

 

Item

If...

and...

then...

1.

both the member and spouse or interdependent partner would be eligible for overseas living allowance

they jointly nominate the person who will only be paid the cost of living adjustment

the nominated person is entitled only to cost of living adjustment for the posting period.

 


5.

If the member and spouse or interdependent partner do not choose under subclause 4, this table applies.

 

Item

If...

and...

then...

1.

both the member and spouse or interdependent partner would be eligible for overseas living allowance and the member has the lower disposable income

they do not jointly nominate the person who will only be paid the cost of living adjustment

the member is entitled only to cost of living adjustment for the period of the posting.

2.

both the member and spouse or interdependent partner would be eligible for overseas living allowance, and they have the same disposable income

they do not jointly nominate the person who will only be paid the cost of living adjustment, and the member has the shorter period of service

 

Higher duties allowance is included in a member’s disposable income if it has been approved for three months or more. The three months must have been continuous.

  •  

Post adjustment helps members meet extra living costs that are likely to be incurred as a result of living overseas. This includes the extra costs of maintaining communication with Australia.

1.

Post adjustment is worked out as a percentage of the member's salary, under this table. All calculations are in Australian dollars.

 

Item

Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4

Type of member

For a salary of AUD 55,000 or less, the member gets...

plus percentage of salary between AUD 55,000 & AUD 85,000

plus percentage of salary above AUD 85,000

1.

Accompanied member

AUD 18,150

33%

16.5%

2.

Unaccompanied member

AUD 12,100

22%

11%

 

2.

These are examples of how to work out the post adjustment.

Example 1: A member's salary is AUD 35,000 and the member is unaccompanied. Only column 2 is used to work out the rate of post adjustment.

Column 2 rate = AUD 12,100 a year. That is the amount of post adjustment.

 

Example 2: A member's salary is AUD 67,000 and they are posted as an accompanied member. This is how to work out the post adjustment.

Column 2 (AUD 18,150) + column 3 (ie 33% of the difference between AUD 55,000 and AUD 67,000 = 33% of AUD 12,000)

AUD 18,150 + AUD 3,960 (33% of AUD 12,000) = AUD 22,110

The amount of post adjustment is AUD 22,110 a year.

 

Example 3: A member's salary is AUD 92,000 and the member is posted unaccompanied. This is how to work out the post adjustment.

Column 2 + column 3 + column 4

AUD 12,100 + AUD 6,600 (22% of AUD 30,000) + AUD 770 (11% of the difference between AUD 92,000 and AUD 85,000) = AUD 19,470 a year.

 

Example 4: A member's salary is AUD 100,000 and they are posted as an accompanied member. This is how to work out the post adjustment.

Column 2 + column 3 + column 4

AUD 18,150 + AUD 9,900 (33% of AUD 30,000) + AUD 2,475 (16.5% of AUD 15,000) = AUD 30,525.

 

 

A member may apply to the CDF for an annual supplementary post adjustment of AUD 1,200. Both these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The member must have been directed by the CDF to live in Manhattan on a long-term posting.

 

b.

The CDF decides that there is an obligation for the member to pay a Christmas bonus. This bonus must be for apartment and garaging services.

 

 

Child allowance helps with the extra costs of maintaining a dependent child at the posting location.

 

A member is not entitled to both child reunion allowance and child allowance at the same time for the same child.

See: Division 5, Child reunion allowance

See also:
Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to
Part 1 clause 15.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to
Division 1 clause 15.2.5, Member this Part does not apply to

1.

This table sets out when eligibility for child allowance begins.

 

Item

Eligibility begins on the later of...

1.

The day the member's period of posting begins.

2.

The day the child arrives to begin living at the member's posting location.

 

2.

This table sets out when eligibility for child allowance ends.

 

Item

Eligibility ends on the later of...

1.

The day the member's posting period ends.

2.

The day the member becomes eligible for child reunion allowance for the child.

3.

Four weeks after the day the child stops living at the member's posting location.

1.

The amount of child allowance is based on the member's salary, the age of the child and the local post index.

2.

This table shows how to work out the amount a member is entitled to be paid.

 

Step

Action

1.

Work out 1.5% of the member's salary.

2.

If the child is:

  •                    a. under 12 years old, then add AUD 1,500 to the step 1 amount.
  •                    b. 12 or more years old, then add AUD 2,500 to the step 1 amount.

3.

Multiply the step 2 amount by the post index.

See: Annex 15.2.A, Post Indexes

 


 

Example: A member is on long-term posting in Paris. The member has the following.

 

a.

A salary of AUD 55,000.

 

b.

Two children, aged 13 and 10.

 

c.

A post index of 133.2.

3.

This table shows how to work out the total child allowance for the two children.

 

Item

For the child aged...

the child allowance is...

1.

10 years

A: AUD 55,000 x 0.015 = AUD 825

B: AUD 825 + AUD 1,500 = AUD 2,325

C: AUD 2,325 x 133.2% = AUD 3,096.90

2.

13 years

A: AUD 55,000 x 0.015 = AUD 825

B: AUD 825 + AUD 2,500 = AUD 3,325

C: AUD 3,325 x 133.2% = AUD 4,428.90

 

Total for both children

AUD 3,096.90 + AUD 4,428.90 = AUD 7,525.80

1.

This clause applies to a member who meets all the following conditions.

 

a.

The member has a dependant child.

See: Chapter 12 Part 3 clause 12.3.5, Definition of dependant

 

b.

The member has received any of the following benefits.

 

i.

Carer allowance for a child under the Social Security Act 1991.

 

ii.

Double orphan pension under the Social Security Act 1991.

 

iii.

Family tax benefit (Part A and Part B rate) under the A New Tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999.

 

iv.

Parenting payment (single) under the Social Security Act 1991.

 

 

See:
Social Security Act 1991
A New Tax System (Family Assistance) Act 1999

 

c.

The benefit described in paragraph b. is reduced or lost for either of the following reasons.

 

i.

The child or the parent who normally receives the benefit described in paragraph b, is away from Australia because of the member's long-term overseas posting.

 

ii.

The benefit described in paragraph b. is reduced because the member receives money from Defence for the child's education costs due to their long-term overseas posting.

2.

The member is entitled to an amount equal to the reduction in the amount of any benefit set out in paragraph 1.b.


3.

At the end of the long-term overseas posting, the member continues to be entitled to the additional amount under subclause 2 in either of the following circumstances.

 

a.

The child or parent returns to Australia before beginning another long-term overseas posting.

 

b.

While the child or parent is in Australia, they are ineligible for the relevant benefit because of the expected absence due to the next long-term overseas posting.

4.

The member is entitled to continue receiving the additional amount under subclause 2, if all of the following conditions are met.

 

a.

They have been entitled to an additional amount under subclause 2.

 

b.

A parent of the child returns to Australia. Within three weeks, the parent applies for the benefit for which they were entitled to the additional amount under subclause 2.

5.

The allowance under subclause 4 is payable for the period starting on the day of the parent's return. It ends the day before they become entitled to the relevant benefit.

 

Child reunion allowance helps members with these costs.

 

a.

Maintaining communication with children who live elsewhere.

 

b.

Having their children visit them at the posting location.

 

This Division applies to a member who does not have their dependent children living with them at the long-term posting location.

 

A member is not entitled to both child reunion allowance and child allowance at the same time for the same child.

See: Division 4, Child allowance

See also:
Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to
Part 1 clause 15.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to
Division 1 clause 15.2.5, Member this Part does not apply to

 

A member is entitled to child reunion allowance for the posting period, for each dependent child who lives away from the posting location. This is only if the child is also eligible for at least one reunion visit each year.

 

This table shows how to work out the rate of child reunion allowance for a child.

 

Step

Action

1.

Work out the rate of child allowance that would apply to the child.

See: Division 4 clause 15.2.21, Working out child allowance

2.

Multiply the rate from step 1 by 75%.

 

 

Example: A member is entitled to child reunion allowance for a dependent child who attends school in Australia. The child is 13 years old. The annual rate of child allowance would be AUD 4,428.90. The annual rate of child reunion allowance is 75% of that rate, or AUD 3,321.68.

 

This Division explains how specific circumstances may affect a member's overseas living allowance.

 

This Division applies to a member in any of these situations.

 

a.

The member is on recreation leave.

 

b.

The member is temporarily away from the posting location on duty.

 

c.

The member has been evacuated from their posting location.

 

d.

A member has spouse or dependant who is temporarily away from the posting location.

 

e.

The member leaves a posting location before their dependants.

 

f.

The member has a period of unused leave that accrued during the posting period.

 

g.

The member is serving a period of detention.

1.

A member continues to accrue recreation leave while on long-term posting overseas.

See: Chapter 5 Part 2, Recreation leave

2.

Overseas living allowance is payable during the member's leave, subject to these conditions.

 

a.

It is only payable for the period of recreation leave that the member has accrued on their long-term posting.

 

b.

It is payable for the period in paragraph a, no matter where the member takes the leave during their long-term posting.

 

c.

The limits in clause 15.2.34 apply to leave taken after the posting ends.

1.

This clause applies to a member who is temporarily away from the posting location on duty or paid leave for a period of more than one day.

Exceptions: Recreation leave, long service leave.

See: Chapter 5 Part 2, Recreation leave, and Part 3, Long service leave

2.

An unaccompanied member remains entitled to full overseas living allowance for up to four weeks of continuous absence. After the first four weeks, the member is only entitled to the cost of living adjustment.

3.

An accompanied member remains entitled to the full accompanied rate of overseas living allowance until after four weeks of continuous absence by the member's spouse or interdependent partner, who was living with the member at the posting location.


4.

After a continuous absence of four weeks by the member's spouse or interdependent partner, the member is to be treated as an unaccompanied member.

Example: An accompanied member leaves the posting location. Two weeks later, the member's spouse or interdependent partner leaves. Four weeks after the member's spouse or interdependent partner leaves, the member goes on to the unaccompanied rate of overseas living allowance. Later the member's spouse or interdependent partner returns and the member resumes the accompanied rate.

5.

A member may be recalled to duty at a location during assisted leave travel authorised under Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 7 or Chapter 16 Part 4. In these cases, the member is entitled to the following for the period of the recall.

 

a.

Travel costs at the rate for the location in Annex 13.3.A.

 

b.

Overseas living allowance at the rate for the member's posting location.

 

c.

For a member who uses accommodation in Australia supplied through the Commonwealth's contracted service provider, travel costs and accommodation in accordance with Chapter 9 Part 5 Division 2. Contracted service provider is as defined in clause 9.0.3, Definitions.

 

See:

1. Chapter 9 Part 5 Division 2, Travel on Defence business using the travel card

2. Chapter 9 clause 9.0.3, Definitions

 

d.

For a member who uses commercial accommodation in Australia but who does not meet the requirements of paragraph c, travel costs paid in accordance with Annex 9.5.A.

See: Annex 9.5.A, Amounts for accommodation, meals and incidentals

6.

When the member's spouse or interdependent partner returns to the posting location, the member again becomes an accompanied member.

1.

A member may be temporarily away from their posting location on duty, or for reasons beyond their control.

Examples: Illness, injury and hospitalisation.

2.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed certain continuing and unavoidable costs at their posting location during their absence. All these conditions apply.

 

a.

Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that the member could not reasonably avoid incurring the costs.

 

b.

The member would normally be paid for the costs through overseas living allowance or another benefit under this Chapter.

 

c.

The member's overseas living allowance or other benefit has stopped.

3.

These costs can be reimbursed.

 

a.

The continued employment of domestic and gardening help.

 

b.

Rent and utilities.

 

c.

Telephone rental.

1.

A member might end their long-term posting and leave the posting location before their dependants. A member who has a dependant who is unable to leave with them, is entitled to continued payment of overseas living allowance. The rate will be whatever rate applies to the member from time to time.

See: Chapter 12 Part 3
Clause 12.3.2, Definition of accompanied member
Clause 12.3.20, Definition of unaccompanied member

2.

Overseas living allowance is only payable for the shortest of these periods.

 

a.

The period that the dependant remains at the posting location after the member leaves.

 

b.

Four weeks, if the dependant cannot leave because of organisation requirements on the member.

3.

The CDF may approve payment of overseas living allowance for a longer period. The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The reason the dependant remained after the member's departure.

 

b.

The date the dependant will travel from the posting location at Commonwealth expense.

 

Example: A member is required to return to Australia at short notice for operational reasons. The spouse must remain at the posting location while their children finish school, and to supervise the removal. The member retains their accompanied rate of overseas living allowance for a period of eight weeks approved by the CDF authorised person under subclause 3.

1.

A member's period of unused leave is the recreation leave they accrued during a posting period, but were unable to take. This is only if the CDF is satisfied that they could not take the leave during that period for either of these reasons.

 

a.

On medical or compassionate grounds relating to the member or a dependant, they left the posting early, or left the ADF.

 

b.

The operational needs of the ADF prevented them from taking the leave.

2.

After the member's posting, the CDF may authorise overseas living allowance to be paid. The allowance is payable for the period of unused leave that the member takes overseas.

3.

Overseas living allowance may not be paid for leave taken in Australia after the member returns.

 

Exception: A member who is on leave in between overseas postings and travelling under clause 15.3.41 is entitled to overseas living allowance.

4.

The period of unused leave must not be longer than the amount of recreation leave that the member accrued over their last 12 months' service at the posting location.

5.

To work out the overseas living allowance payable under this clause, use the rate that the member was entitled to on the last day of their posting period.

 

1.

Regulation 68 of the Defence Force Regulations 1952 provides that a member undergoing detention under service law forfeits all allowances, other than those specifically mentioned under this Determination.

2.

This clause applies to a member who meets both these conditions.

 

a.

They are serving a period of detention under service law.

 

b.

They were entitled to overseas living allowance immediately before they began the period of detention.

3.

The member is entitled to an amount of overseas living allowance approved by the CDF. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

If the member was an accompanied member before the detention started.

 

b.

The member's dependants who continue to live in the posting location.

 

c.

The nature of costs, if any, that the member continues to incur during their period of detention.

4.

Members in detention are not entitled to any other payments under this Part.

 

 

This Part provides additional food and clothing allowances when a member is living at a posting location overseas.

1.

A member is entitled to a meal allowance for performing additional duty during any of these periods.

 

a.

0700 to 0900.

 

b.

1200 to 1400.

 

c.

1800 to 1900.

 

d.

0000 to 0100.

 

e.

A period that the CDF approves as an equivalent period at the posting location. The CDF must have regard to local meal times and the hours of duty that the member normally observes.

2.

Meal allowances are paid at the rate applicable to the posting location, worked out using this formula:

 

meal allowance for a meal period on additional duty

=

AUD $28.80 x A x

B

 

 

100

Where:

A

is the exchange rate for the member's posting location, used to calculate the member's last pay before the 1 March, within 12 months before the additional duty occurred.

Note: This exchange rate is fixed until the pay day immediately before 1 March the next year.

B

is the applied post index for the member's posting location, listed in Annex 15.2.A, effective on the last payday before 1 March, within 12 months before the additional duty occurred.

If a post index does not exist on this date, B is the first applied post index determined for the location after the member began duty there.

See: Division 1 clause 15.2.8, Post index

 

Note 1: Information for items A and B is available from the Overseas Administration Team.
See: Chapter 12 Part 2 clause 12.2.2

Note 2: The AUD figure amount in the formula is a rate advised by a contracted service provider.

3.

A member is not entitled to a meal allowance if a meal is provided, or made available at no cost to the member.

4.

Meal allowance for additional duty overseas is payable under the same basic conditions as within Australia.

See:
Chapter 4 Part 5, Meal allowances

 

A member may be directed to live in temporary accommodation at the posting location in connection with duty. If the member has to eat at the temporary accommodation, the member is entitled to be reimbursed the reasonable cost of meals.

 

A member on long-term posting in Vietnam may be paid airfreight costs for reasonable quantities of essential foods bought on a courier journey to Bangkok.

1.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed for special garments required at the posting location.

2.

The garment must be mandatory for the member and dependants to conform to a dress code imposed by religious custom or law at the member's posting location. It must not be useful for any other purpose, regardless of fashion or personal taste.

3.

The amount is what the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The nature of the clothing required to conform to the dress code.

 

b.

The nature and cost of the garment bought by the member or dependant.

4.

This clause also applies to dependants on reunion visits to the posting location.

Example: Sharia clothing that must be worn by a female dependant in an Islamic country.

 

Posting location

Applied index

Published index

AFGHANISTAN

 

0.00

[Note: no price data is available for this location.]

BELGIUM

115.1

115.1

 

BRUNEI

100.0

90.4

 

CAMBODIA

100.0

97.4

 

CANADA British Columbia

106.9

106.9

 

CANADA Ontario

103.5

103.5

 

CANADA Quebec

105.2

105.2

 

CANADA Other

103.2

103.2

 

CHINA

144.6

144.6

 

ETHIOPIA

102.0

102.0

 

FIJI

100.0

98.2

 

FRANCE Paris

118.7

118.7

 

FRANCE Other

110.3

110.3

 

GERMANY

115.6

115.6

 

INDIA

100.0

91.1

 

INDONESIA

100.0

96.7

 

IRAQ

 

0.00

[Note: no price data is available for this location.]

JAPAN

158.6

158.6

 

JORDAN

122.6

122.6

 

KIRIBATI

120.9

120.9

 

KOREA

148.2

148.2

 

KUWAIT

102.3

102.3

 

MALAYSIA

100.0

88.9

 

MARSHALL ISLANDS

135.4

135.4

 

MICRONESIA

120.6

120.6

 

MYANMAR

100.0

77.6

 

NETHERLANDS

109.0

109.0

 

NEW ZEALAND Auckland

117.8

117.8

 

NEW ZEALAND Christchurch

114.3

114.3

 

NEW ZEALAND Wellington

116.6

116.6

 

NEW ZEALAND Other

116.2

116.2

 

PAKISTAN

100.0

82.4

 

PALAU

122.2

122.2

 

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

123.6

123.6

 

PHILIPPINES

100.0

92.8

 

SAMOA

120.5

120.5

 

SAUDI ARABIA

100.0

96.2

 

SINGAPORE

140.9

140.9

 

SOLOMON ISLANDS

140.0

140.0

 


Posting location

Applied index

Published index

SPAIN Madrid

103.3

103.3

 

SPAIN Other

100.6

100.6

 

SRI LANKA

100.0

85.0

 

THAILAND

100.0

99.0

 

TIMOR-LESTE

129.2

129.2

 

TONGA

100.0

98.4

 

TURKEY

100.0

98.5

 

TUVALU

132.6

132.6

 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

110.7

110.7

 

UK London

116.6

116.6

 

UK Other

107.5

107.5

 

USA Alaska

118.0

118.0

 

USA California

122.8

122.8

 

USA Colorado

108.4

108.4

 

USA Connecticut/Rhode Island

116.1

116.1

 

USA Florida

112.8

112.8

 

USA Georgia

108.5

108.5

 

USA Guam

112.9

112.9

 

USA Hawaii

131.6

131.6

 

USA Illinois

117.3

117.3

 

USA Manhattan

138.1

138.1

 

USA Maryland/Virginia, including Washington DC

118.7

118.7

 

USA Massachusetts

112.4

112.4

 

USA Missouri

109.8

109.8

 

USA New York State, excluding Manhattan

131.2

131.2

 

USA Texas

110.0

110.0

 

USA Washington State

116.1

116.1

 

USA Other

113.7

113.7

 

VANUATU

139.4

139.4

 

VIETNAM

100.0

90.2

 

 

 

 

 

The purpose of this Part is to authorise travel entitlements during a long-term posting.

 

This Part applies to a member who is on a long-term posting overseas and is required to travel while on the posting. It also applies to the member's dependants, who need to travel in special circumstances.

Note: There may be additional travel entitlements for members at hardship posts.

See: Chapter 16 Part 4, Assisted leave travel

 

This Part includes these Divisions:

 

Division 1

Travel for short-term duty while on long-term posting

 

Division 2

Excess commuting costs

 

Division 3

Overseas reunion travel

 

Division 4

Vehicle allowances

 

Division 5

Vehicle contribution

 

Division 6

Travel for compassionate reasons

 

Division 7

Travel on extension of posting or second overseas posting

 

1.

A member may be required to travel on short-term duty overseas, while on a long-term posting. This could include travel between or within overseas countries.

 

Example: A member, posted in London, needs to travel to Brussels on duty. Similarly, another member posted in Washington, needs to travel to San Francisco.

2.

For this kind of travel, the member is regarded as on short-term duty overseas. These entitlements are outlined in Chapter 13, Short-term duty overseas.

 

Related Information: For a member travelling to Australia on short-term duty see Chapter 9 Part 5, Payment of travel costs.

1.

A member may choose to travel for duty by private vehicle. In this case, the member is entitled to vehicle allowance and payment of travel costs.

See:
Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 4, Vehicle allowance
Chapter 13 Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

2.

The entitlement must not be more than if the member had travelled by the normal means.

3.

The cost of transporting a private vehicle is the member's responsibility. The Commonwealth will not consider these costs in working out any entitlements.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to help with extra commuting costs. This is when the member is travelling to and from their home at the overseas posting location, to their place of duty.

Note: The member’s home should be located within a reasonable distance of the work location. The member is entitled to be paid only for travel by the most direct practical route.

1.

A member who uses public transport between their home and their normal place of duty is eligible for a payment.

 

Note: The payment is to reimburse for the excess costs of public transport at the overseas location. It is based on the cost of an annual adult bus fare in Canberra.

2.

The following table outlines definitions used in this clause.

 

Item

Term

Definition

1.

Administrative year

The period starting 1 March and ending on the following 28 February, or 29 February in a leap year.

2.

Member contribution amount

The amount a member is required to contribute towards their public transport costs over an administrative year.

 

2A.

The member is required to make a contribution towards their public transport costs if they claim under this Part. The following table outlines the member contribution for the specified administrative years.

 

Item

Administrative year

Member contribution amount

1.

1 March 2013 – 28 February 2014

AUD 1139.50

2.

1 March 2014 – 28 February 2015

AUD 1232.60

3.

1 March 2015 – 29 February 2016

AUD 1268.70

 

2B.

The amount a member may be reimbursed is calculated in the following table.

 

Step

Action

1.

Count the number of days the member worked in the overseas location during the administrative year. Do not count more than 215.

2.

Divide the outcome of Step 1 by 215.

 

Note: The maximum number of days in a year a member must contribute towards the cost of public transport is capped at 215 days. This represents the maximum number of days in a year for which a person must pay for public transport in Canberra.

3.

Calculate the member contribution amount by multiplying the outcome of Step 2 by the relevant administrative year contribution amount in the table of subclause 2A.

 

Note: The member contribution amount is based on the cost of a yearly adult bus fare in Canberra.


Step

Action

4.

Calculate the member's public transport costs at the location, in AUD, minus the member contribution. The member contribution is the outcome of Step 3.

5.

The member may be paid the outcome of Step 4 if it is more than zero.

 

 

Example: The member's yearly public transport cost is AUD 1450.00. The member's payment is calculated as AUD 1450.00 minus a AUD 1268.76 contribution. The member may be reimbursed AUD 181.24.

 

Note: The exchange rate used to calculate member's contribution amount is taken from the payday immediately before 1 March in that administrative year

1.

The member may use a private vehicle to drive between their home and their place of duty.

2.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed for any extra commuting costs. The amount is worked out on a daily basis. It is based on every kilometre travelled over 30 km. The daily amount for excess commuting costs is worked out in local currency using this formula.

 

 

A x B x (C – 30)

 

A

is the applicable rate of vehicle allowance on 1 March in that year.

See: Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 4, Vehicle allowances

 

B

is the exchange rate used to pay salary to members at the posting location on the payday immediately before 1 March in that year.

 

Note: Information on item B is available from the Overseas Administration Team (see Chapter 12 Part 2 clause 12.2.2).

 

C

is the daily return distance the member travels by private vehicle, in kilometres.

 

Example: A member is on posting in Shrivenham, UK. In a 2.0 litre engine vehicle, they make a 70 km daily return trip. Vehicle allowance within Australia is AUD 0.71 a km for that vehicle. The exchange rate used is 0.40. This table shows how to work out the excess commuting costs.

 

Step

Action

1.

Convert the within-Australia rate of vehicle allowance to local currency.

AUD 0.71 x 0.40 = GBP 0.28 per km.

2.

Subtract 30 km from the daily return distance the member travels.

70 – 30 = 40 km.

3.

Multiply the result of step 1 by the result of step 2.

40 km x GBP 0.28 per km = GBP 11.20 a day.

 

 

The member may travel to their normal place of duty using both public transport and private vehicle. When this happens, the amount is worked out as if the whole journey were by public transport under clause 15.3.7. The whole distance of the private vehicle component is treated as if it were a fare. This is worked out under clause 15.3.8, but without deducting the 30 km from the return distance.

Example: A member is on posting in London. Each day, they drive a 30 km return journey to the Underground station, then travel by tube to work using a five-zone monthly season ticket. Vehicle and other details are as set out in the table in clause 15.3.8. This table shows how to work out the excess commuting costs.

(The figures in the example just show the calculations. They are not current amounts.)

 

Step

Action

1.

Work out the amount for the vehicle portion of the journey using the table in clause 15.3.8. Do not subtract the 30 km in step 3 of the table in clause 15.3.8.

30 km x GBP 0.38 a km = GBP 11.40 a day.

2.

Convert the daily amount in step 1 to a monthly amount, based on 20 working days a month.

GBP 11.40 a day x 20 = GBP 228.00 a month for the vehicle portion of the journey.

3.

Find out the Underground fare.

A five-zone monthly season ticket costs GBP 134.80 a month.

4.

Add the amount in step 2 to the amount in step 3.

GBP 228.00 a month + GBP 134.80 a month = GBP 362.80 a month

5.

Work out the amount for fares under the formula in subclause 15.3.7.2.

Convert that to a monthly rate by dividing by the number of months in the period.

The monthly amount for fares = GBP 48.24

6.

Subtract the amount in step 5 from the amount in step 4.

GBP 362.80 a month - GBP 48.24 a month = GBP 314.56 a month.

1.

The purpose of this Division is to reimburse members for the costs associated with reunion travel, for the member and their dependants.

2.

Reunion travel helps reunite the member with their dependants who do not live with them overseas. It recognises the need to maintain family bonds, and adds to the personal wellbeing of the member and their dependants.

 

This Division applies to members who have dependants living away from the overseas posting location.

1.

The CDF may authorise up to four reunion visits a year by a dependant who does not live at the member’s posting location.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The relationship of the dependant to the member or the member's spouse or interdependent partner.

 

b.

The age and welfare of the dependant.

 

c.

The cost and duration of travel to the member's posting location.

 

d.

Any other opportunities that the member or the spouse or interdependent partner may have to reunite with the dependant.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the reunion visit.

 

Example 1: A member has a dependant who is under 18 years old, is attending primary or secondary education full-time with education assistance in Australia, and has all people with parental responsibility at the posting location. The member may be granted more than one reunion visit a year, to allow the child to spend school holidays with their parents.

If a child attends a school with a four-term school year, a fourth reunion visit may be granted.

 

Example 2: A member might have only one entitlement a year for a dependant when there is no reason for additional reunion visits. This might occur with adult dependants who have completed their education, or when a parent remains in Australia and is available to provide emotional support, guidance and counselling.

 

 

Reunion visits are not normally authorised within three months of the start or end of a posting.

Exception: The CDF may approve a reunion visit during these times. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

If other relatives in Australia can provide short-term housing for the dependant.

 

b.

If care can be arranged for the dependant.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the dependant's welfare.

1.

There is a maximum amount for reunion visit reimbursements. It is the lowest of these amounts.

 

a.

The cost incurred by the member for the return travel by a dependant.

Exception: This cost excludes any cost that the member is responsible to pay for an adult escort that a carrier requires for the member's child.

 

b.

The allowable travel cost for the travel.

 

c.

The allowable travel cost for return travel from where the dependant normally lives to the posting location and return.

2.

A member may be away from their posting location for a short time. When this happens, the dependant is authorised to visit the member at the other location. The amount for paragraph 1.c is the return travel cost to the posting location.

Exception: If the travel is to a designated leave centre and the cost is greater than to the posting location, the amount for paragraph 1.c is the return travel cost to the leave centre.

3.

The member must pay any extra costs, when the value of a ticket is greater than the allowable travel cost.

4.

The CDF may authorise the member to be provided with a ticket for transport, instead of reimbursement.

1.

A person may be paid costs under subclause 2 if all the following conditions are met.

 

a.

A dependant meets all the following requirements.

 

i.

They are under 15 years old.

 

ii.

They are to have a reunion visit that includes a domestic flight in the USA or Canada.

 

iii.

They would not otherwise be travelling with another person who is 18 years old or older.

 

b.

The domestic flight described in subparagraph a.ii is on a carrier that does not let passengers under 15 years old travel unaccompanied.

 

c.

The person is either a member, or a member's family member.


2.

A person described in subclause 1 may be paid allowable travel costs if they escort a dependant on domestic flights in the USA or Canada.

 

Example: A member's 14 year old dependant is to have a reunion visit to Washington. The dependant is using an airline that will not allow 14 year olds to travel unaccompanied. The member's adult child lives in the USA and escorts the dependant from Los Angeles to Washington. The member's adult child may be paid allowable travel costs.

3.

A person may escort more than one dependant at one time.

4.

Accommodation and meal costs will not be paid under this clause.

1.

This clause applies to a member for whom the CDF has approved a reunion visit by a dependant under clause 15.3.13.

2.

The member may apply in writing to the Overseas Administration Team to be reimbursed for travel by the member or spouse to visit their dependant, instead of taking the entitlement to a reunion visit under clause 15.3.13.

Note: This visit to the dependant is sometimes called 'reverse reunion' travel.

3.

Each time that the member is reimbursed under this clause, the total number of reunion visits that the member may be reimbursed for under clause 15.3.13 is reduced by one for each dependant who is visited at the reverse reunion location.

Example: A member or spouse or interdependent partner travels on a reverse overseas reunion visit to Sydney and reunites with their two children. This reduces the family's reunion entitlement by one visit for each child.

4.

The maximum amount that a member can be reimbursed for a reverse reunion visit under this clause is the allowable travel cost for the member or spouse or interdependent partner, travelling by the most direct route from the member's posting location to where the dependant normally lives and return.

 

Example: The member or spouse or interdependent partner travels from Los Angeles to Sydney for a reverse overseas reunion visit to two children. The allowable travel cost for the return trip by that person would have been AUD 3,600. This amount is the cost limit repayable for the reverse reunion travel. If the person gets a special deal AUD 2,000 ticket, then they only get reimbursed the cost of that ticket.

1.

Travel may be approved for a dependant, living at the posting location with the member, to reunite with other people. The other people do not have to be dependants of the member. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied the dependant should be reunited with the other people at Commonwealth expense.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The relationship of the people.

 

b.

The degree to which the relationship has been maintained before and during the member's longterm posting.

 

c.

The extent of financial or other dependency of the people.

 

d.

The circumstances relating to the dependant's removal to the posting location.


 

e.

Any other opportunities that the people may have to be reunited.

 

f.

The age and welfare of the people.

 

g.

The circumstances relating to the travel.

 

h.

The cost, timing and duration of the travel.

 

i.

Any other factor relevant to reimbursement for the travel by the dependant.

3.

The allowable travel cost is worked out as if the travel was for a normal reunion visit. The visit is treated as being from the member's posting location, to the location where the member lived before the long-term posting.

 

 

The purpose of vehicle allowance is to help the member pay for vehicle costs in certain cases.

 

This Division applies to a member who is authorised to travel by private vehicle.

 

This Division does not apply to any of these members.

 

a.

A member on short-term duty, authorised to travel by motor vehicle instead of the entitled type of transport.

 

b.

A member wanting to transport their private vehicle to or from a posting location.

 

See also:
Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to
Part 1 clause 15.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to

1.

The member is entitled to vehicle allowance, if the CDF approves their use of a private vehicle for official purposes. The vehicle may be owned, hired or borrowed by the member.

2.

Travel between the member's home and normal place of duty is not to be included in any journey authorised under this clause.

3.

When considering whether to authorise use of a private vehicle, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The purpose of the travel.

 

b.

If the use of the vehicle will result in greater efficiency than use of public transport.

Examples: Public transport unreasonably extends the member's time away from home, or is difficult for a member with a disability.

 

c.

If Commonwealth transport is available for the journey.

 

d.

If there is any requirement for a Commonwealth driver to remain on duty outside normal hours.

 

e.

If the member has provided evidence of adequate insurance cover.

 

f.

Any cost saving to the Commonwealth.

 

g.

The personal interests of the member.


4.

The member is entitled to an amount for each kilometre of the journey. The amount is worked out using this formula.

A x B x    

C

 

100

 

A

is the relevant rate of vehicle allowance effective on 1 March in any year as mentioned in Chapter 9 Part 6 Division 5 clause 9.6.24.

 

B

is the exchange rate used to pay salary to members at the posting location on the payday immediately before 1 March in that year.

 

C

is the post index in force on the payday immediately before 1 March in that year. If a post index does not exist for the location on this date, C is the post index for the location at the date the member begins duty there.

 

Note: Information on items B and C is available from the Overseas Administration Team (see Chapter 12 Part 2 clause 12.2.2).

5.

The kilometres travelled are taken to be the distance of the journey, using the shortest direct route on suitable roads.

6.

The combined upper limit of the vehicle allowance and travel costs for the road trip is the total of these amounts.

 

a.

The cost of the member's fares by the means of transport normally authorised by the CDF for the journey.

 

b.

The amount of travel costs payable if the journey was by that means of transport.

7.

A member entitled to vehicle allowance may also be reimbursed these costs.

 

a.

Ferries.

 

b.

Tolls.

 

c.

Garage accommodation.

1.

This clause applies to a member who meets all these conditions.

 

a.

The member is on long-term posting in the USA.

 

b.

The member owns a motor vehicle.

 

c.

The member has paid personal property tax on the vehicle to the Government of the State in which the member lives.

2.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed an amount equal to the tax on one motor vehicle only.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to authorise member contributions for the use of an official vehicle at a posting location.

 

This table defines terms used in this Division.

 

Term

Description

Official vehicle

An official vehicle means any of these vehicles.

  • A motor vehicle provided to a member at Commonwealth expense.
  • A vehicle controlled by any of these organisations.

-       a. An Australian diplomatic mission.

-          b. The ADF.

-          c. A Commonwealth department or entity represented at the posting location.

  •     A pool vehicle made available to Commonwealth personnel at the posting location for casual private use during normal working hours and weekends.

Private use

Private use means using an official vehicle for non-work related purposes. This includes travel to and from the member's private residence to the normal place of duty.

1.

If the CDF allows a member to hire an official vehicle, the member must pay an amount worked out under Division 4 clause 15.3.21. The member must pay for each kilometre the vehicle travelled, during the hire period.

2.

If an official vehicle is hired by the member and supplied with a driver, the member must pay the Commonwealth the cost of overtime or extra salary paid to the driver.

3.

Subclause 2 does not apply to the member if the CDF believes it is essential for the member or dependant to be given a car with a driver. Approval may only be given under either of these conditions.

 

a.

The member or a dependant is not authorised to drive at the posting location because of religious custom or law.

 

b.

The CDF believes such driving would be an unacceptable risk to the safety of the member or dependant.

4.

...

 

1.

The CDF may allocate an official vehicle for continuous full-time private use, for a set period of time.

2.

The member must pay to the Commonwealth an amount worked out using this formula.

 

A x 8000 x

B

 

365

 

A is the rate of allowance payable under Division 4 subclause 15.3.21.4.

B is the number of days in the period for which the vehicle was allocated.

3.

The contribution is deducted from salary each fortnight.

1.

The Commonwealth will meet these miscellaneous vehicle costs.

 

a.

Registration.

 

b.

Maintenance.

 

c.

Servicing.

 

d.

Fuel costs.

2.

The member is required to pay for fuel and extra servicing cost, when both these conditions are met.

 

a.

The vehicle is being used for private purposes.

 

b.

The member is on recreation leave.

3.

Rules on garaging and authorised travel between home and work using an official vehicle are similar to those that apply within Australia.

See: Chapter 7.2 Chief Executive's Instructions, Home garaging

1.

This clause applies when a member has been supplied a second vehicle under the Defence Executive Vehicle Scheme.

2.

To be supplied with a vehicle under this Scheme, the member must meet both these conditions.

 

a.

They must hold the rank of Brigadier or higher.

 

b.

They must pay a contribution for the second vehicle, depending on whether the vehicle is being used on a casual or full-time basis.

1.

The CDF may waive the requirement to make a contribution for the use of an official vehicle.

2.

The CDF must consider the Accountable Authority Instructions made under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 when making this decision.

 

 

Travel for compassionate reasons helps a member, their spouse or interdependent partner, or close relative with the costs of travel in the event of very serious illness, or death.

 

This table defines terms used in this Division.

 

Term

Definition in this Division

Close relative

Any of the following people who are not accompanying the member on the long-term posting.

a.

The member’s parent, brother, sister, child, dependant or spouse.

b.

The parent or child of the member's spouse.

c.

The parent or child of the member's interdependent partner.

d.

If the member's spouse or interdependent partner is also a member, a dependant of the member's spouse or interdependent partner.

e.

Any other person approved by the CDF as a close relative of any of these people.

i. The member.

ii. The member's spouse.

iii. The member's interdependent partner.

Very seriously ill

Very serious illness is an illness or injury so severe that life is imminently endangered.

Seriously ill

Serious illness is an illness or injury that could endanger life.

 

This Division may provide a travel benefit to allow visits to or by the following people.

 

a.

A member who is on long-term posting overseas.

 

b.

A member's spouse or interdependent partner who is accompanying the member on a long-term posting.

1.

This clause applies if a doctor certifies that the member's spouse or partner is seriously ill at an overseas location.

2.

The CDF may reimburse a close relative to travel to visit the seriously ill person, up to the lower of the following amounts.

 

a.

The allowable travel cost for the travel from the close relative's home to the location of the seriously ill person.

 

b.

The actual fares paid by the close relative for the travel.


3.

Only one close relative may be reimbursed under this clause.

4.

If more than one close relative travels from Australia to visit the seriously ill person, then the CDF may decide which one of the relatives to reimburse under this clause, having regard to the following factors.

 

a.

Any views communicated to CDF by, or on behalf of, the member's spouse, the member's partner or the member.

 

b.

Any views communicated to CDF by the ill person's personal legal representative.

 

c.

The seriously ill person's domestic circumstances.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the visit.

 

See also: Chapter 17 Part 3A, Australians dangerously ill scheme – overseas, for provisions relating to members overseas who become very seriously or seriously ill or injured.

1.

This clause applies in the event of the death of any of the following people in the corresponding circumstances.

 

a.

A member on long-term posting overseas.

 

b.

A spouse accompanying a member on long-term posting overseas.

 

c.

An interdependent partner accompanying a member on long-term posting overseas.

2.

The CDF may reimburse a close relative to travel to attend the deceased person's funeral or make necessary arrangements because of the death, up to the lower of the following amounts.

 

a.

The allowable travel cost for the travel from the close relative's home to the location of the deceased person.

 

b.

The actual fares paid by the close relative for the travel.

1.

This clause applies to a member and the member's spouse or interdependent partner, if any of the following circumstances apply to a close relative.

 

a.

A doctor certifies that the close relative is very seriously ill.

 

b.

The close relative dies.

2.

The CDF may reimburse the cost of travel by either the member or the member's spouse or interdependent partner to whichever of these locations is relevant.

 

a.

The location of the very seriously ill close relative.

 

b.

The location of the close relative's funeral.

3.

For travel to a location in Australia, reimbursement under subclause 2 is limited to the lower of the following amounts.

 

a.

The allowable travel cost for the travel from the posting location to the location of the close relative.

 

b.

The fares paid by the member or spouse or interdependent partner for the travel.


4.

For travel to a location outside Australia, reimbursement under subclause 2 is limited to the amount (if any) by which the cost of the fare for the travel exceeds the allowable travel cost for travel from Sydney, Australia, to the location of the close relative.

 

Example 1: A member is posted from a location in New South Wales to a location in the United Kingdom. They need to visit a close relative who is critically ill in New York. The return travel from the UK to New York is AUD 2,500. The member is required to pay a contribution, equivalent to the allowable return travel cost from Sydney to New York. This is AUD 5,900. In this case, as the contribution is more than the level of assistance, there is no entitlement.

Example 2: A member is posted from Western Australia to Malaysia. They need to visit a dangerously ill close relative in Wellington, New Zealand. The return travel from Malaysia to Wellington return costs AUD 3,400. The member is required to pay a contribution equal to the allowable travel cost from Sydney to Wellington, which is AUD 2,200. In this case, as the assistance is AUD 3,400 and the contribution is AUD 2,200 the member is entitled to be reimbursed AUD 1,200.

5.

Reimbursement under this clause is limited to one visit for each close relative that subclause 1 applies to.

6.

If subclause 1 applies to more than one close relative at the same time, due to a single event, then reimbursement is limited to a single trip for that event.

 

The CDF may approve reimbursement of the cost of fares for a child if the following conditions are met.

 

a.

A person is entitled to be reimbursed for fares under this Division.

 

b.

The person is responsible for the daily care of a child.

 

c.

The CDF is satisfied that it is impracticable to make other appropriate arrangements for the care of the child. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

i.

The child's age.

 

ii.

Any arrangements the person could make for the care of the child in the circumstances.

 

iii.

The circumstances of the person travelling.

 

The purpose of this Division is for a member to have extended family contact and make private business arrangements, on extension of a posting or on a posting to a second overseas location.

1.

If a member's posting to an overseas location is extended by 12 months or more, the member is entitled to the lower of the following costs.

 

a.

Return air travel from the posting location to the location where the member normally lives in Australia.

 

b.

The allowable travel cost for the travel.

2.

If the member would otherwise have been on assisted leave travel from a hardship post, and that entitlement would have included payment for excess baggage, the member is entitled to an excess baggage entitlement of 12 kg. This is for the return flight to the posting location.

3.

The member may want to travel to another location within Australia, other than where they normally live. The member is entitled to do this. However, the Commonwealth will only pay up to a maximum of the allowable travel cost. The Commonwealth will not pay any extra costs that may be charged as a result of the change in destination.

4.

If dependants live at the posting location and accompany the member to and from Australia, the member may be reimbursed for their travel under this clause, up to the allowable travel cost.

5.

These conditions apply to this entitlement.

 

a.

Time limits apply to the travel.

 

i.

It may not be taken before the start of the extended posting period.

 

ii.

It may not be taken within three months of the end of the extended posting period.

 

 

Exception: The senior ADF representative at the overseas post and the Director of Attaché and Overseas Management may determine that a member may travel before their extended posting starts. They must consider the following criteria.

 

i.

The reason the member needs to travel.

 

ii.

The member's and dependant's welfare.

 

iii.

Financial implications of the earlier travel.

 

b.

The member must take recreation leave for the absence.

 

c.

The member cannot travel to another overseas location.


6.

The member and dependants are not entitled to either of these benefits during travel under this clause.

 

a.

Rest periods.

 

b.

Accommodation or meal costs.

 

Note: This travel replaces an assisted leave travel visit to a regional leave centre under Chapter 16 Part 4, Assisted leave travel. See subclause 16.4.7.1A, Number of trips.

 

A member may be serving overseas on an unaccompanied long-term posting or short-term duty. In some cases, the period of duty may be extended. As a result, the member may become entitled to be an accompanied member on long-term posting. In this case, the member is entitled to one of these payments.

 

a.

If the dependant has not yet travelled to the posting location, payment of the travel costs of the dependant to the overseas posting location.

See: Chapter 14 Part 4 Division 4, Dependants not travelling with the member

 

b.

If the dependant has already travelled to the posting location at personal cost, the lowest of these entitlements applies.

 

i.

Reimbursement of fares, conveyance and baggage to the posting location.

 

ii.

The cost that would have been paid if the dependant had travelled on the day the member was approved to be accompanied at the posting location.

 

a.

From the old posting location to the location where the member normally lives in Australia.

 

b.

From the location where the member normally lives in Australia to the new overseas posting location.

3.

If dependants live at the posting location and accompany the member to Australia and to the new posting location, the member may be reimbursed for cost of the dependants' travel under this clause.

4.

The following conditions apply to this entitlement.

 

a.

Travel must be taken during the following time period.

 

i.

After departure from the first overseas location at the end of the posting.

 

ii.

Before arrival at the second overseas posting location.


 

b.

The second overseas posting must be for at least 12 months.

 

c.

The member must take recreation leave for the absence.

 

d.

The member must travel to the location where the member normally lives in Australia.

5.

Rest periods under Chapter 14 Part 4 Division 3 only apply for travel from Australia to the new posting location.

See: Chapter 14 Part 4 Division 3, Rest periods

6.

Excess baggage charges may be paid under clause 14.4.10.

See: Chapter 14 Part 4 Division 2 clause 14.4.10, Excess baggage

7.

Accommodation or meal costs are not payable for travel under this clause.

8.

A member who is on leave in Australia between overseas postings is eligible to receive overseas living allowance for unused leave accrued at the old posting location.

See: Part 2 Division 6 clause 15.2.34, Payment of overseas living allowance for unused leave

9.

The member may travel to another location within Australia, other than where they normally live. The Commonwealth will not pay any extra costs that may be charged as a result of the change in destination.

 

 

This Part sets out housing and utilities entitlements for a member on a long-term overseas posting.

 

This Part applies to a member who is entitled to receive overseas living allowance and who lives out.

1.

This Part does not apply to a member while they meet either of these conditions.

 

a.

Both of the following circumstances apply to the member.

 

i.

The member is able to live in their own or their dependant’s home at the posting location.

 

ii.

The CDF is satisfied that the home is of a suitable standard for the member's rank and duties at the location. 

 

 

Exception: This exclusion does not apply to a member who lives in. The member may still be eligible for assistance under Division 4 clause 15.4.19.

See also:

Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to

Part 1 clause 15.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to

 

b.

The member's accommodation is paid for by a body other than the Commonwealth, as represented by the Department of Defence.

Example: A member is posted to an international committee. The committee provides a housing allowance to all members. The member uses the housing allowance to pay for their housing and has no entitlement under this Part.

2.

A member described in paragraph 1.a is not eligible for Commonwealth assistance for rent or utilities. They are not required to make contributions under this Part.

 

This Part includes these Divisions and Annexes:

 

Division 1

Housing

 

Division 2

Utilities

 

Division 3

Rent groups

 

Division 4

Rent and utilities contribution

 

Division 5

Reductions to rent and utilities contributions

 

Division 6

Household help

 

Annex 15.4.A

Rent group overseas

 

Annex 15.4.B

Rent and utilities contribution

 

 

This clause is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of procedures for resolving disputes about overseas housing matters.

 

This Division sets out the aim of housing assistance and general housing entitlements for a member on a long-term posting overseas. The aim is to ensure the member and their dependants are provided with housing that meets all these conditions.

 

a.

Adequately furnished, based on the needs of the member's dependants.

 

b.

Located within a reasonable distance of the place of duty.

 

c.

Appropriate for the status and duties of the member.

 

d.

Suitable in size based on the composition of the member's family.

 

e.

Suitable for the conditions at the member's posting location.

1.

A member may live in accommodation provided or arranged by the member or the Commonwealth.

2.

There are exceptions to this, explained in table below.

 

Item

Category

Applies to...

1.

Tied housing – rank and role

a senior member whose posting comes with a house provided by the Commonwealth.

Examples: A member posted as Head Australian Defence Staff in Washington DC, London or Jakarta.

2.

Housing – safety and security

a member appointed to a hardship posting. The member will be provided with housing that ensures the safety of the member and any dependants.

Example: A member posted to Port Moresby.

3.

Housing – exchange programs

exchange personnel who are required to occupy housing provided by the host Service.

Example: A member posted overseas to undertake language training with the Royal Air Force.

 

3.

If a member does not fall into one of the categories mentioned in subclause 2, the member may be authorised to seek privately leased housing that the CDF considers suitable. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The member's posting location.

 

b.

The standard of housing at the posting location.

 

c.

The location of the housing.

 

d.

If the standard and the location of the house are appropriate to the member's rank and family needs.

4.

The member is entitled to be paid for the rent of the privately leased house. The amount paid is to a maximum of the amount of rent, less a rent and utilities contribution.

See: Chapter 15 Division 4, Rent and utilities contribution

1.

This clause applies to members posted to the USA, Canada or the UK, to assist with the cost of privately leased housing.

2.

In this clause a decision maker means one of the following.

 

a.

Head Australian Defence Staff (Washington).

 

b.

Head Australian Defence Staff (London).

 

c.

First Assistant Secretary International Policy.

3.

A decision maker may approve the payment of a rental bond advance to a member for privately leased housing.

4.

The member must repay the rental bond advance as a lump sum payment when both of the following events occur.

 

a.

The member's overseas posting ends.

 

b.

The member receives their rental bond back from the landlord.

5.

If the member does not receive the full rental bond back from the landlord, the member must still repay the full amount of the advance.

Note: This means that the member must repay the Commonwealth any difference between the amount advanced and the amount the landlord has returned to the member.

 

Example: The member received a rental bond of US 2,000 which was paid to the landlord at the beginning of the lease. When the member leaves the residence the landlord claims there was US 500 of damage to the property. The member receives US 1,500 back from the landlord. The member must pay the remaining US 500.

6.

After the member has made a repayment under subclause 5, if the member disputes alleged damage to the property, clause 15.4.9 may apply.

See: Clause 15.4.9, Dispute about damage to property

1.

The Commonwealth is not a party to a private lease that the member enters into.

Exception: The Commonwealth may become a party to the lease by agreement in writing.

2.

A member may be required under their lease to pay property taxes or make other council payments.

3.

The member is entitled to be paid an amount equal to these costs.

 

1.

Property leased by a member to live in at the post may be alleged to have been damaged. If this happens, a dispute may arise between the member and their landlord over the terms of the lease or return of the rental bond.

2.

The CDF may pay the member an amount equal to the amount the member can show they had to pay for damage alleged to have been done to the property by them. The member must meet these conditions.

 

a.

The member did not breach the terms of the lease.

 

b.

The member did not cause damage to the property by their wrongful or negligent act.

Example: The member reported a faulty water heater but the landlord took no steps to fix it. The water heater flooded the home and damaged the carpet. The member had taken steps to prevent the damage and did not cause it.

Non-example: If the member failed to take steps to prevent their child from kicking holes in walls, then the member's negligence could be seen to have caused the damage.

 

c.

The member cannot get their bond or rent returned, or has been forced to pay an extra amount to fix the alleged damage.

 

A member may have to move from one residence to another at the posting location for organisational requirements. In this situation, the member is entitled to have items removed to the other residence at Commonwealth expense.

1.

During an overseas posting, a member's accommodation may become unavailable or unfit for occupation. The member and dependants may need to live in temporary accommodation, such as a motel or serviced apartments.

2.

In this case, the member is entitled to the settling-in allowances listed in Chapter 14 Part 5, Settling in and out. They apply as if the member began a posting period at the location, on the day the accommodation becomes unavailable or unfit.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to help a member on a long-term posting with the cost of utilities.

 

This Division does not apply to a member who is not required to pay a rent and utilities contribution.

See: Division 4 Rent and utilities contribution.

See also:
Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to
Part 1 clause 15.1.3, Member this Chapter does not apply to
Part 4 clause 15.4.3, Member this Part does not apply to

1.

Utilities means all these services.

 

a.

Water.

 

b.

Gas and electricity.

 

c.

Other fuel for ordinary household purposes.

 

d.

Garbage.

 

e.

Sewerage.

2.

Paragraph 1.a includes special arrangements for provision of drinking water. This is when the CDF has decided the water at the member’s residence is not fit for consumption. The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The standards for Australian drinking water quality, established by the National Health and Medical Research Council.

 

b.

The quality of the water ordinarily available at the member’s residence.

1.

If a member on long-term posting pays for these utilities, the member is entitled to be reimbursed the cost.

2.

If the member fails to exercise care and economy, the member must pay an amount that the CDF considers reasonable for additional utilities costs. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The make up of the member's family.

 

b.

The condition and nature of the residence occupied by the member.

 

c.

The climatic conditions at the posting location.

 

d.

The level of use of utilities by the member.


 

e.

Any special circumstance affecting the member that may cause a high level of use of utilities.

3.

A member is not entitled to be reimbursed for swimming pool heating.

 

 

For an ADF member, rent group means the member’s rent group in column 1 of Annex 15.4.A opposite the member’s rank and (if applicable) pay grade and circumstances in column 2.

 

 

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to provide for the contributions that a member is required to pay when occupying a house at an overseas posting.

1.

A member must pay a rent and utilities contribution to the Commonwealth when the member is receiving these entitlements.

 

a.

Rent.

See: Division 1, Housing.

 

b.

Utilities.

See: Division 2.

2.

The amount of contribution is worked out at the rate specified in Annex 15.4.B, as follows.

 

a.

For an unaccompanied member, use column 4 of Part 1, opposite the member's rent group in column 1.

 

b.

For an accompanied member, use column 4 of Part 2, opposite the member's rent group in column 1.

3.

The contribution amount is deducted from a member's fortnightly salary.

See: Annex 15.4.B, Rent and utilities contribution

4.

If the member's posting location has a hardship post grade, the member's contribution is reduced by AUD 10 a week.

 

Dual liability means both a member and their spouse or interdependent partner would be required to pay a rent and utilities contribution under this Part. The Commonwealth only requires the rent and utilities contribution from the member who gets full overseas living allowance.

See: Part 2 Division 2 clause 15.2.13, Dual entitlement.

 

These conditions apply to a member who lives in.

 

a.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed any costs that the member incurs for living-in accommodation.

 

b.

The member must pay a contribution to the Commonwealth for rent and utilities. The amount is the weekly rate in column 3 of this table for the member's rank in column 2.

 

Item

Description of member

Contribution AUD a week

1.

Corporal or lower

10.00

2.

Sergeant or higher non-commissioned rank

20.00

3.

Warrant Officer

20.00

4.

Officer

30.00

1.

A rent and utilities contribution is not payable following the death of a member.

See: Chapter 15 Part 8, Death overseas of member or dependant.

2.

The member is not required to pay a rent and utilities contribution if all these conditions are met.

 

a.

The member's spouse or interdependent partner normally lives with the member.

 

b.

The member is required to be unaccompanied at the post.

 

c.

The requirement is due to hardship, safety or the length of the long-term posting.

Examples: The spouse or interdependent partner might not be allowed to accompany the member for any of these reasons.

The posting period is less than 12 months.

The posting location is deemed unsafe for dependants.

3.

Sometimes, a member's spouse or interdependent partner may be absent from the member's posting location. When this happens, the CDF may waive the rent and utilities contribution for a period. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that the absence is for a maximum period of time and reason shown in this table.

 

Item

Period of absence

Reason for absence

1.

13 weeks

The member's spouse or interdependent partner has delayed their departure to allow the member's child to finish a school term or year at the school that the child attended immediately before the posting.

2.

9 weeks

Any of these reasons.

a. The member's spouse or interdependent partner has made an early departure to allow the member's child to begin school at a new location at the beginning of a school year or term.

b. The member's spouse or interdependent partner is eligible to be reimbursed the fares for the travel for any of these purposes.

 i. Visiting another location for compassionate reasons.

  See: Part 3 Division 6, Travel for compassionate reasons

 ii. Obtaining medical treatment at another location.

  See: Part 5 Division 3 clause 15.5.15, Travel to another location for health care

 iii. Escorting the member or dependant requiring medical treatment at another location.

  See: Part 5 Division 3 clause 15.5.16, Provision of escort

 iv. Supervising the enrolment of the member's child at a boarding school in Australia.

  See: Part 6 Division 4, Education costs for children

 

The purpose of this Division is to provide a member with a reduction in their rent and utilities contributions in some situations.

1.

In some cases, a member on a long-term posting may need to establish and maintain a household in Australia. If this is to accommodate a dependant, then the member is entitled to a reduction in their rent contribution.

2.

The CDF decides the amount of the reduction in rent. It can be up to the whole of the member's rent contribution specified in column 2 of Annex 15.4.B, Rent and utilities contribution.

3.

The member does not have to pay a utilities contribution.

4.

For a member to receive a reduction in their rent contribution, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The costs incurred by the member.

 

b.

The reason the member established the household.

 

c.

The location where the dependant lives before and after the beginning of the member's posting.

 

d.

The age and welfare of the dependant.

 

e.

The financial circumstances of the member and the dependant.

 

f.

Any other factor relevant to the establishment and maintenance of a household.

5.

The member is not entitled to a reduction of rent contribution for a child, for a period when they are also entitled to assistance with boarding school costs for the child.

1.

This clause applies to a member who lives in substandard housing. This clause does not apply to housing rented privately.

2.

If the member is required to make a payment for living in this type of housing, then this payment is taken to be a rent and utilities contribution made to the Commonwealth.

3.

The CDF may reduce in whole or in part the rent and utilities contribution that the member is liable to pay for a residence at a particular location. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The size, configuration, condition and surroundings of the residence.

 

b.

The nature and quality of the utilities supplied to the residence.

 

c.

If the hardship allowance grading for the long-term posting location takes into account the deficiencies in the housing.

4.

Reductions of this nature are a short-term solution. If possible, the member should find more suitable accommodation on the local rental market.

1.

A short-term hardship may be one of these situations.

 

a.

War.

 

b.

Natural disaster.

 

c.

Civil disorder.

 

d.

Another similar event.

2.

At times of short-term hardships, the Commonwealth may be unable to provide a member with housing and utilities of the quality normally available. The CDF may reduce the rent and utilities contribution. This may be up to the full rent and utilities contribution payable by the member.

3.

The amount of the reduction must be equal to the reduction in the quality of the housing and utilities caused by the short-term hardship. When making a decision, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The quality of accommodation and utilities normally available to the members at the location.

 

b.

The nature and extent of any deficiency in the housing and utilities made available to the member.

 

c.

The extent to which the deficiencies arise from the event and the expected timing of repairs to remedy the deficiencies.

 

The purpose of this Division is to provide financial assistance for the costs of household help.

1.

A member may decide to employ a person to help them with household tasks including, but not limited to, activities like yard and property maintenance, domestic help and child minding.

Note: This must be done within the constraints of the posts, for example, security regulations and maintenance contracts.

2.

The CDF may reimburse the cost of employing a person to provide household help, up to any reasonable limit set by the post administrator for that category of help, if satisfied that all of these conditions are met.

 

a.

The help is required as a direct result of the member’s official duties.

Example: A member is required to attend a ceremony such as local Australia Day celebrations with their spouse or partner, in order to provide an ADF presence. The presence of the couple has been agreed by Head Australian Defence Staff. The member has a young child who will not be attending the event. In this case, the cost of child minding may be reimbursed to the member.

 

b.

The help enables the member to perform their official duties more effectively and efficiently.

 

c.

The cost of the help is reasonable having regard to the following criteria.

 

i.

The costs normally paid for this help at the posting location.

 

ii.

The general living conditions at the long-term posting location.

 

iii.

The number and age of the member’s dependants.

 

iv.

Local social and religious customs or laws.

 

v.

Any special features of a residence that the Commonwealth provides the member.

 

d.

The help is not for a task that is required due to normal use and wear on the home.

Example: Carpet cleaning required under a lease.

3.

If the member is already receiving an allowance that includes an amount for payment of a cost that could otherwise be reimbursed under this clause, then they must not be reimbursed for that cost under this clause.

 

Example: A member is invited to attend a function with their spouse or partner. The event is not one where the member will be taking an official role. In this instance, the child allowance component of the member’s overseas living allowance covers the cost of child minding.

See: Clause 15.2.18, Child allowance.

4.

A member who incurs costs when carrying out representational duties is not eligible to be reimbursed under this clause.

See: Defence Instruction (General) Administrative 23-6, Overseas representational funds.

1.

The CDF may approve a member to be reimbursed the cost of using commercial snow clearing services. The member must occupy a free-standing residence.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The amount of snowfall at the member’s posting location.

 

b.

The period of the year that snow persists on the ground at the location.

 

c.

Any legal obligation for the member to clear snow from footpaths and other public thoroughfares adjacent to the member’s residence.

 

d.

The general community practice on snow clearing at the location.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to snow clearing at the location.

3.

If approved, the member is entitled to be reimbursed the costs they paid for those services.

 

Column 1

Rent group

Column 2

Rank and, if applicable, pay grade or circumstances

 

Navy

Army

Air Force

1

Seaman (pay grade 1)

Able Seaman (pay grade 1)

Private (pay grade 1)

Lance Corporal (pay grade 1)

Aircraftman (pay grade 1)

Leading Aircraftman (pay grade 1)

2

Seaman (pay grade 2, 3 or 4)

Able Seaman (pay grade 2 or 3)

Leading Seaman (pay grade 1 or 2)

Private (pay grade 2, 3
or 4)

Lance Corporal (pay grade 2 or 3)

Corporal (pay grade 1 or 2)

Aircraftman (pay grade 2, 3 or 4)

Leading Aircraftman (pay grade 2 or 3)

Corporal (pay grade 1 or 2)

3

Seaman (pay grade 5, 6 or 7)

Able Seaman (pay grade 4, 5, 6 or 7)

Leading Seaman (pay grade 3 or 4)

Acting Sub Lieutenant

Private (pay grade 5, 6 or 7)

Lance Corporal (pay grade 4, 5, 6 or 7)

Corporal (pay grade 3 or 4)

Second Lieutenant

Aircraftman (pay grade 5, 6 or 7)

Leading Aircraftman (pay grade 4, 5, 6 or 7)

Corporal (pay grade 3 or 4)

Pilot Officer

4

Leading Seaman (pay grade 5, 6 or 7)

Petty Officer (pay grade 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5)

Corporal (pay grade 5, 6 or 7)

Sergeant (pay grade 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5)

Corporal (pay grade 5, 6 or 7)

Sergeant (pay grade 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5)

5

Petty Officer (pay grade 6 or 7)

Officer performing year of compulsory residency (from undergraduate scheme)

Acting Sub Lieutenant (who is paid salary under Schedule B.4 to DFRT Determination No. 15 of 2008, Salaries)

Sub Lieutenant

Sergeant (pay grade 6 or 7)

Staff Sergeant

Officer performing year of compulsory residency (from undergraduate scheme) Second Lieutenant (who is paid salary under Schedule B.4 to DFRT Determination No. 15 of 2008, Salaries)

Lieutenant

Sergeant (pay grade 6 or 7)

Officer performing year of compulsory residency (from undergraduate scheme)

Pilot Officer (who is paid salary under Schedule B.4 of DFRT Determination No. 15 of 2008, Salaries)

Flying Officer

6

Chief Petty Officer

Sub Lieutenant (who is paid salary under Schedule B.4 to DFRT Determination No. 15 of 2008, Salaries)

Warrant Officer, Class 2

Lieutenant (who is paid salary under Schedule B.4 to DFRT Determination No. 15 of 2008, Salaries)

Flight Sergeant

Flying Officer (who is paid salary under Schedule B.4 to DFRT Determination No. 15 of 2008, Salaries)

 

7

Warrant Officer

Lieutenant

Warrant Officer, Class 1

Captain

Warrant Officer

Flight Lieutenant

9

Lieutenant Commander

Major

Squadron Leader

11

Lieutenant (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Commander

Captain (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Lieutenant Colonel

Flight Lieutenant (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Wing Commander

 

 

 

 

Column 1

Rent group

Column 2

Rank and, if applicable, pay grade or circumstances

 

Navy

Army

Air Force

12

Lieutenant Commander (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Captain

Major (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Colonel

Squadron Leader (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Group Captain

14

Commander (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Commodore

Lieutenant Colonel (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Brigadier

Wing Commander (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Air Commodore

15

Captain (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Colonel (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Group Captain (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

16

Commodore (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Rear Admiral

Brigadier (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Major General

Air Commodore (who is a Medical Officer or a Dental Officer)

Air Vice Marshal

18

Vice Admiral

Lieutenant General

Air Marshal

 

 

Column 1

Rent group

Column 2

Rent component AUD a week

Column 3

Utilities component
AUD a week

Column 4

Total contribution AUD a week

1

 

3.00

 

9.00

 

12.00

 

2

 

4.00

 

9.00

 

13.00

 

3

 

10.00

 

9.00

 

19.00

 

4

 

16.00

 

9.00

 

25.00

 

5

 

21.00

 

10.00

 

31.00

 

6

 

29.00

 

10.00

 

39.00

 

7

 

34.00

 

10.00

 

44.00

 

8

 

40.00

 

11.00

 

51.00

 

9

 

48.00

 

11.00

 

59.00

 

10

 

58.00

 

11.00

 

69.00

 

11

 

63.00

 

12.00

 

75.00

 

12

 

67.00

 

12.00

 

79.00

 

13

 

73.00

 

12.00

 

85.00

 

14

 

92.00

 

13.00

 

105.00

 

15

 

106.00

 

13.00

 

119.00

 

16

 

120.00

 

13.00

 

133.00

 

17

 

135.00

 

14.00

 

149.00

 

18

 

151.00

 

14.00

 

165.00

 

 

Column 1

Rent group

Column 2

Rent component AUD a week

Column 3

Utilities component
AUD a week

Column 4

Total contribution AUD a week

1

 

30.00

 

13.00

 

43.00

 

2

 

32.00

 

13.00

 

45.00

 

3

 

40.00

 

14.00

 

54.00

 

4

 

48.00

 

14.00

 

62.00

 

5

 

57.00

 

15.00

 

72.00

 

6

 

69.00

 

15.00

 

84.00

 

7

 

75.00

 

16.00

 

91.00

 

8

 

86.00

 

16.00

 

102.00

 

9

 

97.00

 

17.00

 

114.00

 

10

 

112.00

 

17.00

 

129.00

 

11

 

120.00

 

17.00

 

137.00

 

12

 

127.00

 

17.00

 

144.00

 

13

 

134.00

 

18.00

 

152.00

 

14

 

164.00

 

19.00

 

183.00

 

15

 

185.00

 

19.00

 

204.00

 

16

 

205.00

 

20.00

 

225.00

 

17

 

228.00

 

21.00

 

249.00

 

18

 

250.00

 

22.00

 

272.00

 

 

1.

This purpose of this Part is to help with overseas health-related costs for eligible persons during a long-term posting overseas.

2.

The principle behind these benefits is that members should contribute to health costs for their dependants as they would in Australia. The Commonwealth helps with any excess costs.

 

This Part does not apply to members. It applies to their eligible dependants who live with them on the long-term posting.

See: Division 1, Eligible persons

 

This Part includes these Divisions:

 

Division 1

Eligible persons

 

Division 2

Entitlements

 

Division 3

Special benefits for health-related travel

 

Division 4

Claiming health costs

 

1.

To qualify for benefits under this Part, an eligible person must be a dependant of an ADF member.

See: Chapter 12 Part 3 clause 12.3.5, Definition of dependant

2.

For this Part, the definition of dependant in clause 12.3.5 is taken to include the following.

 

a.

A dependent who is less than 21 years old. They need not live with the member for a minimum time at the posting location to be regarded as a dependent.

 

b.

Any dependant recognised under clause 1.3.82 as a dependant with special needs.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2 clause 1.3.82, Dependants with special needs

3.

An eligible person must be certified as fit to live at the posting location.

See: Chapter 14 Part 2 Division 1, Pre-departure certificates of fitness

1.

The period of eligibility for costs outlined in this Part is as follows.

 

a.

The return travel of the eligible person to the posting location.

 

b.

The period during which the eligible person lives with the member overseas and the member is entitled to overseas living allowance.

See: Chapter 15 Part 2, Overseas living allowance

 

c.

Any other special circumstances approved by the CDF.

Example: Reunion visits.

2.

If a member is not entitled to overseas living allowance for a period, they are not eligible for costs outlined in this Part for that period.

Example: This clause would not apply to an eligible person who takes a six-week holiday after the end of the member's posting, if overseas living allowance were not payable.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to outline the entitlements available for an eligible person's health care during a long-term posting.

1.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed out-of-pocket expenses for medical services incurred for an eligible person in a financial year. These conditions apply.

 

a.

The medical service must be one for which the person would be entitled to a Medicare benefit in Australia.

 

b.

The member must reach the following minimum threshold in out-of-pocket medical expenses for the eligible person.

 

i.

If the eligible person is less than 15 years old at the beginning of the financial year, the minimum threshold is AUD 25.

 

ii.

If the eligible person is 15 years or older at the beginning of the financial year, the minimum threshold is AUD 69.

 

c.

The minimum threshold amount is not reimbursed.

 

Exception: Costs associated with assisted reproductive services (ARS) provided overseas are not reimbursable under this clause.

2.

If a member is only eligible for part of the financial year, the threshold amounts in paragraph 1.b are reduced in proportion. 

Example: If the member is only eligible for six months, the minimum threshold is AUD 34.50.

3.

If a member incurs a cost for medical treatment in Australia, the threshold is only reduced by the out-of-pocket cost to the member. The threshold is not reduced by any refunded Medicare benefit amount.

Example: During a visit to Australia, a consultation with a doctor costs AUD 50. The Medicare benefit is AUD 25.20. The AUD 24.80 difference reduces the threshold amount from AUD 69 to AUD 44.20.

1.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed costs for hospital accommodation, treatment and related charges incurred for an eligible person. This is if the hospital facilities are similar to the standard for a public hospital patient in Australia.

2.

The member may incur additional costs because hospital facilities of that standard were not available at the posting location. The CDF may approve payment of an amount of additional costs the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. The CDF must consider all these criteria. 

 

a.

The nature of the illness or condition of the eligible person.

 

b.

The standard of available hospital accommodation, treatment and medical equipment at the posting location.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the treatment of the eligible person.

1.

A member is to be reimbursed costs for pharmaceutical products for an eligible person. The following conditions apply.

 

a.

The pharmaceutical product must be a drug or medicinal preparation prescribed by a doctor.

 

b.

The amount payable is any amount by which an item exceeds AUD 31.30.

Example: A member and dependant are posted to the UK. The dependant is an eligible person and suffers from asthma. The asthma medications cost AUD 35.50 each. The member is reimbursed AUD 4.20 for each item.

2.

During a calendar year, a member may pay repeated threshold costs outlined in paragraph 1.b for an eligible person. After the total threshold payments exceed AUD 1,141.80 for the calendar year, the member is to be reimbursed the amount by which an item exceeds AUD 5.00.

Example: A member paid AUD 35 on a weekly basis for pharmaceutical products in this calendar year for an eligible person. After 37 weeks, they had paid the AUD 31.30 threshold enough times to total AUD 1,158.10. The weekly products now have a threshold of AUD 5 per item and the member is reimbursed AUD 30 to make up the difference to AUD 35.

3.

If a member is accompanied at the post by the eligible person for part of the calendar year, the first threshold total in subclause 2 is reduced in proportion. 

Example: A member only performed duty at the posting location for six months in the calendar year. The total threshold in subclause 2 is halved to AUD 570.90.

4.

A member may incur a cost during a calendar year for an eligible person's pharmaceutical products supplied in Australia during the period of the posting. In this case, the first threshold total in subclause 2 must be reduced by that cost.

Example: During a visit to Australia, a member pays AUD 31.30 for a pharmaceutical product. The total threshold of AUD 1,141.80 is reduced to AUD 1,110.50.

5.

This clause does not apply to any item provided at the posting location at Commonwealth expense. This includes the Medical Equipment Set Individual Foreign Service.

1.

A member is to be reimbursed costs for pharmaceutical products for a dependant during a calendar year if the following conditions are met.

 

a.

The member has a recognised dependant with special needs.

 

b.

The dependant held a Government issued Health Care Card which was valid at the time of leaving Australia, and provides evidence of that to their overseas post administration section.

 

c.

The pharmaceutical product supplied is a drug or medicinal preparation prescribed by a doctor.

 

d.

The pharmaceutical product supplied is listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

See: Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme

 

e.

The pharmaceutical product is for the person specified on the Health Care Card who is a member or a dependant of the member. If the pharmaceutical product is not for the person specified on the Health Care Card then clause 15.5.9 applies.


2.

The amount reimbursed is the difference paid above the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme threshold of AUD 5 for each item.

3.

During a calendar year, a member may pay repeated threshold costs outlined in subclause 2 for a Health Care Card holder. After the total threshold payments reach AUD 290, the member is then entitled to full reimbursement for each item, for the rest of the year.

4.

If a member is accompanied at the post by the eligible person for part of the calendar year, the threshold totals in subclause 3 are reduced in proportion.

Example: A member was only accompanied by their dependant at the posting location for six months in the calendar year. The total threshold in subclause 2 is halved to AUD 145.

5.

A member may incur a cost during a calendar year for an eligible person's pharmaceutical products supplied in Australia during the period of the posting. In this case, the total threshold amounts in subclause 3 must be reduced by that cost.

Example: During a visit to Australia, a member pays AUD 25 for five pharmaceutical products. The total threshold of AUD 290 is reduced to AUD 265.

6.

This clause does not apply to any item provided at the posting location at Commonwealth expense. This includes the Medical Equipment Set Individual Foreign Service.

1.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed costs for ancillary services for an eligible person.

2.

An ancillary service includes an additional service not covered by Medicare, but covered by Medibank Private Extras in Australia. A list of examples is provided in the table below.

Note: As all dependants of members are required to obtain certificates of fitness before departure, the principle for recognising an ancillary service for reimbursement under this Part is that there is a clearly identified medical or dental need for it.

See: Chapter 14 Part 2 Division 2, Pre-departure certificate of fitness

 

An ancillary service includes services like these...

dental treatment that is medically necessary

optical services

 

Example: An eligible person requires a change of prescription lenses. The member would be entitled to be reimbursed for the costs incurred under subclause 3.

physiotherapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy

ambulance transport

and excludes services like these...

cosmetic dental treatment

 

Example: An eligible person wishes to have their teeth capped and existing amalgam fillings replaced with a synthetic type. This work would be for cosmetic reasons only. The member would not be entitled to reimbursement for the costs incurred under subclause 3.

cosmetic optical treatment

 

Example: coloured contact lenses with no corrective property.

 


3.

The member is entitled to the additional cost above the cost of a similar service in Australia. The Australian cost is determined by reference to either of these health funds.

 

a.

The private health fund the member belongs to.

 

b.

Medibank Private, if the member does not have private health insurance.

 

Example: An eligible person had dental work overseas, totalling AUD 400. The Australian private health insurance fund estimates AUD 300 as the cost of the same treatment in Australia. The member is reimbursed AUD 100 for the eligible person's dental work.

4.

When cost data is not available at the posting location, the Welfare Unit of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Canberra, will be able to help. They will also provide a copy of their advice to the Overseas Administration Team.

5.

...

1.

This clause covers dental treatment for a child who meets both of these conditions has not yet started secondary education and is an eligible person under this Part.

 

a.

They have not yet started secondary education.

 

b.

They are an eligible person under this part.

2.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed the cost of some kinds of dental treatment for an eligible child. Costs that may and may not be reimbursed are shown in this table.

 

Item

Costs that may be reimbursed

Costs that may not be reimbursed

1.

Cleaning

Dentures

2.

Dental check-ups

Orthodontic appliances
Example: Braces

3.

Dental education

4.

Emergency treatment

5.

Extractions

6.

Fillings

7.

Preventative care

8.

X-rays

 

3.

The member is not entitled to be reimbursed for costs under subclause 2 until the costs have passed a threshold. 

 

a.

That threshold is AUD 40 (or the equivalent in local currency) in each financial year.

 

b.

The threshold amount is not reimbursed to the member.

 

c.

The threshold figure applies for each eligible child.

Example: A member's first child has AUD 200 of dental treatment, and qualifies for reimbursement. The member's second child has AUD 35 of dental treatment at the same time, and does not, as the threshold has not been met.


 

d.

A member may be entitled to be reimbursed under this clause for only a proportion of a financial year. The threshold in respect of that child must be reduced in the same proportion.

Example: A child might start secondary education part way through a financial year. The child will no longer be an eligible child. The threshold that applies to that child will be reduced.

 

e.

The threshold may be reduced to reflect Medicare benefits the member is entitled to. The threshold will be reduced by the difference between the cost incurred and the Medicare benefit. All these conditions must be met.

 

i.

The cost must relate to necessary dental treatment.

 

ii.

The treatment must have been provided in Australia.

 

iii.

The treatment must qualify for a Medicare benefit.

 

iv.

The treatment must have been in the same financial year as the threshold to be varied.

 

Example: In September a member spends AUD 80 on necessary dental treatment for an eligible child in Australia. There is a AUD 55 Medicare benefit. The threshold in respect of that child is reduced by AUD 25 for the rest of that financial year.

 

A member is entitled to be reimbursed costs for ambulance transport or other necessary medical transport for an eligible person.

1.

The CDF may approve reimbursement for an eligible person who requires a routine medical check. This can be during or after a posting.

2.

The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The general standard of health at the posting location.

 

b.

The incidence of diseases at the location that are unlikely to be contracted in Australia.

3.

If the CDF is satisfied that routine medical checks will be necessary, the member may be reimbursed these costs.

 

a.

The medical check.

 

b.

Return travel to the medical facility for the member and eligible person.

4.

The amount reimbursed must be reduced by any amount payable under either of the following.

 

a.

Medicare Benefits Schedule.

 

b.

The eligible person's health insurance fund.

 

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to help with the cost of travel to obtain health care.

1.

The CDF may approve travel at Commonwealth expense so that an eligible person can receive treatment at another location. The travel must be for one of these reasons.

 

a.

The eligible person requires health care that cannot be provided at the posting location.

 

b.

The health care cannot be delayed until the person is away from the posting location for recreation or other purposes.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The apparent state of health of the eligible person.

 

b.

Any available professional advice on the person's state of health.

 

c.

The health care facilities available at the posting location.

 

d.

The availability and skill of health care professionals at the posting location.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the person's health.

3.

Travel will not be approved at Commonwealth expense for any assisted reproductive services (ARS) procedures.

 

In addition to travel under clause 15.5.15, the CDF may approve the travel of an escort at Commonwealth expense. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The reasons for the eligible person's travel.

 

b.

The degree to which the person could travel independently for treatment.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the person's welfare during the travel.

1.

The CDF may approve the travel of a child to accompany a parent if the parent has had travel approved under clauses 15.5.15 or 15.5.16.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria when deciding to approve travel for a child to accompany a parent.

 

a.

The child's age.

 

b.

Any practical arrangements the person could make for the child's care in the circumstances.

 

c.

The circumstances in which the person is to travel.

 

1.

If an eligible person, escort or child travels under this Division, they are entitled to economy class travel. These two exceptions apply.

 

a.

An eligible person is certified by a doctor as pregnant at the time of travel. The eligible person travels business class, or first class if business class is not available.

 

b.

The CDF approves a higher class of travel as reasonable in the circumstances for an eligible person.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The person's apparent state of health.

 

b.

The nature of the aircraft seating that the person requires for medical reasons during the travel.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the person's travel.

3.

The eligible person, escort and child are to travel in the same class.

1.

This clause sets out accommodation and meal costs, for eligible persons who are authorised to travel under this Division.

Exception: This clause does not apply to a person who is an in-patient at a hospital.

2.

This table sets out the entitlements for travel from the posting location to another overseas location.

 

TABLE 1   Authorised travel from posting location to another overseas location

Item

For a person living in...

the entitlement is...

1.

commercial accommodation for more than five days, with facilities to prepare a cooked meal

The reasonable cost of the person's accommodation.

2.

commercial accommodation for one to five days, with facilities to prepare a cooked meal

as if the person were settling in on long-term posting at the other location.

See: Chapter 14 Part 5, Settling in and out

3.

commercial accommodation without facilities to prepare a cooked meal

4.

private accommodation

Example: staying with relatives or friends

25% of the meals supplement payable if the person were settling in on long-term posting at the other location.

See: Chapter 14 Part 5, Settling in and out

 


3.

This table sets out the entitlements for travel from the posting location to another location in Australia.

 

TABLE 2   Authorised travel from posting location to a location in Australia

Item

For a person living in...

the entitlement is...

1.

commercial accommodation for more than five days, with facilities to prepare a cooked meal

for accommodation only.

 

Accommodation is paid at the daily travelling allowance rate, as if the member was temporarily performing duty at the location in Australia for up to 21 days.

 

Accommodation may not be paid for more than 21 days.

 

See: Annex 9.5.A within Australia

2.

commercial accommodation for one to five days, with facilities to prepare a cooked meal

as in item a, plus the amount for meals payable under clause 14.5.5 if the member were evacuated to the location in Australia.

 

See: Chapter 14 Part 6 Division 1, Evacuations

3.

commercial accommodation without facilities to prepare a cooked meal

4.

private accommodation

Example: staying with relatives or friends

25% of the amount for meals mentioned under items 2 and 3.

 

See: Chapter 14 Part 6 Division 1, Evacuations

 

4.

Regardless of a member's rank, the rates payable under this clause are limited to the rates payable to members with the rank of Colonel or lower.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to provide a member with information about making health care claims and seeking reimbursement.

 

This table outlines how to submit claims for this Part. 

 

Item

If the member is serving in a country...

then claims should be forwarded to the...

1.

with an Australian diplomatic mission

Post Administration Section of the Australian diplomatic mission in the country of posting.

2.

without an Australian diplomatic mission

Embassy or High Commission where the controlling Defence Attaché is located.

 

To be reimbursed costs under this Part, the member and any eligible person must assign to the Commonwealth the legal rights to recover costs from another person.

1.

A member may request the CDF to approve payment of costs to the provider, instead of reimbursing the member.

2.

This clause does not apply to ancillary services or pharmaceutical products.

3.

The member must have paid the Commonwealth any amount in excess of entitled amounts under this Part.

Example: After an accident, the member incurs costs of USD 20,000 for emergency transport and hospital treatment. The hospital facilities are of a similar standard to those for a public hospital patient in Australia. There is no member contribution under Division 2 clause 15.5.8. The CDF approves payment of the full amount direct to the hospital.

1.

The purpose of this Part is to assist with the additional costs for a dependant child attending school overseas, or staying behind in Australia if the member is posted overseas. This benefit is provided in one of the following forms.

 

 

The reimbursement of additional costs to the member.

See: Division 1 clause 15.6.6, Reimbursement

 

b.

An up-front payment of compulsory tuition fees to the child's school at the overseas posting.

 

c.

An up-front payment of compulsory tuition fees and accommodation costs to the child's school in Australia.

 

 

See: Division 1 clause 15.6.7, Up-front payment

2.

A period may arise where members are eligible for education assistance both under this Part and under Chapter 8 Part 4 for performing duty within Australia, for the same child. For that period, the member only receives the benefits under Chapter 8 Part 4.

See: Chapter 8 Part 4, Education assistance

 

A member is eligible for education assistance under this Part if they meet all these conditions.

 

a.

They are on a long-term overseas posting.

 

b.

They have a dependant child.

 

c.

The child is in full-time primary or secondary education.

Exception: Education assistance is also provided for a child in pre-school at the member's posting location. The child must be at least three years old.

 

d.

The member is accompanied.

Exception: The CDF may approve education assistance for unaccompanied members who have primary parental responsibility or care of a dependant.

 

This Part includes these Divisions and Annexes.

 

Division 1

Overview

 

Division 2

Education assistance for children at the posting location

 

Division 3

Additional assistance for children overseas – USA

 

Division 4

Education assistance for children overseas – special circumstances

 

Division 5

Education assistance for children in Australia

 

Annex 15.6.A

Benchmark schools

 

Annex 15.6.B

Approved summer schools

 

This table explains the definition of terms used in this Part.

 

Term

Definition

Benchmark school

Provides a 'benchmark' for the amount of education assistance to be reimbursed to the member or paid to a school, when a child attends school at the posting location.

See: Division 2 clause 15.6.10 and Annex 15.6.A

Compulsory tuition fees

Means the total sum of the annual amount of these fees levied:

a. Tuition and sports fees.

b. Travel by a child in a specially designated school bus.

c. Other fees and charges, excluding boarding fees.

d. Any Government taxes levied on the fees.

Note: Compulsory tuition fees do not include the cost of school uniforms.

1.

A member who is entitled to reimbursement under this Part may be reimbursed in instalments.

2.

Where annual entitlement amounts appear, pro-rata amounts are payable if a period of entitlement is less than a school year. This formula is applied to work out the pro-rata amount.

 

Annual amount x

Number of weeks the child attended school

 

Number of weeks in the school year

3.

If a member is refunded any amounts from providers outlined in this Part, the entitlement must be reduced accordingly.

Example: Levies were refunded by the school for a cancelled sporting event. The member is not entitled to keep the refunded amount and must repay it to the Commonwealth.

1.

A member who is eligible for assistance under this Part may have the compulsory tuition fees paid in an up-front payment to the dependant child's school.

2.

Either of the following amounts may be paid in an up-front payment.

 

a.

If the dependant child attends school at the overseas location — the compulsory tuition fees up to the maximum specified under subclause 15.6.11.2.

See: Division 2 clause 15.6.11, Entitlement – general

 

b.

If the dependant child remains in school in Australia — the compulsory tuition fees and the accommodation costs up to the maximum specified under subclause 15.6.28.1.

See: Division 5 clause 15.6.28, Rates of assistance


 

c.

An amount for the initial enrolment of the child under subclause 15.6.28.2.

See: Division 5 clause 15.6.28, Rates of assistance

3.

If the amount for compulsory tuition fees or accommodation costs is above the maximum amount paid as an up-front payment under subclause 2, the amount above the maximum must be paid by the member.

Note: Any amount paid by the member under this subclause cannot be reimbursed to the member under clause 15.6.6.

 

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to help with the additional education costs of a child attending school at the member's posting location overseas.

 

This Division applies to a member who has a dependant child attending any of these levels of school at the posting location.

 

a.

Pre-school.

 

b.

Primary school.

 

c.

Secondary school.

1.

A benchmark school at the member's posting location provides a 'benchmark' for the amount of education assistance provided.

2.

The compulsory tuition fees levied by the benchmark school set the maximum amount of assistance available at the posting location.

3.

Members are not required to send their children to benchmark schools. They may choose schools that charge fees above or below the benchmark level. Benchmark schools provide a fee benchmark. The Commonwealth does not endorse them.

4.

A list of benchmark schools is provided in Annex 15.6.A, Benchmark schools.

5.

Correspondence schools operated by an Australian government body are also treated as benchmark schools. This is when no suitable school is available at the posting location and the child uses correspondence school for education.

6.

The benchmark school provides as closely as possible an equivalent Australian standard of education at a reasonable cost. These are the general assessment criteria for including a benchmark school in Annex 15.6.A.

 

a.

The basis on which the school charges fees, and the level of its fees.

 

b.

The school’s educational curriculum.

 

c.

The standard of tuition at the school.

 

d.

The school’s ability to provide for the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of Australian children.

 

e.

The language that the school teaches in.

 

f.

The extent to which other educational institutions recognise qualifications from the school for entry to higher stages of education.

 

g.

The access to student places at the school.

 

h.

The extent to which the school complies with relevant laws on the operation of schools at the location.

 

i.

Any other factor relevant to the suitability of the school for Australian children.

1.

This subclause applies to a member with a child who attends school at the member's posting location. The member may be reimbursed the lesser of the following.

 

a.

The compulsory tuition fees paid for the child to attend school at the posting location.

 

b.

The compulsory tuition fees levied by a benchmark school in the posting area.

2A.

...

2.

The member may elect that the payment described in subclause 1 be paid directly to the child's school as an up-front payment.

3.

Members must contribute an amount representing the typical cost of attending government schools in Australia. Annual contribution amounts are listed in this table.

 

Item

School level

Annual contribution in AUD

1.

Pre-school

441

2.

Primary school

150

3.

Secondary school

351

 

4.

Additional costs may be reimbursed, as outlined this table.

 

Item

Additional education costs

See:

1.

School transport.

Clause 15.6.12

2.

Compulsory examination fees.

Clause 15.6.13

3.

Foreign language tuition.

Clause 15.6.14

4.

Remedial tuition.

Clause 15.6.15

5.

Summer school costs.

Clause 15.6.16

6.

Other special situations.

  1. Division 3, Additional assistance for children overseas – UK and USA
  2. Division 4, Education assistance for children overseas – special circumstances

 

5.

This subclause applies to a member whose child begins study in Australia, then leaves to study at the member's overseas posting location. The following conditions apply.

 

a.

The member is not entitled to education assistance for the child's study at the overseas post for any period they have received assistance for the child's study in Australia.

Exception: The member may be reimbursed a maximum yearly amount equal to the relevant contribution amount under subclause 3.

 

b.

After the period under paragraph a has ended, the member is entitled to education assistance under this Division.


 

c.

Despite paragraph a, the CDF may decide that a member is entitled to education assistance. The CDF must consider the cost to Defence.

Example: A member accepts a posting overseas. The member's child stays with his grandmother in Australia and attends a government school. The Commonwealth pays the child's yearly compulsory tuition fees. The child moves to the overseas post because he misses his parents and attends a benchmark school there. The CDF decides to provide education assistance for the study at the benchmark school because the annual government compulsory tuition fees in Australia, paid by the Commonwealth, were minimal. This is despite the fact the period for which the Commonwealth had paid fees for the Australian school had not yet ended.

1.

The following table defines terms used in this clause.

 

Item

Term

Definition

1.

Administrative year

The period starting 1 March and ending on the following 28 February, or 29 February in a leap year.

2.

Member contribution amount

The amount a member is required to contribute towards their public transport costs over an administrative year.

 

2.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed for the costs of the child travelling to and from school. The reimbursement can be made for these types of travel.

 

a.

Public transport.

 

b.

Transport contracted by the school, but not levied by the school.

3.

The entitlement is an amount equal to the lesser of these fares.

 

a.

Fares that would be payable if the child attended a benchmark school.

 

b.

Fares paid by the member for the child.

 

Example: A child attends a school in Washington. It costs USD 500 a year to travel to and from a non-benchmark school. The fares for the benchmark school are USD 400. The member is only entitled to USD 400, less the contribution under subclause 4.

4.

The member is required to make a contribution towards their dependant's school transport costs claimed under this part. The following table outlines the member contribution for each administrative year.

 

Item

Administrative year

Member contribution amount

1.

1 March 2013 – 28 February 2014

AUD 233.00

2.

1 March 2014 – 28 February 2015

AUD 316.00

3.

1 March 2015 – 29 February 2016

AUD 343.20

 


4A.

The amount a member may be reimbursed is calculated in the following table.

 

Step

Action

1.

Count the number of school days for the child at the location in the administrative year. Do not count more than 158.

2.

Divide the outcome of Step 1 by 158.

 

Note: The maximum number of days in a year a member must contribute towards their dependant's school transport costs is capped at 158 days. This represents the maximum number of days in a year for which a student must pay for public transport to school in Canberra.

3.

Calculate the member contribution amount by multiplying the outcome of Step 2 by the relevant administrative year contribution amount in the table of subclause 4A.

 

Note: The member contribution amount is based on the cost of a yearly school bus fare in Canberra. Please refer to paragraph 15.6.12.3 which sets the relevant limit of a member's entitlement.

4.

Subtract a member contribution from the outcome of Step 4. The member contribution is the outcome of Step 3.

5.

The member may be paid the outcome of Step 5 if it is more than zero.

 

 

Example: A dependant's local school year bus ticket costs AUD 400.00. The member is entitled to the difference between that and AUD 343.20. The amount reimbursed is AUD 56.80.

 

Note: The exchange rate used to calculate member's contribution amount is taken from the payday immediately before 1 March in that administrative year.

5.

The Commonwealth will not reimburse costs to privately transport a child to and from school.

 

The member may be required to pay fees for examinations for a child to complete primary or secondary school. In this case, the member is entitled to be reimbursed the lesser of these amounts.

 

a.

The actual examination fees.

 

b.

The fees for similar examinations at a benchmark school at the child's education level.

1.

The member is to be reimbursed costs that the CDF approves as reasonable for foreign language tuition because the member's child must attend classes that do not use English as the teaching language.

Example: A child attends a school where maths is not taught in English.

2.

If a recognised dependant with special needs communicates with a form of communication other than speech or writing and must attend classes where a different form of that communication is used, the member is to be reimbursed costs that the CDF considers reasonable for tuition in the new communication form.


 

Example: Where a deaf child communicates using AUSLAN, the Australian form of sign language, and the location where they are posted uses AMASLAN, the American form of sign language, the child needs to receive tutoring in this new language to be able to communicate at their school in the posting location.

 

See also: For foreign language training for a member's spouse or partner see Part 6A.

1.

The CDF may decide that a member can be reimbursed for extra costs associated with a child's remedial tuition. This clause does not apply to foreign language tuition under clause 15.6.14.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The child’s education progress.

 

b.

The nature and cost of the tuition.

 

c.

The probable need for and cost of similar tuition in Australia.

 

d.

Whether the remedial tuition is necessary for the child to make reasonable progress at school, within the limits of their ability.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the child's educational progress.

3.

The member can be reimbursed for up to 200 hours' remedial tuition a year for a child.

1.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed for their child to attend an approved summer school.

2.

Approved summer schools are listed in Annex 15.6.B, Approved summer schools.

3.

Reimbursement for attending summer school is available for these periods.

 

a.

Three weeks, if in France, or

 

b.

Four weeks, for all other locations.

4.

A member is not entitled to be reimbursed for summer school costs in any of these situations.

 

a.

Their child is not eligible for education assistance under this Division.

 

b.

There is no approved summer school at the posting location.

 

c.

Their child attends a summer school that is not on the approved summer school list.

 

d.

The child attends school in Australia, and only lives with the member during a reunion visit.

5.

The following additional arrangements apply to Enforex in Spain.

 

a.

Members may only be reimbursed for costs of the Enforex Day Camp Summer Program in their posting location.

 

b.

Costs for optional sports will not be reimbursed.

 

Related Information: More summer school conditions for the USA are at clause 15.6.21, USA – summer camps

 

This Division applies to members on long-term posting, with dependent children attending school in the USA.

1.

The benchmark school is the Government school (if any) at the location where the member lives, which offers these services.

 

a.

At least 15 hours of part-time tuition a week. This applies to children who are under five by 31 December in the current school year.

 

b.

Full time tuition, for any other child.

2.

The CDF may decide that a suitable benchmark school is not available for a child because the member has been directed to live in a district. This table lists the maximum annual compulsory tuition fees that may be paid.

See: Division 1
Clause 15.6.6, Reimbursement
Clause 15.6.7, Up-front payment

 

Item

If the member is...

then the compulsory tuition fees in USD are...

Preschool

1.

directed to live on Manhattan Island

12,311

 

2.

not directed to live on Manhattan Island

6,799

 

Primary school

3.

directed to live on Manhattan Island

20,990

 

4.

not directed to live on Manhattan Island, and lives in New York State

15,848

 

5.

directed to live in the District of Columbia

18,121

 

6.

living elsewhere in the USA

13,586

 

Secondary school

7.

directed to live on Manhattan Island

24,792

 

8.

not directed to live on Manhattan Island, and lives in New York State

15,848

 

9.

directed to live in the District of Columbia

18,121

 

10.

living elsewhere in the USA

13,586

 

 

3.

If a member's child attends pre-school, but they will not turn five by 31 December in the current school year, the member is only reimbursed the cost of five half-days of tuition a week.


4.

A child may intend to begin a course of study at a university or similar tertiary institution in Australia. In order to obtain admission, the child must attend freshman year at a junior college or similar tertiary institution in the USA. In this case, attendance is treated as secondary school. Both these conditions must be met. 

 

a.

The child lived or intends to live with a member at the posting location for a substantial part of the posting period.

 

b.

The child has completed high school in the USA.

1.

This clause applies only to members who meet both these conditions.

 

a.

They are directed to live on Manhattan Island, USA.

 

b.

They are entitled to child allowance for a child. 

2.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed mandatory fees for summer camps for the child, including day camps.

3.

Reimbursement must not be more than these amounts.

 

a.

For a child attending pre-school, USD 805 a year.

 

b.

For a child attending primary or secondary school, USD 2,530 a year.

 

 

The purpose of this Division is to set out other education assistance available for members on long term posting. These situations are less common types of assistance.

1.

The CDF may grant education assistance if satisfied that facilities are inadequate at the posting location. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The availability and nature of the education facilities at the member’s posting location.

 

b.

The education arrangements made for the child and their cost.

 

c.

The nature and cost of other arrangements that the member could be expected to make at the posting location or in Australia.

 

d.

Any other factor relevant to the child's educational progress.

2.

The amount of assistance is what the member would have got under Division 2, if the child had been at the posting location. The member may also receive any extra costs that the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The availability and nature of the educational facilities at the member’s posting location.

 

b.

The educational arrangements made by the member for the child and the cost of the arrangements.

 

c.

The nature and cost of other arrangements that the member could be expected to make to educate the child at the posting location, or in Australia.

 

d.

Any other circumstance at the posting location affecting the educational welfare of the child.

3.

If the child is educated away from the member's posting location (even in the same country), the member is entitled to both these conditions of service.

 

a.

Reunion visits for the child.

See: Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 3, Reunion travel

 

b.

Child reunion allowance, instead of child allowance.

Note: The child is taken to be living with the member for all other purposes under this Chapter.

4.

Arrangements under this clause may permit the child to attend an overseas school away from the posting location. In this case, the member is not entitled to be reimbursed more than the amount that they would get if the child lived in Australia in similar circumstances and attended a nonGovernment school.

 

1.

This clause applies to a member whose child meets both these conditions.

 

a.

The child travels away from the member’s posting location to begin school.

Example: A child travels from Jakarta to Melbourne to start boarding school.

 

b.

The child is entitled to education assistance under this Part.

2.

The member is entitled to be reimbursed the applicable amount in this table.

 

Item

If the child's school is...

the member is entitled to be reimbursed...

1.

in Australia

the lesser of these amounts.

a. The cost incurred by the member for the child's travel.

b. The allowable travel cost for the child to travel from the posting location to the school.

2.

outside Australia

the least of these amounts.

a. The cost incurred by the member for the child's travel.

b. The allowable travel cost for the child to travel from the posting location to the school.

c. The allowable travel cost for the child to travel from the posting location to where the member normally lives in Australia.

1.

The Commonwealth may pay fares for a member or spouse or interdependent partner to accompany their child to begin boarding school in another location. This applies only once for each child on a longterm posting.

2.

To be eligible, these conditions apply.

 

a.

The child must meet all these conditions.

 

i.

They have lived at posting location for a whole year or whole school year.

 

ii.

They are due to start primary or secondary school as a boarder.

 

iii.

They have not previously attended school as a boarder.

 

b.

The CDF must also be satisfied that both these conditions are met.

 

i.

Arrangements for the child's enrolment could not have been made in conjunction with other travel at Commonwealth expense.

 

ii.

Enrolment of the child by people other than the member or spouse or interdependent partner would be severely detrimental to the child's welfare.

3.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The period the child has been overseas because of the member's posting.

 

b.

The period the member has been overseas on posting.

 

c.

The cost and duration of travel involved.

 

d.

The availability of other persons to enrol the child.


 

e.

The date when the member or spouse or interdependent partner last travelled to the country where the child will be enrolled.

 

f.

Any other factor relevant to the child enrolling as a boarder.

4.

Amounts of reimbursement are shown in this table.

 

Item

If travel to begin boarding school is to...

then the member may be reimbursed...

1.

Australia

the least of one of these amounts:

  1. the cost for the member or spouse or interdependent partner to accompany the child and return to the posting location, or
  2. the allowable travel cost for the travel

2.

a location other than Australia

the least of one of these amounts:

  1. the cost for the member or spouse or interdependent partner to accompany the child and return to the posting location
  2. the allowable travel cost, as if the travel was from the posting location to where the member lives in Australia.

 

5.

The member cannot be reimbursed these costs incurred by the member, spouse or interdependent partner or child.

 

a.

Costs associated with stopovers.

 

b.

Accommodation and meals at the location of the boarding school.

6.

The CDF may decide that this clause relates to the child for special circumstances. These include the following.

 

a.

The child has not lived at the posting location or for a whole school year.

 

b.

Special circumstances relate to the welfare of the child, therefore continuing school at the posting location is undesirable.

Examples: It may become untenable for the child to live overseas for these reasons.

 

c.

The child is not making satisfactory academic progress and the situation is unlikely to change.

 

d.

The curriculum at the school is significantly different from schools previously attended.

 

e.

Educational opportunities at the posting location do not help the child overcome their difficulties.

7.

A member is not entitled to be reimbursed under this clause more than once during the posting period.

 

1.

The purpose of this Division is to assist with the costs for a dependant child remaining in school in Australia, while the member is posted overseas.

See: Division 1
Clause 15.6.6, Reimbursement
Clause 15.6.7, Up-front payment

2.

However, members must pay a contribution.

 

To be eligible for education assistance under this Division, all these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The member is posted overseas.

 

b.

The member's dependent child meets all these conditions.

 

i.

They are normally part of the member's household.

 

ii.

They are eligible for removal as a dependant of the member.

 

iii.

They remain in Australia to attend primary or secondary school.

1.

The following table outlines the following issues.

 

a.

The annual maximum reimbursement or up-front payment amount for a child's compulsory tuition fees and accommodation costs (including meals and laundry).

 

b.

The contribution that a member is required to make.

 

See: Division 1
Clause 15.6.6, Reimbursement
Clause 15.6.7, Up-front payment

 

Item

The annual maximum is...

less an annual member contribution of...

Compulsory tuition fees

1.

AUD 25,265 for the cost of compulsory tuition

AUD 150 if the child is in primary school.

AUD 351 if the child is in secondary school.

Accommodation

2.

AUD 23,211 for the cost of accommodation in a boarding school or a commercial establishment

the greater of the following.

a.

The cost incurred for accommodation prior to the posting (see subclause 1A).

b.

AUD 2,938 (AUD 2,516 if the first year of boarding).

Exception: If the child lives in the family home no assistance is provided for accommodation.


Item

The annual maximum is...

less an annual member contribution of...

Accommodation

3.

AUD 15,290 for the cost of private accommodation

Example: A lodger boarding in a private home.

the greater of the following.

a.

The cost incurred for accommodation prior to the posting (see subclause 1A).

b.

AUD 2,938.

Exception: If the child lives in the family home no assistance is provided for accommodation.

 

1A.

In items 2 and 3 of the table in subclause 1, the cost incurred for accommodation prior to the posting means the annual rate of accommodation that was current on the day before the date on which the notice of posting was issued.

2.

A member might need to pay an amount for the initial enrolment of the child, over and above the maximum tuition fee entitlement. This amount may be reimbursed to the member or paid up-front to the school.

 

See: Division 1
Clause 15.6.6, Reimbursement
Clause 15.6.7, Up-front payment

3.

This subclause applies to a member whose child returns to Australia to study before the end of the posting. Both the following conditions apply.

 

a.

The member is not entitled to education assistance for the child's study at the Australian school for any period they have received assistance for the child's study at the overseas post.

Exception: The member may be reimbursed a maximum yearly amount equal to the relevant contribution for compulsory tuition fees under subclause 1, table item 1.

 

b.

After the period under paragraph a has ended, the member is entitled to education assistance under this Division.

 

Example: A member is accompanied by their child on an overseas posting to Paris. The Commonwealth pays the annual tuition fees for the child to attend school. The Paris school year runs from September to July. The child starts school in September but in November the member sends the child back to Australia where she attends boarding school. The Commonwealth will only reimburse the member for the cost of compulsory tuition fees in Australia at the rate charged by a government school until July when the school year in Paris ends. From July the member may be provided with education assistance under subclause 1.

1.

A member is entitled to be reimbursed for the extra cost of remedial tuition if all these conditions are met.

 

a.

The tuition is for a dependent child.

 

b.

The member incurs the tuition costs.

 

c.

The child attends an Australian primary or secondary school full time.

 

d.

Cost A in this table is greater than Cost B.

 


Item

Cost

Definition

1.

Cost A

What the remedial tuition cost the member. The tuition must have been essential to allow the child to make reasonable educational progress, within the limits of the child’s ability.

2.

Cost B

What the tuition would have cost the member, if they had remained in Australia.

 

2.

In assessing Cost B, the CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The child’s educational progress.

 

b.

The nature and cost of the tuition.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the child’s educational welfare.

1.

For this Division, the period of reimbursement begins on the earliest of these dates.

 

a.

The first day of the member's posting period.

 

b.

The first day of the next school term, after the member begins duty at the posting location.

 

c.

The first day of any assessment period to gain entry for the next year of schooling.

2.

The period ends on the last day of the school year after the end of the member's posting period.

Exception: If the child is in the final two years of secondary school, the period ends the on the last day of the child's secondary schooling, after the end of the member's posting period.

2A.

In spite of subclause 2, the period does not extend beyond the last day of the school year during which a member’s posting ends, unless the child meets both these conditions.

 

a.

When the posting ends, they are attending a secondary school in Australia.

 

b.

They meet the requirements of this table.

 

Item

If the child is in...

then the child must have attended secondary school in Australia...

1.

the first year of secondary school

from the beginning of the school year.

2.

any other year of secondary school

for at least four school terms before the day on which the posting ends.

 

3.

The period also ends if a parent permanently leaves the posting location to return to Australia.

4.

If any assistance continues after the end of the posting period, the assistance is provided only for the school the child attended immediately before the end of the posting period.

 

 

This subclause applies if a parent continues to live with the child in Australia after the period of assistance begins. The member is not entitled to education assistance under this Division.

Exception: Approval may be given if the CDF is satisfied that it is impracticable for the child to continue to attend the school that the child attended immediately before the period of assistance began.

1.

This clause applies to a child if both these conditions are met.

 

a.

The member or other parent returns to Australia.

 

b.

The member or other parent begins on a day to live at the location at which a child is attending school.

2.

The child is taken to be living at home during any school term beginning after that day.

Exception: The CDF may decide that this clause should not apply for a fixed period, on the ground that in the circumstances, it is not reasonable for the child to live with that parent.

Example: A child is attending boarding school in Brisbane during a member's long-term posting. The member's spouse becomes seriously ill and returns from the post to Australia for urgent medical treatment. Although the spouse is living in the family home in Brisbane, the child continues to board at the school because the spouse is unable to provide day-to-day care. The CDF approves that this clause should not apply during the period of the spouse's medical treatment.

 

Item

Posting location

Benchmark school

Pre-school/Kindergarten

Primary school

Secondary school

1.

Belgium

International School, Brussels

International School, Brussels

International School, Brussels

2.

Cambodia

-

International School, Phonm Penh

-

3.

Canada

Fern Hill School, Ottawa

Any government school

Any government school

4.

China

British School, Beijing

British School, Beijing

British School, Beijing

5.

Cook Islands

Te Uki Oh School

Te Uki Oh School

-

6.

East Timor

Quality Schools International, Dili

Quality Schools International, Dili

Quality Schools International, Dili

7.

Fiji

International School, Suva

International School, Suva

International School, Suva

8.

France

 

 

 

- Paris

International School, Paris

International School, Paris

International School, Paris

- other

EPIM School, Aix-en-Provence

EPIM School, Aix-en-Provence

EPIM School, Aix-en-Provence

9.

Germany

Brandenberg Berlin International School

Brandenberg Berlin International School

Brandenberg Berlin International School

10.

India

American Embassy School, New Delhi

American Embassy School, New Delhi

American Embassy School, New Delhi

11.

Indonesia

Jakarta International School

Jakarta International School

Jakarta International School

12.

Japan

American School, Tokyo

American School, Tokyo

American School, Tokyo

13.

Jordan

American Community School, Amman

American Community School, Amman

American Community School, Amman

14.

Kiribati

-

Ruruboa School

-

15.

Korea

Seoul Foreign British School

Seoul Foreign British School

Seoul Foreign British School

Seoul Foreign School

16.

Kuwait

The English School

The English School

The English School

17.

Malaysia

 

 

 

- Kuala Lumpur

Children's House

International School

International School

- elsewhere

St Christopher's School, Butterworth

St Christopher's School, Butterworth

Uplands School, Butterworth

18.

Marshall Islands

Majuro Cooperative School

Majuro Cooperative School

Majuro Cooperative School

19.

Micronesia

Calvary Christian Academy

Calvary Christian Academy

Calvary Christian Academy

 

Item

Posting location

Benchmark school

Pre-school/Kindergarten

Primary school

Secondary school

20.

Netherlands (including The Hague)

The British School in The Netherlands

The British School in The Netherlands

The British School in The Netherlands

21.

New Zealand

Any government school

Any government school

Any government school

22.

Palau

Emmaus Gospel Kindergarten

Seventh Day Adventist Elementary School

-

23.

Papua New Guinea

 

Any Australian curriculum primary school administered by the Papua New Guinea Government or the International Education Agency

Any Australian curriculum secondary school administered by the Papua New Guinea Government or the International Education Agency

- Port Moresby

Ela Beach

- Lae

-

24.

Philippines

International School, Manila

International School, Manila

International School, Manila

25.

Samoa

Baha'i Montessori

Vaiala Beach School

Robert Louis Stevenson Secondary School

26.

Saudi Arabia

American International School, Riyadh

American International School, Riyadh

American International School, Riyadh

27.

Singapore

Australian International School

Australian International School

Australian International School

28.

Solomon Islands

Woodford International School

Woodford International School

Woodford International School

29.

Spain

 

 

 

- Madrid

American School of Madrid

American School of Madrid

American School of Madrid

- La Coruna/Ferrol

Colegio Obradorio

Colegio Obradorio

Colegio Obradorio

29A.

Sri Lanka

Overseas School of Colombo

Overseas School of Colombo

Overseas School of Colombo

30.

Thailand

Bangkok Patana School

Bangkok Patana School

Bangkok Patana School

31.

Tonga

ACTS Community School

ACTS Community School

Ocean of Light International School

31A.

Turkey

-

The George C Marshall School

The George C Marshall School

32.

UK

Southbank International School

Southbank International School

Southbank International School

32A.

United Arab Emirates

The GEMS American Academy

The GEMS American Academy

The GEMS American Academy

33.

USA

Any government pre-school

See also: Clause 15.6.20

Any government primary school

See also: Clause 15.6.20

Any government secondary school

See also: Clause 15.6.20

34.

Vanuatu

Mrs Parrett's Pre-school Kindergarten

Port Vila International School

-

35.

Vietnam

United Nations International School Hanoi

United Nations International School Hanoi

United Nations International School Hanoi

 

Item

Posting location

Approved summer school

1AA.

Belgium

International School Brussels

1.

Cambodia

Northbridge International School of Cambodia

2.

China

American Employees Association (AEA) Summer Camp

TimeEdu Summer Program

Dulwich Community Program Summer School (excluding all
Off-Campus activities)

2A.

East Timor

Quality Schools International – Dili (excluding the daily program)

3.

France

American School, Paris

Ecole Privées Internationales de Marseille (EPIM School),
Aix-en-Provence

International School, Paris

Centre International Privé pour l'Education ét la Culture (CIPEC), France

International Bilingual School of Provence (IBS), France

4.

India

American Embassy School, New Delhi

5.

Indonesia

Bandung International School

British International School, Jakarta

Jakarta International School, Jakarta

6.

Japan

Azabu International School

Nisimachi International School, Tokyo

Sacred Heart International School, Tokyo

The British School in Tokyo

Tokyo International School

6A.

Jordan

My Gym Summer School

7.

Korea

British International Kindergarten, Seoul

Seoul Club Summer Program, Seoul

Seoul Foreign School, Seoul

8.

Malaysia

International School, Kuala Lumpur

9.

Pakistan

The Satellite Centre, Islamabad International School

10.

Philippines

 

Brent International School, Manila

International School, Manila

11.

Spain:

- All of Spain

 

Enforex Day Camp Summer Program (See: Subclause 15.6.16.5)

- Madrid

American School of Madrid

- La Coruna/Ferrol

Colegio Eiris

Colegio Obradoiro

12.

Thailand

Noddy Pre-School

St Andrews International School

 

 

The purpose of this Part is to provide foreign language training to a member's spouse or partner when they accompany the member on long-term posting.

See also: For foreign language tuition for a member's dependant child see Part 6 Division 2 clause 15.6.14.

1.

The Director Attaché and Overseas Management may grant up to 40 hours of foreign language training at Commonwealth expense for a member's spouse or partner, taking the following into consideration.

 

a.

Whether English is a common language in the country.

 

b.

Whether the foreign language is required for everyday or professional reasons.

 

c.

Whether knowledge of the foreign language will assist in the personal security of the member's spouse or partner.

2.

The Director Attaché and Overseas Management may approve up to an additional 40 hours training taking the following into consideration.

 

a.

The requirement of the spouse or partner to engage in representational activities.

 

b.

The difficulty of the language.

 

c.

The progress the spouse or partner has already made.

3.

The cost of textbooks and other training aides related to the foreign language training is not paid by the Commonwealth or reimbursed to the member, spouse or partner.

 

 

The purpose of this Part is to help members on long-term postings pursue sporting, recreational and fitness activities. This is only at posting locations that have an approved club.

See: Clause 15.7.5, List of approved clubs.

Note: A club is only approved for a posting location when other suitable facilities are not available at sessional rates. If suitable sport and recreational facilities are available at the posting location, the member is compensated for the costs (above the Australian average) through overseas living allowance.

 

This Part applies to a member and their dependants at a posting location that has an approved club.

See: Clause 15.7.5, List of approved clubs

1.

If the posting location has an approved club, the member is entitled to be reimbursed the cost of membership of that club or a similar club at their posting location.

2.

The member must not be reimbursed more than the cost of joining the approved club.

3.

The cost of club membership incurred by the member includes any cost incurred by, or on behalf of, a dependant of the member.

1.

The CDF may decide to pay additional club membership costs considered reasonable in the circumstances. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The general living and working conditions at the posting location.

 

b.

The recreational or social facilities available at the posting location, the arrangements for access to them and their cost.

 

c.

The needs of members and dependants at the posting location for access to such facilities.

 

d.

The nature of the member’s duties at the posting location, including any representational duties.

 

e.

The cost of club membership at the posting location, including family membership.

 

f.

The nature of the facilities at the approved club and at the club that the member joins.

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to club membership at the location.


2.

A member may incur the cost of club membership for a dependant for the period of a reunion visit to the posting location. In this situation, the CDF may decide to reimburse an amount considered reasonable in the circumstances.

See: Part 3 Division 3, Reunion travel

3.

At the member's request, Defence may pay the amount direct to the club, instead of reimbursing the member.

Note: The member must have paid any excess club membership costs to the Commonwealth.

 

This table sets out the approved clubs for the posting locations where this Part applies. 

 

Posting location

Approved club

Brunei

Royal Brunei Yacht Club

Cambodia

Phokeethra Sports Club, Phnom Penh

Cook Islands

Fitness Cook Islands, Rarotonga

Ethiopia

 Hilton Hotel Health Club, Addis Ababa

Fiji

Fiji Club, Suva

India

Hyatt Hotel Health Club, New Delhi

Indonesia

Elite Club Epicentrum, Jakarta

Israel

Moadon Club, Tel Aviv

Jordan

Fitness First Club

Italy

Roman Sports Centre, Rome

Kiribati

Betio Fishing Club, Tarawa

Korea

Seoul Club

Kuwait

Al Corniche Fitness Club

Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur

Kelab Darul Ehsan

Note: Basic membership only. The cost of golf membership must not be reimbursed to the member.

Malaysia – elsewhere

Penang Sports Club

Marshall Islands

Outrigger Marshall Islands Resort Cowry Club

Myanmar

Pun Hlaing Golf Club

Pakistan

Islamabad Club

Palau

Palau Pacific Resort Recreational Club

Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby Golf Club

Philippines

Shangri-La Fitness Club, Manila

Samoa

Fitness Firm Samoa

Saudi Arabia

Dirab Golf and Recreation Club

Solomon Islands

Honiara Golf Club

Sri Lanka

Colombo Swimming Club

Thailand

British Club, Bangkok

Tonga

Tonga-Fit Gymnasium

Turkey

Ankara Sehir Kulubu, Ankara (known as ASK Sports Club)

United Arab Emirates

Hiltonia Health Club and Spa

USA – Manhattan

New York Health and Racquet Club

Note: Only for members who are directed to live on Manhattan Island

Vanuatu

Warwick Le Legon Resort and Spa

Vietnam

The Hanoi Club, Hanoi

 

A club may only be approved for a posting location if the CDF is satisfied on all these criteria.

 

a.

The location does not have acceptable sporting and recreational facilities on a sessional basis or as public facilities.

 

b.

Members and their families suffer serious difficulty in gaining access to public or sessional sporting and recreational facilities because of these issues.

 

i.

Cultural limitations.

 

ii.

Climatic conditions.

 

iii.

Overcrowding.

 

iv.

Traffic congestion.

 

v.

Hygiene.

 

vi.

Pollution.

 

c.

It is common practice for members and dependants to make use of sporting or recreational clubs, because public or sessional sporting or recreational facilities are not available.

 

d.

The proposed club offers a reasonable selection of suitable facilities at reasonable cost.

 

e.

The club is not being proposed for purely social or representational purposes.

 

 

 

The purpose of this Part is to compensate family members if a member or dependant dies overseas.

 

This Part applies to a member (including a member on Reserve service) on a long-term posting overseas. It also applies to dependants living with the member at the posting location.

1.

If a member or dependant dies overseas, their legal personal representative is entitled to one of these amounts.

 

a.

The cost of returning the body to Australia, if the next of kin request it.

 

b.

Any excess costs for the funeral at the posting location.

2.

For paragraph 1.b, these conditions apply.

 

a.

The amount paid is the difference between the additional costs of a funeral at the posting location and a comparable Australian funeral.

Example: If a member would have paid AUD 5,000 for an Australian funeral and the overseas funeral cost AUD 8,000, the Commonwealth will reimburse AUD 3,000.

 

b.

The amount cannot be more than the cost payable under paragraph 1.a.

 

c.

The amount reimbursed must be reduced by any amount that the Commonwealth pays directly for the funeral.

Example: The Commonwealth pays for the funeral at the posting location. There is no entitlement under this clause.

 

d.

The amount in paragraph 1.a covers the cost of returning the member's or dependant's remains to Australia. No additional amount is paid.

1.

Subject to subclause 4, if a member dies during a long-term posting, any entitlements for dependants under Chapters 14 or 15 are to continue.

2.

The period for continuing entitlements:

 

a.

begins on the day the member dies, and

 

b.

ends six weeks after the member dies.

Exception: For transport and removal of dependants and their possessions, the period ends a year after the member dies.


3.

The CDF can grant dependants more time to conclude their arrangements at the posting location. The CDF may extend the period to a day the CDF considers reasonable in the circumstances. The CDF must consider all these factors.

 

a.

The circumstances in which the member died.

 

b.

The situation of the dependants who continue to live at the posting location after the member’s death.

 

c.

Any other factor relevant to the dependants.

4.

These additional conditions apply.

 

a.

Overseas living allowance is paid at two-thirds of the rate that would have been paid if the member had not died.

 

b.

Rent and utilities contribution is not payable.

 

c.

For education assistance entitlements, the deceased member is taken to have returned to Australia on the day the member died.

 

d.

Transport for dependants and their possessions may be provided to a location other than Australia. The amount must not be more what the Commonwealth would have paid if the dependents returned to Australia.

1.

The legally entitled person may be reimbursed for loss on sale of the member’s motor vehicle (or towable item) stored in Australia.

2.

The reimbursement is under Chapter 6 Part 3, Loss on sale of furniture, effect and vehicles.

Note: The limit for loss on sale on overseas postings is AUD 1,400.

 

 

 

This Chapter sets out conditions of service for members on overseas hardship postings. It covers the assistance provided and eligibility for allowances.

 

This Chapter includes the following Parts and Annexes:

 

Part 1

Overview

 

Part 2

Hardship allowance

 

Part 3

Additional recreation leave

 

Part 4

Assisted leave travel

 

Part 5

Accommodation on unavoidable stopovers

 

Part 6

Excess baggage

 

Part 7

Extraordinary costs

 

Part 8

Location allowances

 

Annex 16.A

Hardship post conditions of service

 

1.

The purpose of the overseas hardship package is to provide assistance for members and their dependants beyond that covered by normal overseas conditions of service. It is provided for difficulties or hardships experienced on either of these kinds of overseas service.

 

a.

Long-term posting at certain posting locations overseas.

 

b.

Short-term duty at certain overseas locations (for hardship allowance and additional recreation leave only).

2.

The overseas hardship package is additional to the other benefits provided to members serving overseas. It compensates for difficulties, not for perceived danger. The hardship package is not danger money.

Term

Definition in this Chapter

Hardship

The significant adverse effect on the lifestyle or welfare of members and their dependants, as a result of living conditions at the posting location, as compared with those in Australia.

1.

This Chapter applies to eligible members serving at a location shown in Annex 16.A.

2.

For specific information about the eligibility for each of the components of the hardship package, refer to the appropriate Part in this Chapter.

 

The hardship package consists of:

 

Item

Allowance

See:

1.

Hardship allowance.

Chapter 16 Part 2

2.

Additional recreation leave.

Chapter 16 Part 3

3.

Assisted leave travel.

Chapter 16 Part 4

4.

Accommodation on unavoidable stopovers.

Chapter 16 Part 5

5.

Excess baggage during assisted leave travel.

Chapter 16 Part 6

6.

Assistance in extraordinary circumstances.

Chapter 16 Part 7

7.

Location allowances for Afghanistan and Papua New Guinea..

Chapter 16 Part 8

 

1.

Limits apply to the extent of assistance provided in the hardship package.

2.

For specific information about the limits that apply to each of the components of the hardship package, refer to the appropriate Part in this Chapter.

1.

The hardship package set out in this Chapter does not apply to service on warlike and
non-warlike deployments.

2.

All conditions of service for such deployments are set out in Chapter 17.

1.

Locations are graded on factors that indicate if a location is harder to live in than Australia. Each factor earns points that determine the hardship grade for that location. The total score determines what rate of hardship allowance is paid. Not all grades attract payment of the allowance.

2.

This table lists the factors that are assessed and what they include.

 

Item

Item

Description

1.

Climate

The climate comparison between Australia and the post. Also considers natural disasters and air pollution at the post.

2.

Health

The quality and availability of health care at the post.

3.

Language and culture

A comparison of the first and second languages spoken at the post and in Australia.

4.

Goods and services

The quality and availability of goods and services at the post.

5.

Isolation

The distance between the post and Australia, frequency and reliability of external air travel and the standard of internal transport and communication.

6.

Social network and leisure

The ability to enjoy free time, news, media, an expatriate community and recreation facilities.

7.

Housing, utilities and education

The quality and availability of suitable housing and utilities as well as the availability of international schools, the curriculum taught, the language of the school and the age range of suitable education.

8.

Personal security

The level of criminal activity and social tensions at the post, and their effect on personal safety.

 

3.

The overseas posting location is assessed based on items under subclause 2. The items are assigned a ranking according to six categories. The categories range from A (the least difficult) to F (the most difficult). They are reviewed annually by the data service provider.

4.

Members should be aware that the hardship package for their posting location could change considerably during their posting as a result of the annual review.

 

Some locations are harder to live in than Australia. Hardship allowance makes up for difficult living conditions at the location.

1.

This Part applies to a member who meets either of the following conditions.

 

a.

They are serving at a location shown in Annex 16.A.

 

 

See: Annex 16.A, Hardship post conditions of service

 

b.

They are serving in a provisional hardship location.

 

 

See: Clause 16.2.5A, Provisional hardship locations

2.

When a member leaves a long-term hardship posting location with a period of leave credit that accrued while the member was at the location, the CDF may authorise a payment of hardship allowance. This payment is made in the same manner that overseas living allowance is paid when the member takes that period of leave.

1.

This Part only applies if the total of these periods is 28 days or more.

 

a.

The period the member has been on duty at the location.

See: Chapter 13 Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

 

b.

A period for which the member was entitled to deployment allowance. The period must have been continuous with the period at the hardship location.

Note: However, deployment allowance is payable under Chapter 17, not this Chapter.

2.

Some members are only entitled to a cost of living adjustment and not full overseas living allowance. These members are not entitled to hardship allowance.

See: Chapter 15 Part 2 Division 2 clause 15.2.12, Dual entitlement

3.

Despite subclause 1, a member deployed to OP FIJI ASSIST 2016 does not have to serve a qualifying period. OP FIJI ASSIST 2016 provides ADF support to the whole of Government contribution to the international humanitarian assistance and recovery effort in Fiji, following tropical cyclone Winston.

 

1.

The amount of hardship allowance a member is entitled to depends on both these things.

 

a.

The hardship location grade of the member's location.

 

b.

If the member is an accompanied member.

2.

This table shows the amount of hardship allowance a member is entitled to:

 

Item

Hardship location grade

Rate (AUD per year)

Unaccompanied member

Accompanied member

1.

A

Nil

 

Nil

 

2.

B

Nil

 

Nil

 

3.

C

7,781

 

13,226

 

4.

D

10,371

 

17,631

 

5.

E

15,371

 

25,631

 

6.

F

19,214

 

32,039

 

7.

...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: These rates are subject to income tax.

 

The period of duty for a member is the period beginning on the day the member starts duty at the hardship location, and ending on the day the member finishes duty at the location, whether or not those days are weekends, public holidays or weekdays.

1.

The CDF may decide that a location not listed in Annex 16.A is a hardship location.

2.

If a decision is made under subclause 1, the CDF must also make the following decisions for the location.

 

a.

Approve an appropriate hardship location grade for the location.

 

 

See: Part 1 clause 16.1.7, Basis for hardship package

 

b.

Fix a period of up to three months in which the provisional grade applies.

 

c.

Decide whether to waive the qualifying period under clause 16.2.3.

 

 

See: Clause 16.2.3, Qualifying period

3.

For decisions under this clause, the CDF must consider all of the following criteria.

 

a.

Whether the ADF is required to provide humanitarian aid, disaster relief or reconstruction assistance.

 

b.

The level of assistance required of the ADF.

 

c.

The level of hardship to be experienced.

 

d.

The nature of duties expected.


 

e.

The expected duration of duty at the location.

 

f.

Any other factors relevant to the location.

4.

Leave and travel leave provisions do not apply under this clause.

 

Hardship allowance is not payable to a member for a period when any of the following conditions applies.

 

a.

They are not entitled to salary.

 

b.

They are absent from the location, except as provided in clause 16.2.8.

 

c.

They are entitled to an allowance for an overseas deployment and the member's partner is not living in a hardship location where the member was on long-term posting before their deployment.

 

If a member is eligible for a hardship allowance for more than one location at the same time, they will only receive the hardship allowance paid at the highest applicable rate.

 

This table shows the hardship allowance payable when a member is temporarily absent from their location on duty or recreation leave.

 

Item

If a member...

then they are...

1.

is on a long-term posting

entitled to hardship allowance for the first 28 days of a temporary absence.

2.

is on short-term duty

not entitled to hardship allowance.

3.

has dependants remaining at the location while they are absent

entitled to hardship allowance while the member is absent.

 

 

The purpose of additional recreation leave is to enable members at hardship locations to do two things.

 

a.

Obtain relief from the environment.

 

b.

Access suitable shopping and medical facilities.

1.

This Part applies to eligible members serving at a location shown in Annex 16.A.

2.

For specific information about eligibility for recreation leave, see the appropriate Chapters.

See: ADF members – Chapter 5 Part 2, Recreation leave

 

This Part does not apply to a member on short-term duty at a location for less than 28 days.

See also: Chapter 12 Part 1 Clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to

1.

A member performing duty at a hardship post is entitled to additional recreation leave. The amount of leave is determined by the location where the member performs duty. The additional leave for each location is set out in Annex 16.A.

2.

The member accrues additional recreation leave up to the annual maximum, on a pro-rata basis for the period of duty at the hardship post. This leave is treated on the same basis as if the member were serving in a remote location in Australia under Chapter 5 Part 2 Division 3, Additional recreation leave.

3.

An amount expressed as a fraction of a week is taken to be expressed as a fraction of five days.

Example: An amount of 1.6 weeks means one week three days.

 

 

Assisted leave travel is provided for members and their dependants living at a hardship location. Its purpose is to enable them to do three things.

 

a.

Travel to a regional leave centre.

 

b.

Take a holiday and access health and shopping facilities not normally available at the hardship location.

 

c.

Obtain relief from the environment.

 

This table defines terms used in this Part and in Annex 16.A.

 

Term

Definition

Australia

A capital city in Australia other than Hobart or Darwin, with the lowest allowable travel cost to a member's posting location.

Regional leave centre

Either Australia or London. The regional leave centre for each hardship location is provided mainly for access to medical and dental treatment and other necessary goods and services. It is shown in column 3 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

Relief leave centre

The relief leave centres for each hardship location are provided mainly for relief from adverse climatic, security and social conditions. They are shown in column 3 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

See: Clause 16.4.6 for more information about the basis for providing leave centres.

 

This Part applies to a member who meets both these conditions.

 

a.

They are on a long-term posting to a location listed in column 1 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A, and

 

b.

They are granted a reasonable period of recreation leave.

 

This Part does not apply to a member on short-term duty.

See also: Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to

 

1.

Eligible members are entitled to be reimbursed the lesser of these amounts.

 

a.

The cost of return travel by the member.

 

b.

The allowable travel cost for return air travel by the member to a leave centre.

2.

In this Part, the allowable travel cost for travel between Islamabad and Karachi is taken to be the class of air travel next above economy class.

3.

Any difference between the actual cost of travel and the allowable travel cost is not 'credit' and cannot be carried over.

 

Example: A member has a travel entitlement from East Timor to Darwin. The CDF approves travel to Brisbane. The member travels to Brisbane on a discount fare of less than half the cost of the member's entitlement to Darwin. The member cannot bank the unused credit to put towards subsequent trips. The relief has taken place and the intent of the policy is met.

 

This table shows examples of situations in which assisted leave travel might be provided.

 

Item

Factor

Reason

To a regional leave centre (either Australia or London)

1.

Inadequate medical or dental facilities

Assisted leave travel is not intended to enable members and dependants to obtain urgent medical attention when they are ill. If it is necessary for the member or dependants to have immediate medical treatment that is not available at the posting location, a medical evacuation is available to the member and dependants.

It may be necessary to leave the posting location to obtain routine dental or medical checkups, or to undergo non-urgent diagnostic testing or treatment.

2.

Lack of shopping facilities

In some posting locations, items such as clothes, recreational and personal items are not readily available.

Assisted leave travel is not intended to be used to buy daily items such as food.

 

To a relief leave centre

3.

Security

Suitable security measures protect members and their dependants.

If serious security problems arise in the community, assisted leave travel may be used to provide temporary relief.

4.

Climate

A posting location is subject to continuous hot or cold weather throughout the year, without any seasonal relief.

5.

Social, economic and cultural reasons

There may be substantial social, economical and cultural differences between a posting location and Australia, which could have an adverse effect on the member and their dependants if there was no ability to use assisted leave travel.

 

1.

The number of trips a member is entitled to for each hardship location is listed in column 3 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A. This Part of the Annex shows the number of trips for each leave centre.

Note: Each trip is to be treated as a separate entitlement.

1A.

The number of trips under subclause 1 is reduced by any trip for which costs are provided under clause 15.3.39.

See: Clause 15.3.39, Additional travel when posting extended

2.

The interval between assisted leave fares in this table is recommended to allow a member to get the most benefit from the trips provided.

3.

For members who have shorter or longer posting periods, this limit is adjusted on a pro rata basis.

See:
Clause 16.4.8, Posting longer than the ordinary posting period, and
Clause 16.4.9, Posting shorter than the ordinary posting period.

4.

A member is not entitled to combine trips under this Part.

 

Example: A member in Fiji has assisted leave travel entitlement to 1 regional trip to Australia and 2 relief trips to Sydney. The member cannot combine the two relief trips to Sydney to take one relief trip to Perth.

1.

This clause applies to a member whose posting to an overseas location extends beyond the ordinary posting period.

 

Related Information:

The ordinary posting period for a location is listed in Annex 16.A, Part 1, Hardship post conditions of service for specific posting locations.

1A.

The number of trips a member may take to leave centres from the member's location may be increased using the formula shown below.

Extra period (months) x (1+Total number of trips under column 3 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A)

Ordinary posting period (months)

1B.

The outcome of the formula in subclause 1A must be rounded to the nearest whole number.

2.

If the number of trips increases, the allowable travel cost for each trip is determined as if the trip was to a leave centre, in the following order.

 

a.

The first additional trip is to the regional leave centre.

 

b.

The next additional trips are to the relief leave centre, until the number of trips for that centre in the ordinary posting period has been used.

 

c.

Subsequent additional trips are to any further relief leave centre applicable for that location, until the number of trips for that centre in the ordinary posting period has been used.

 

d.

Any remaining trips must be worked out in a similar manner, beginning from the regional leave centre in paragraph a, then paragraphs b and c.

 

1.

If a member's posting is shorter than the ordinary posting period, then the number of trips to leave centres are reduced pro-rata using the formula:

 

 

Total number of trips
for the ordinary posting period

x

Reduced posting period (months)
Ordinary posting period (months)

 

The number of trips must be rounded to the nearest whole number.

2.

If the number of trips is reduced, this table shows how the remaining number of trips are to be allocated.

 

Item

If the ordinary posting period has been reduced to a period of...

and there is...

then...

1.

less than 12 months

-

all trips are to be to the relief leave centres for the hardship location.

2.

more than 12 months

a regional leave centre for the hardship location

one trip can be made to the regional leave centre.

Any additional trips are to be made to the relief leave centre.

3.

more than 12 months

no regional leave centre for that posting location shown in Annex 16.A

all trips are to be to the relief leave centre.

 

3.

The amount of assisted leave travel under this clause will not be reduced if the CDF terminates the posting.

4.

The CDF may decide that it would be reasonable not to reduce the amount of assisted leave travel under this clause, if the member terminates the posting. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The circumstances in which the posting was terminated.

 

b.

The period the member has served at the posting location.

 

c.

The ordinary posting period at that location.

 

d.

If the member's service will continue after the posting.

 

e.

Any other factor relevant to the termination of the posting.

 

The member may choose in writing the sequence in which assisted leave fares are taken for the leave centres during the ordinary posting period.

 

1.

If the CDF is satisfied that travel to another country meets the purpose of assisted leave travel, the member may travel to a destination in another country that meets the purpose of assisted leave travel.

2.

The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The purpose of the leave fare.

 

b.

The facilities and environment at the destination.

3.

The Commonwealth will provide assisted leave travel up to the allowable travel cost of the trip the member would otherwise be entitled to under this Part. This is to help the member buy air fares and package deals from any source.

4.

The member will not be reimbursed more than the allowable travel cost for a trip from their hardship location to the relevant leave centre.

See:
Clause 16.4.5, Assisted leave travel
Clause 16.4.12, Proof of travel

1.

Proof of travel is required when either of these conditions applies to a member.

 

a.

They offset the assistance under clause 16.4.11.

 

b.

They are paid for assisted leave travel in advance.

2.

The member must provide written evidence that they and their dependants visited another country while on leave, within two weeks of returning from the leave.

3.

An air ticket is not sufficient evidence. Written evidence may include any of these things.

 

a.

An exit stamp in a passport.

 

b.

An airline boarding pass.

 

c.

Written confirmation from a travel agent.

4.

If written proof is not received, the member will have to repay the full amount of assistance to the Commonwealth, including any advance payments made to the member.

 

 

This example is to illustrate assisted leave travel approved for a 24-month posting.

 

Example scenario: A particular posting location lacks suitable shopping and medical facilities, and has a hostile political regime, where members are subject to constant harassment.

 

It is decided that members require assisted leave travel for all these purposes.

a.   Shopping, once every 12 months.

b.   Medical checkups, once every 12 months.

c.   Relief from the hostile environment, every six months.

 

Result: The result is that the shopping and checkup needs are met by the same trip, which also provides one of the trips for environmental relief.

 

At the end of 24 months, the member has taken these three trips.

a.   One trip to a regional leave centre.

b.   Two trips to a relief leave centre.

1.

If a leave centre ceases to be a suitable leave centre, then an alternative leave centre may be used. This table shows when an alternative leave centre may be used.

 

If the leave centre for a posting location is...

and...

then...

affected by war, civil disorder, natural disaster or a similar event

the CDF is satisfied that the leave centre is temporarily unfit to use

the CDF must substitute a leave centre that is comparable in cost and facilities.

 

2.

In deciding on a substitute leave centre, the CDF must consider if the alternative leave centre will provide the member with these opportunities.

 

a.

Relief from difficult climates and environments.

 

b.

Access to adequate medical, hospital, dental services and facilities.

 

c.

Access to shops selling household and personal items.

3.

Every six months the CDF must review the decision to substitute a leave centre.

 

1.

A member might go on assisted leave travel by private vehicle. This clause shows how to work out the cost of return travel for the purpose of paragraph 16.4.5.1.a.

2.

The cost of return travel by the member is the total of these two amounts.

 

a.

The amount of vehicle allowance that would be payable if the vehicle were being used on official business.

See: Chapter 15 Part 3 Division 4, Vehicle allowances

 

b.

The cost (if any) of transporting the vehicle and occupants for part of the travel. This cost does not include accommodation or meals.

3.

The total under this clause is used in working out how much the member is reimbursed for the assisted leave travel under subclause 16.4.5.1.

 

 

In using assisted leave travel, members may incur accommodation costs on an unavoidable stopover. This can result from the limited choice of direct flights at the hardship location. This Part allows members to be reimbursed the accommodation costs.

 

This table defines terms used in this Part and in Annex 16.A.

 

Term

Definition

Australia

A capital city in Australia other than Hobart or Darwin, with the lowest allowable travel cost to a member's posting location.

Regional leave centre

Either Australia or London. The centres for each hardship location are shown in column 3 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

 

This Part applies to a member who meets both these conditions.

 

a.

They are on a long-term posting to a location listed in column 1 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

 

b.

They are granted a reasonable period of leave.

 

This Part does not apply to a member who meets either of these conditions.

 

a.

They are on short-term duty at a location for less than 28 days.

 

b.

They travel under Part 4 clause 16.4.11 to a location other than a leave centre ('offset travel').

 

See also: Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to

 

Members are responsible for the costs involved with accommodation during assisted leave travel, unless they have an unavoidable stopover.

 

1.

If the CDF is satisfied that a stopover is unavoidable during assisted leave travel, the member and dependants are entitled to be reimbursed for one night's accommodation, meals and incidentals at the stopover location.

2.

The CDF must consider advice from these sources.

 

a.

Defence Travel Services, for travel from Australia.

 

b.

The travel agent contracted by the post, or otherwise Defence Travel Services, for travel to Australia.

3.

The limit of reimbursement is what would have been paid, if the member and dependants had been entitled to travel costs during the stopover under Chapter 13, Short-term duty overseas.

 

Members who on a long-term posting to the hardship location of Papua New Guinea, at a location other than Port Moresby, are entitled to one night's accommodation in Port Moresby, when returning from a leave centre.

 

Excess baggage costs are paid when members and any dependants return on certain assisted leave travel to the posting location. It allows members to transport essential shopping items.

 

This table defines terms used in this Part and in Annex 16.A.

 

Term

Definition

Australia

A capital city in Australia other than Hobart or Darwin, with the lowest allowable travel cost to a member's posting location.

Regional leave centre

Either Australia or London. The centres for each hardship location are shown in column 3 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

 

This Part applies to a member who meets both these conditions:

 

a.

They are on a long-term posting to a location listed in column 1 of Part 1 of Annex 16.A.

 

b.

They are granted a reasonable period of leave.

 

This Part does not apply to a member on short-term duty at a location for less than 28 days.

See also: Chapter 12 Part 1 clause 12.1.2, Member Chapters 12 to 16 do not apply to.

1.

The member and each eligible dependant are entitled to be reimbursed the cost of 12kg or less of excess baggage. This baggage would be brought back to the hardship location by the member from assisted leave travel under this Part.

2.

Excess baggage allowances for each hardship location are shown in Part 1 of Annex 16.A. Refer to the footnotes following the table to work out the allowance for each relevant hardship location.

 

 

A member might be at a posting location when war breaks out, there is civil disorder or a natural disaster or similar event. As a result, normal supplies of goods and services might be disrupted. They may need to pay more for goods and services essential to allow them to stay. This Part is designed to reimburse members for these extra costs. The costs may only be reimbursed to members on long-term posting in some approved situations.

 

This Part applies to a member on a long-term posting. However, it only applies if the member is unable to leave or is required to stay at the posting location after normal supplies are disrupted.

1.

The member may be reimbursed extraordinary costs incurred by the member in buying goods and services. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that the goods and services are essential for the member to remain at the location.

2.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The nature, duration and impact of the disruption to the normal supply of goods and services to the member.

 

b.

The nature and amount of the extraordinary costs incurred by the member.

 

c.

The availability and cost of buying the goods and services from another supplier.

 

d.

The allowances that are already being paid to the member.

 

e.

The extent to which the Commonwealth is already providing the goods and services to the member.

 

f.

The nature and extent of any other help provided to the member to buy goods and services.

 

g.

Any other factor relevant to the extraordinary costs incurred by the member.

 

 

 

A location allowance recognises the hazards of service in a location.

 

This Part applies to a member on a long-term posting in Afghanistan, Iraq or Papua New Guinea.

1.

This clause applies to a member not assigned for duty with a deployment and who meets one of the following categories.

 

a.

They are on long-term posting as the Defence Attaché Kabul.

 

b.

They are on long-term posting as the Defence Attaché Baghdad.

2.

The member is entitled to a special allowance. The allowance is AUD 170.00 a day.

1.

The member's period of unused leave is the recreation leave credit the member accrues but does not take during a long-term posting as the Defence Attaché Kabul or Defence Attaché Baghdad. It is capped at a maximum of the amount of recreation leave that the member accrued over their last 12 months' service at the posting location.

2.

This clause only applies if the CDF decides that the member cannot take some or all of the leave during the posting period, owing to any of the following.

 

a.

Medical or compassionate reasons relating to the member or a dependant resulting in an early end to their posting.

 

b.

They have ceased continuous full-time service (whether in Permanent or Reserve forces).

 

c.

Operational needs.

3.

The CDF may authorise an allowance under clause 16.8.3 to be paid for the period of unused leave taken overseas.

4.

Payment must not be made under this clause for leave taken in Australia after the member returns.

5.

The period of unused leave must not be more than the amount of recreation leave that the member accrued over their last 12 months' service at the posting location.

 

An eligible member receives an attraction allowance at the rate of AUD 10,000 a year.

Note: This amount is subject to income tax.

 

Item

Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4

Column 5

Location

Ordinary posting period (months)

Assisted Leave Travel

Extra leave (days) a year

Hardship post grade

Leave Centres

Leave interval (months)

Excess baggage entitlement

Regional

(no of trips)

Relief

(no of trips)

1A.

Afghanistan - Kabul

12

London 1

Rome 1

4

Yes1

10

F

1.

Cambodia

24

Australia 1

Singapore 3

4.8

Yes1

10

E

2.

Canada –

Cold Lake, Alberta

365

Vancouver 2

8

5

2A.

Canada – Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

365

Vancouver 2

8

5

2B.

Canada – Oromocto

365

Ottawa 2

8

3.

China

24

Australia 1

Singapore 2

6

Regional centre only2

10

D

4.

Cook Islands

24

Australia 1

Auckland 3

4.8

Regional centre only2

10

C

5.

...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.

...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.

Egypt

24

London 1

Rome 2

6

Regional centre only2

9

E

7A.

Ethiopia

24

London 1

Rome 2

6

Regional centre only2

10

E

8.

Fiji

36

Australia 1

Sydney 2

9

Regional centre only2

8

D

8A...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.

India

24

Australia 1

Singapore 1

8

Yes1

10

E

10.

Indonesia

24

Australia 1

Singapore 2

6

 Regional centre only2

10

E

10A.

...

10B...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.

Iraq

12

London 1

Rome 1

4

Yes1

10

F

12.

Israel

24

London 1

Rome 1

8

Regional centre only2

8

C

13.

Japan

36

Australia 1

18

Yes2

8

B

14.

Jordan

24

London 1

Rome 1

8

Regional centre only2

10

D

14A.

Kenya

-

-

-

-

-

8

E

15A.

Korea – Daejeon

24

Australia 1

Singapore 1

8

Regional centre only2

10

C

16.

Korea – Seoul

24

Australia 1

Singapore 1

8

Regional centre only2

10

B

16A.

Kuwait

24

London 1

Rome 1

8

Regional centre only2

10

D

17.

Lebanon

24

London 1

Rome 2

6

Regional centre only2

10

D

18.

Malaysia –

Kuala Lumpur

36

Australia 1

Australia 1

12

Regional centre only2

7

C

19.

Malaysia –

other locations

36

Australia 1

Australia 1

12

Regional centre only2

8

C

20.

Marshall Islands

24

Australia 1

Honolulu 3

4.8

Yes1

9

D


Item

Column 1

Column 2

Column 3

Column 4

Column 5

Location

Ordinary posting period (months)

Assisted Leave Travel

Extra leave (days) a year

Hardship post grade

Leave Centres

Leave interval (months)

Excess baggage entitlement

Regional

(no of trips)

Relief

(no of trips)

21.

Micronesia

24

Australia 1

Sydney 1

Guam 1

6

Regional centre only2

10

D

21A.

Myanmar

24

Australia 1

Singapore 3

4.8

Yes1

10

E

22.

Pakistan

24

Australia 2

Singapore 2

6

Regional centre only2

10

F

23.

Palau

24

Australia 1

Singapore 3

4.8

Yes1

10

D

23A.

Papua New Guinea – Lae

24

Australia 1

Brisbane 1

Cairns 2

4.8

Yes1

10

F

24.

Papua New Guinea – other locations

24

Australia 1

Brisbane 1

Cairns 2

4.8

Yes4

10

E

26.

Samoa

24

Australia 1

Auckland 1

8

Yes1

10

D

27.

Saudi Arabia

24

London 1

Rome 3

4.8

Regional centre only2

10

E

27A.

Senegal

12

Australia 1

London 1

4

Yes 1

10

E

28.

Singapore

36

Perth 1

18

No

5

B

29.

Solomon Islands

24

Australia 1

Brisbane 3

4.8

Yes1

10

E

29A.

Sri Lanka

24

Australia 1

Singapore 2

6

Yes1

9

E

30.

Syria

24

London 1

Rome 2

6

Yes1

10

F

31.

Thailand

24

Australia 1

Singapore 1

8

Regional centre only2

7

C

31A.

Timor-Leste – Dili

24

Australia 2

Singapore 2

Darwin 2

3.4

Regional centre only2

10

E

31B.

...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32.

Tonga

24

Australia 1

Auckland 1

Sydney 1

6

Regional centre only2

10

D

32A.

Timor-Leste – other locations

24

Australia 2

Singapore 2

Darwin 2

3.4

Regional centre only2

10

E

33.

Tuvalu

12

Australia 1

Sydney 1

4

Yes1

10

E

33A.

Turkey

24

London 1

Australia 1

8

Regional centre only2

9

D

33B.

Uganda

24

London 1

Rome 2

6

Regional centre only2

10

E

34.

United Arab Emirates

24

London 1

Rome 2

6

No

8

C

34a.

USA – Guam

24

Brisbane 1

6

Yes1

6

B

35.

Vanuatu

24

Australia 1

Brisbane 1

8

Regional centre only2

8

D

36.

Vietnam

24

Australia 1

Singapore 2

6

Yes1

10

D

 

Footnotes 1-4 in the above table refer to the excess baggage assistance provided.

See: 16.6 Excess baggage

1

Provided on all assisted leave return air travel.

2

Provided on each occasion from the regional leave centre only during a period of posting.

3

Provided on each occasion from the regional leave centre; on one occasion from the relief centre of Sydney; and on nil occasions from the relief centre of Nadi, during a period of posting.

4

Provided on each occasion from the regional leave centre; on each occasion from the relief centre of Brisbane; and on nil occasions from the relief centre of Cairns, during a period of posting.

The following footnote in the above table refers to the assisted leave travel provided.

5

For the purposes of calculating assisted leave travel for Cold Lake and Moose Jaw, the ordinary period of posting is based on 24 months instead of 36 months.

 

Item

Location

Extra leave (days)

Hardship post grade

1.

Bahrain

-

C

2.

Belgrade

8

D

3.

Brunei

8

D

4.

Gaza Strip

8

F

5.

Iran

10

E

6.

...

 

 

7.

Laos

10

E

7A.

Nauru

8

D

8.

Nepal

10

F

9.

South Africa

6

C

 

 

This Chapter contains legislation and guidelines for warlike and non-warlike deployments.

 

This Chapter includes the following Parts:

 

Part 1

Overview

 

Part 2

Eligibility to receive conditions of service

 

Part 3

Conditions of service – overview

 

Part 3A

Australians dangerously ill scheme – overseas

 

Part 4

Warlike deployment – less than six months – conditions of service

 

Part 5

Warlike deployment – six months or longer – conditions of service

 

Part 6

Non-warlike deployment – less than six months – conditions of service

 

Part 7

Non-warlike deployment – six months or longer – conditions of service

 

Part 8

Third-country deployments

 

Part 9

Allowances and leave

 

 

The purpose of this Chapter is to provide for and inform members about conditions of service for deployments. The purpose of these conditions of service is to compensate members for additional disabilities or hardships that they are likely to experience.

 

This table defines terms used in this Chapter.

 

Term

Definition in this Chapter

Assigned for duty

Assigned by an authorised officer of the ADF for warlike or non-warlike service.

Hospital treatment

The period in which the member is accommodated in a defence or civilian hospital for the purposes of medical or nursing care of an illness or injury sustained during eligible duty.

 

 

See also:
Chapter 12 Part 3, Definitions for Chapters 12 to 17
Chapter 1 Part 3, Definitions – general

 

This Chapter applies to members on warlike and non-warlike deployments.

 

This Chapter does not apply to a member serving overseas on peacetime service, a long-term posting or short-term duty.

 

Exception: Members who meet the conditions in clauses 13.1.4 or 15.1.6 may be eligible for the conditions set out in Part 3A of this Chapter.

See:
Chapter 13 Part 1 clause 13.1.4, Member on short-term duty ill or injured
Chapter 15 Part 1 clause 15.1.6, Member on long-term duty ill or injured
Part 3A, Australians dangerously ill scheme – overseas

 

 

The purpose of this Part is to describe who is eligible to receive conditions of service for deployment.

1.

Members with diplomatic status are not eligible for conditions of service for deployments within their area of accreditation.

Example: Defence Attachés.

2.

These members may be eligible for long-term posting or short-term duty conditions of service.

 

See also: Part 1 clause 17.1.4, Member this Chapter does not apply to

1.

A member may be eligible for benefits under this Chapter, for the period that applies to the member in the following table.

 

Item

A member of the...

is eligible for benefits under this Part for...

1.

Permanent Forces

the period for which the member is assigned for duty as part of the deployed force and performs that duty.

2.

Reserves

a. if the member transferred to continuous full-time service before deploying — the period for which the member is assigned for duty as part of the deployed force and performs that duty.

b. if CDF grants a member permission to be deployed while on Reserve service — the period for which the member is assigned for duty as part of the deployed force and performs that duty.

 

2.

Before granting permission under item 2.b. of the preceding table, the CDF must consider all of the following factors.

 

a.

The effect on the member of deploying on continuous full-time service.

 

b.

Any other factor relevant to the member's service.

 

Related Information: Reserve medical officers may also qualify for civil practice support allowance.

See: Chapter 17 Part 9 Division 4, Civil practice support allowance

 

 

The ADF pay structure comprises a basic salary supplemented by work-related allowances. The basic salary, determined by the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal, compensates a member for peacetime work. For United Nations or other multi-national force deployments, a special conditions of service package compensates members for additional hardships that they are likely to experience.

1.

This clause applies to members travelling to, on or from warlike or non-warlike deployments.

2.

Other provisions about class of air travel do not apply to members who travel in an aircraft owned or chartered by the Commonwealth. The travel arrangements are as provided on board the aircraft.

3.

If members travel by commercial air service, they are entitled to travel in the class that corresponds to their rank, as follows.

 

a.

For a member who holds the rank of Brigadier or higher –– business class.

 

b.

For a member who holds the rank of Colonel or lower — economy class.

Exception: The CDF may authorise the member to travel business class. Approval may only be given if the CDF is satisfied that there are special circumstances that require the member to travel business class.

4.

The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

If the member is a member of a group, unit or headquarters travelling at the same time, for the same or a similar purpose.

 

b.

The nature of the duties (if any) being undertaken in the course of the travel.

 

c.

The member’s health.

 

d.

The status and class of air travel entitlement of a person the member is required to accompany during the air travel in the course of duty.

 

1.

The Australians dangerously ill scheme is activated when a member or a cadet is hospitalised with a very serious or serious illness or injury.

2.

This scheme provides support to a hospitalised eligible person by arranging a visit from an approved person at Commonwealth expense.

 

The purpose of this Part is to provide the support of an approved visitor to an eligible person who is hospitalised overseas with a very serious or serious illness. The visit from an approved visitor is for the benefit of the eligible person.

 

Note: Chapter 9 Part 3 Division 7A sets out the provisions for eligible persons who are hospitalised in Australia with a very serious or serious illness.

See: Chapter 9 Part 3 Division 7A, Australians dangerously ill scheme – within Australia

 

This table defines terms used in this Part.

 

Term

Definition in this Division

Approved cadet activity

An activity or training in accordance with Departmental policies and guidelines.

Approved period

The period decided under clause 17.3A.7 for benefits to assist the approve visitor to visit the eligible person under this Part.

Approved visitor

A person who has been approved to visit a member who is in hospital at Commonwealth expense.

Cadet

Means an officer, instructor or cadet in the Australian Army Cadets, the Australian Navy Cadets or the Australian Air Force Cadets.

See: Section 58A of the Defence Act 1903

Hospital

A military health care facility, public or private hospital or psychiatric facility.

Medical authority

A person who is a qualified medical practitioner responsible for determining the medical condition of the eligible person.

Serious illness

Means the same as item 2 of the table in clause 1.3.67A, Serious illness.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 1 clause 1.3.67A, Serious illness

Very serious illness

Has the meaning as in clause 1.3.72A, Very serious illness.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 1 clause 1.3.72A, Very serious illness

 

1.

The CDF may approve a person as eligible for support under this Part when they meet all of the following conditions.

 

a.

The eligible person is one of the following.

 

i.

A member of the Permanent Force.

 

ii.

A member of the Reserve Forces on continuous full-time service.

 

iii.

A member of the Reserve Forces who falls ill or is injured while on duty or in uniform.

 

iv.

A cadet who falls ill or is injured while undertaking an approved cadet activity.

 

b.

The medical authority has recommended that a visit will benefit the eligible person in any of the following circumstances.

 

i.

The eligible person has been classified as very seriously ill and is likely to remain so, or may die within the next 72 hours.

 

ii.

The eligible person has been classified as seriously ill.

 

iii.

The eligible person has been classified as suffering a serious medical condition and is hospitalised outside of the deployment or posting location to receive specialist treatment.

 

iv.

The eligible person is under 18 years old and requires medical treatment.

Note: A member under 18 years old does not have to meet the very seriously ill or seriously ill classification to be eligible for a visit under this Part.

 

 

Example: A 15 year old cadet is on an approved cadet activity in New Zealand. He becomes ill with a medical condition and requires treatment. Although the illness is not classified as a very serious or serious illness the medical authority believes the cadet would benefit from having support from a parent. The cadet's parents live in Sydney and one parent is approved as a visitor to travel to visit the cadet.

 

c.

The eligible person is overseas.

2.

The CDF may approve a member on leave overseas as eligible for support under this Part if the member meets the criteria under subclause 1.

 

This Part does not provide a visit at Commonwealth expense when the visitor is in the location where the eligible person is in hospital.

 

Example: A member who is posted to Washington DC becomes seriously ill and is in hospital. The member's partner lives in Washington with the member. Support under this Part is not provided.

 

1.

The CDF may approve one of the following persons as the approved visitor to visit the eligible person at Commonwealth expense.

 

a.

A person identified by the eligible person and recorded on PMKeyS as the primary emergency contact in the event of a casualty.

 

b.

The spouse or partner of the eligible person.

 

c.

A dependant of the eligible person.

 

d.

A parent of the eligible person, if the eligible person has no dependants recognised under clause 1.3.76.

Note: A parent of an eligible person may include, but is not limited to, any of the following people.
i. A biological parent.
ii. An adoptive parent.
iii. A foster parent.
iv. A step-parent.

 

e.

A child of the eligible person.

Note: This child is not necessarily a recognised 'dependent'.

Example: The member has a child who lives with the member's former partner. The child has not been recognised as a dependent for pay and conditions purposes as the child does not live with the member.

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2 clause 1.3.78, Dependent children

 

f.

A guardian of cadet.

See: Section 4 of the Family Law Act 1975 for the definition of guardian

 

See: Chapter 1 Part 3 Division 2, Definitions – Dependants

2.

The approved visitor must meet both of the following conditions.

 

a.

They meet either of the following conditions.

 

i.

They normally live in Australia.

 

ii.

They live in the overseas posting location with the member as the member's spouse or partner.

Example: The member has a partner who is not a resident of Australia and who they met overseas. The partner lives with the member as a de facto partner in the overseas posting location.

 

b.

They must be fit to travel.

Note: An approved visitor who has a medical condition that may be affected by travel must obtain written certification from a qualified medical practitioner that they are fit to travel.

3.

If the approved visitor is incapable or unable to travel and provide support to the eligible person, the approved visitor may nominate another person from one of the classes in subclause 1 to be considered.


4.

In exceptional circumstances, the CDF may approve any of the following people to accompany the approved visitor.

 

a.

A second parent of the eligible person.

 

b.

One or more children of the eligible person.

 

c.

An escort for the eligible person's child.

 

d.

A carer of the approved visitor.

 

e.

A second guardian of a cadet.

1.

The eligible person may have a visit at Commonwealth expense from an approved visitor for a period of up to seven consecutive days.

Note: The seven consecutive days is inclusive of the return travel time.

2.

The CDF may approve additional benefits in relation to a visit when both of the following apply.

 

a.

The medical authority recommends that a longer period will significantly benefit the eligible person

 

b.

One of the circumstances in the following table applies.

 

Item

Length of recommended visit...

when...

1.

up to 21 consecutive days

the eligible person has had major surgery and the post operative recovery is to last longer than seven consecutive days.

the eligible person is undergoing specialist treatment in hospital that will last longer than seven consecutive days.

2.

21 or more consecutive days

the eligible person has been assessed by the medical authority as likely to remain very seriously ill or seriously ill for longer than 21 consecutive days.

 

 

See also: Clause 17.3A.14, When an eligible person's condition changes

 

An eligible person ceases to be eligible for assistance under this Division from the day they are provided a sustainable welfare management plan. This does not affect the return travel benefit for any approved visitor.

See: Regulation 58F of the Defence Force Regulations 1952, Provision of medical and dental treatment

 

Note: A sustainable welfare management plan to assist the eligible person is normally developed if the eligible person requires any of the following beyond 21 consecutive days.

 

a.

Long term specialist treatment.

 

b.

Palliative care.

 

c.

Long term rehabilitation as an inpatient.

 

An approved visitor may be provided with the following assistance under this Part.

 

a.

Travel insurance, documentation and vaccinations.

See: Clause 17.3A.10, Travel insurance, documentation and vaccinations

 

b.

Travel.

See: Clause 17.3A.11, Assistance with overseas travel

 

c.

Accommodation.

See: Clause 17.3A.12, Assistance with accommodation

 

d.

Meals.

See: Clause 17.3A.13, Assistance with meals

1.

Travel costs for the approved visitor are provided to a similar standard as for official Defence travel.

2.

The approved visitor will receive official overseas travel insurance, including medical insurance, at Commonwealth expense.

3.

All costs associated with the application for a passport and any visas, including passport photos, are reimbursed to the approved visitor at Commonwealth expense on the production of receipts.

4.

If a country requires the approved visitor to have vaccinations, the approved visitor is responsible for arranging the vaccinations through a qualified medical practitioner. Any cost for these services which are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance may be reimbursed to the approved visitor.

1.

Travel assistance for the approved visitor is only provided at Commonwealth expense in relation to a location where both of the following conditions are met.

 

a.

Any security risk is considered to be minimal.

 

b.

The location is accessible by public transport.

 

Note: Only requests for travel to a location outside of an area of operation should be made under the Australians dangerously ill scheme.

2.

The approved visitor may be provided with return business class air travel at Commonwealth expense.

3.

If air travel is not available to the location, other modes of transport, such as rail or road, may be provided at Commonwealth expense.

4.

If the approved visitor arranges their own travel prior to the visit being approved, the CDF may approve the reimbursement of the lesser of the following costs.

 

a.

The amount incurred by the approved visitor, on the production of receipts.

 

b.

The amount that would have been incurred if the visit had been arranged by the Defence Community Organisation.


5.

Transport between the following locations should be by taxi. The costs may be reimbursed to the approved visitor on the production of receipts.

 

a.

The eligible person's hospital.

 

b.

The approved visitor's accommodation.

 

c.

The airport, bus or train terminal.

 

d.

The approved visitor's home.

6.

The CDF may only approve the reimbursement of the lesser of the following travel costs incurred outside the approved period if the approved visitor has stayed beyond the approved period.

 

a.

The cost of the return journey incurred by the approved visitor. The approved visitor must produce receipts for the travel to allow for reimbursement.

 

b.

The normal departmental liability that would have been incurred if the return journey had been arranged by the Defence Community Organisation.

1.

Accommodation at Commonwealth expense must be arranged by the Military Support Officer for the approved visitor at the location where the eligible person is in hospital.

2.

The accommodation is to be within a reasonable distance from the hospital where the eligible person is located, if practicable.

3.

The approved visitor may choose to stay beyond the approved period. However, the cost of accommodation occupied after the approved period will not be reimbursed.

Exception: Subclause 17.3A.14.2, When an eligible person's condition changes

1.

The approved visitor may be reimbursed reasonable costs for meals on production of receipts.

Exception: The approved visitor is not entitled to reimbursement for any alcoholic beverages purchased.

2.

The approved visitor may choose to stay beyond the approved period. However, the cost of meals consumed after the approved period will not be reimbursed.

Exception: Subclause 17.3A.14.2, When an eligible person's condition changes

1.

If an eligible person's condition improves and their condition is no longer classified by a medical authority as very seriously ill or seriously ill, the benefits provided under this Part cease 24 hours after the approved person is informed of the eligible person's reclassification.

2.

The CDF may approve an extension of the period for which benefits provided under this Part when both of the following conditions are met.

 

a.

The approved visitor has made reasonable efforts to arrange return travel within the 24 hours.


 

b.

Return travel is unavailable due to circumstances beyond the approved visitor's control.

Examples: Some circumstances beyond an approved visitor's control can include, but are not limited to, airline strikes, weather delays and sold out flights.

3.

The CDF may approve another visit for an eligible person. The eligible person must meet all of the following conditions.

 

a.

The eligible person was previously classified by a medical authority as no longer very seriously ill or seriously ill.

 

b.

The eligible person is reclassified as very seriously or seriously ill.

 

This Part is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of the range of benefits applicable to members on a warlike deployment of less than six months. The benefits are authorised under other Parts of this Chapter, and under other Commonwealth legislation.

This Part is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of the range of benefits applicable to members on a warlike deployment of six months or longer. The benefits are authorised under other Parts of this Chapter, and under other Commonwealth legislation.

 

1.

This clause applies to a member who meets all the following conditions.

 

a.

The member is living in.

 

b.

The member is deployed for service on a warlike deployment for six months or longer.

 

c.

The member meets either of the following conditions.

 

i.

The member is a member without dependants.

 

ii.

The member is a member with dependants (unaccompanied).

2.

The member may access the benefits referred to in the following table. 

 

Item

Condition

Reference

1.

The member may choose between the following options.

a. To stay in living-in accommodation.

b. To leave living-in accommodation, and get a variety of removal and storage conditions.

Clause 7.3.23, Living-in accommodation on deployment– six months or longer

 

Conditions for member who chooses to stay

 

2.

The member may be directed to leave the living-in accommodation. The member then becomes eligible for the same conditions as a member who chose to leave.

Subclause 7.3.23.5

3.

The member does not have to pay a contribution for living in.

Clause 7.3.32

 

Conditions for member who chooses to leave

 

4.

The member may have a removal of furniture and effects to storage.

Clause 6.6.32A 

5.

A member without dependants may have personal effects, a vehicle and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Item 6, subclause 6.6.46.1

6.

A member with dependants (unaccompanied) may have furniture, effects, a vehicle and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Clause 6.6.45A

7.

The member may have loss on sale of a vehicle and a towable item, unless they have chosen to put them in storage.

Subclause 6.3.4.1

8.

A member who stores their vehicle somewhere other than commercial storage may be paid vehicle allowance, or the cost of storage.

Clause 9.6.16A

9.

The member may be paid disturbance allowance for the journey from storage to living-in accommodation at the end of their deployment.

Clause 6.1.15, table item 2

 

1.

This clause applies to a member who meets all the following conditions.

 

a.

The member is living out.

 

b.

The member is deployed for service on a warlike deployment for six months or longer.

 

c.

The member meets either of the following conditions.

 

i.

The member is a member without dependants.

 

ii.

The member is a member with dependants (unaccompanied).

2.

The member may access the benefits referred to in the following table. 

 

Item

Condition

Reference

1.

The member may choose between the following options.

a. To stay in living-out accommodation.

b. To leave living-out accommodation, and get a variety of removal and storage conditions.

For rent allowance – clause 7.6.28A

 

For Service residences – clause 7.5.36A

 

Conditions for member who chooses to stay

 

2.

The member does not have to pay a contribution.

Member without dependants – 

for Service residences – clause 7.5.43A, table item 4

for Choice Accommodation – 7.5A.23

for rent allowance – paragraph 7.6.18.c

 

Member with dependants (unaccompanied) –

for Service residences –  clause 7.5.43

for Choice Accommodation – 7.5A.23

for rent allowance – subclause 7.6.17.1, Exception 2

3.

A member in rented accommodation may allow a house-sitter to stay. If the member charges rent, the member will be treated as someone who has sublet the home.

Clause 7.6.20A

4.

...

 

5.

...

 


Item

Condition

Reference

 

Conditions for member who chooses to leave

 

6.

The member may have a removal of furniture and effects to storage.

Clause 6.6.32A 

7.

A member without dependants may have personal effects, a car and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Item 6, subclause 6.6.46.1

8.

A member with dependants (unaccompanied) may have personal effects, a car and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Clause 6.6.45A

9.

The member may have loss on sale of a car and a towable item, unless they have chosen to put them in storage.

Subclause 6.3.4.1

10.

A member who stores their car somewhere other than commercial storage may be paid vehicle allowance, or the cost of storage.

Clause 9.6.16

11.

The member may be paid disturbance allowance.

Clause 6.1.13.

This Part is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of the range of benefits applicable to members on a non-warlike deployment of less than six months. The benefits are authorised under other Parts of this Chapter, and under other Commonwealth legislation.

 

This Part is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of the range of benefits applicable to members on a non-warlike deployment of six months or longer. The benefits are authorised under other Parts of this Chapter, and under other Commonwealth legislation.

 

1.

This clause applies to a member who meets all the following conditions.

 

a.

The member is living in.

 

b.

The member is deployed for service on a non-warlike deployment for six months or longer.

 

c.

The member meets either of the following conditions.

 

i.

The member is a member without dependants.

 

ii.

The member is a member with dependants (unaccompanied).

2.

The member may access the benefits referred to in the following table. 

 

Item

Condition

Reference

1.

The member may choose between the following options.

a. To stay in living-in accommodation.

b. To leave living-in accommodation, and get a variety of removal and storage conditions.

Clause 7.3.23, Living-in accommodation on deployment– six months or longer

 

Conditions for member who chooses to stay

 

2.

The member may be directed to leave the living-in accommodation. The member then becomes eligible for the same conditions as a member who chose to leave.

Subclause 7.3.23.5

3.

The member does not have to pay a contribution for living in.

Clause 7.3.32

 

Conditions for member who chooses to leave

 

4.

The member may have a removal of furniture and effects to storage.

Clause 6.6.32A 

5.

A member without dependants may have f effects, a vehicle and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Item 6, subclause 6.6.46.1

6.

A member with dependants (unaccompanied) may have furniture, effects, a vehicle and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Clause 6.6.45A

7.

The member may have loss on sale of a vehicle and a towable item, unless they have chosen to put them in storage.

Subclause 6.3.4.1

8.

A member who stores their vehicle somewhere other than commercial storage may be paid vehicle allowance, or the cost of storage.

Clause 9.6.16A

9.

The member may be paid disturbance allowance for the journey from storage to living-in accommodation at the end of their deployment.

Clause 6.1.15, table item 2

 

 

1.

This clause applies to a member who meets all the following conditions.

 

a.

The member is living out.

 

b.

The member is deployed for service on a non-warlike deployment for six months or longer.

 

c.

The member meets either of the following conditions.

 

i.

The member is a member without dependants.

 

ii.

The member is a member with dependants (unaccompanied).

2.

The member may access the benefits referred to in the following table. 

 

Item

Condition

Reference

1.

The member may choose between the following options.

a. To stay in living-out accommodation.

b. To leave living-out accommodation, and get a variety of removal and storage conditions.

For rent allowance – clause 7.6.28A

 

For Service residences – clause 7.5.36A

 

Conditions for member who chooses to stay

 

2.

The member does not have to pay a contribution.

Member without dependants – 

for Service residences –  clause 7.5.43A, table item 4

for Choice Accommodation – 7.5A.23

for rent allowance –  paragraph 7.6.18.c

 

Member with dependants (unaccompanied) – 

for Service residences –  clause 7.5.43

for Choice Accommodation – 7.5A.23

for rent allowance – subclause 7.6.17.1, Exception 2

3.

A member in rented accommodation may allow a house-sitter to stay. If the member charges rent, the member will be treated as someone who has sublet the home.

Clause 7.6.20A

4.

...

 

5.

...

 

 

Conditions for member who chooses to leave

 

6.

The member may have a removal of furniture and effects to storage.

Clause 6.6.32A 

7.

A member without dependants may have personal effects, a car and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Item 6, subclause 6.6.46.1


Item

Condition

Reference

8.

A member with dependants (unaccompanied) may have personal effects, a car and a towable item stored at Commonwealth expense.

Clause 6.6.45A

9.

The member may have loss on sale of a car and a towable item, unless they have chosen to put them in storage.

Subclause 6.3.4.1

10.

A member who stores their car somewhere other than commercial storage may be paid vehicle allowance, or the cost of storage.

Clause 9.6.16

11.

The member may be paid disturbance allowance.

Clause 6.1.13.

 

 

This Part is reserved for publication in the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual of an administrative description of the range of benefits applicable to members on deployment with the armed forces of another country.

 

This Part deals with the allowances and leave for overseas warlike and non-warlike deployments.

 

This Part includes the following Divisions and Annexes.

 

Division 1

Deployment allowance

 

Division 2

...

 

Division 3

...

 

Division 4

Civil practice support allowance

 

Division 5

Non-warlike deployments – additional recreation leave

 

Division 6

Relief out-of-country travel fare assistance

 

Annex 17.9.A

...

 

Annex 17.9.B

...

 

Annex 17.9.C

...

 

 

The purpose of deployment allowance is to compensate members for the hazard, stress and environmental factors that they are likely to experience over the term of a warlike or non-warlike deployment.

 

The following table defines terms that are used in this Division.

 

Term

Definition in this Division

Specified area

The area where the nature of service applies as declared by the Minister for Defence under section 5C of the Veterans Entitlements Act 1986.

Threat level

The level of:

a. operational threat, and

b. environmental hazards.

1.

Deployment allowance is payable to a member who meets both of the following conditions.

 

a.

The member is assigned for duty on a warlike or non-warlike deployment.

 

b.

The member enters the specified area for the deployment.

2.

If no specified area is prescribed, deployment allowance is payable to a member who performs duty while assigned to an operation that is prescribed under section 5C of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986.

 

Note: A member who is not eligible for pay due to Part 13 of the Defence Force Regulations 1952 or section 99 or 100 of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982, may not be eligible to deployment allowance.

See also:
Regulation 68 of the Defence Force Regulations 1952
Sections 99 and 100 of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982
Chapter 3 Part 6, Salary and allowances when a member is absent without leave, in civil custody or undergoing a period of detention or imprisonment

 

1.

The rate of deployment allowance relevant to a member is the rate specified for the member's deployment in the following table.

 

Item

Operation

Specified area

Daily rate of allowance AUD

1.

ACCORDION

Bahrain, Qatar and United Arab Emirates

83.77

2.

MANITOU

The seas and superjacent airspace of:

  1. The Arabian Sea;
  2. The Gulf of Aden;
  3. The Gulf of Aqaba;
  4. The Gulf of Oman;
  5. The Gulf of Suez;
  6. The Persian Gulf;
  7. The Red Sea;
  8. The Indian Ocean north of Latitude 15 degrees South and west of Longitude 68 degrees East;

This includes the ports adjacent and the area within a 10 kilometre radius of each port.

83.77

3.

MAZURKA

Egypt between the east bank of the Suez Canal and the international boundary between Egypt and Israel established by the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel signed in Washington on 26 March 1997, and an adjoining area extending 5 km into Israel.

130.64

4.

PALADIN

Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Lebanon

83.77

Syria

153.77

5.

ASLAN

South Sudan

153.77

6.

OKRA

Iraq

153.77

Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, the Persian Gulf, Cyprus, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Montenegro, Poland and Romania.

83.77

7.

HIGHROAD

Afghanistan

153.77

8.

PALATE II

Afghanistan

153.77

9.

AUGURY

Jordan

83.77

10.

Any other operation in accordance with subclause 17.9.5.2

Not applicable.

A rate approved by the Minister for Defence that is between 48.41 and 230.62.

 

 

Note: Where a country is mentioned, it includes its land territory, territorial waters and superjacent airspace, unless specified otherwise.


2.

While on a deployment, a member is taken not to be overseas for conditions of service purposes.

Note: This means they cannot receive the overseas allowances and benefits that members on long-term or short-term duty overseas get.

 

Exception 1: A member may receive some long-term posting overseas benefits if their dependants have remained in an overseas posting location while the member is deployed.

See:
Chapter 14, Relocating to or from a long-term overseas posting
Chapter 15, Living and working on long-term posting overseas
Chapter 16, Overseas hardship locations

 

Exception 2: A member may be paid overseas travel costs on days for which they pay for their own accommodation or meals.

See: Chapter 13 Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

 

Deployment allowance is payable at the relevant rate in clause 17.9.6, for each day the member is in the specified area during the following period.

 

a.

Starting on the day the member first enters the specified area for the deployment to which they are assigned.

 

b.

Ceasing on the day after the member leaves the specified area of the deployment they are assigned to for the last time on that deployment.

Exception: See subclause 17.9.8.3, Breaks in service, for when a member leaves the specified area for a reason which is not related to the deployment.

1.

If the member temporarily leaves the specified area during their deployment for either of the following reasons, the member continues to receive deployment allowance at the rate for the operation they are assigned to.

 

a.

Operational reasons related to the deployment.

Examples: Escort duties, attendance at a board of inquiry.

 

b.

Recreation or war service leave.

 

Example: A member on deployment is required to attend a board of inquiry. The payment of deployment allowance continues for the period the member is outside of the specified area.

See also: Clause 17.9.9, for when a member has been eligible for multiple rates during their deployment.

Related information: Clause 17.9.35 provides that this leave is taken to be continuous for deployment allowance purposes.

See: Division 5, Non-warlike deployments – additional recreation leave


2.

After the period of temporary absence under subclause 1, the rate of deployment allowance payable is the rate for the specified area the member is deployed to on return.

 

Example: A member is assigned to Operation PALADIN and has spent one month in Jordan and two months in Syria before going back to Jordan. The member goes on leave and receives the rate of deployment allowance payable for Syria for the period of leave. When the member returns from leave they are deployed in Jordan, the rate payable on return is the rate payable for Jordan.

3.

If the member leaves the specified area for a reason which is not related to the deployment, the payment of deployment allowance ceases on the day after the member leaves the specified area and recommences if the member returns to the specified area.

 

Example: A member on deployment is granted compassionate leave to return to Australia to visit a close relative who is very seriously ill. Deployment allowance is not paid during the time the member is outside of the specified area.

1.

This clause applies to a member who is in either of the following situations.

 

a.

The member is assigned to an operation with more than one rate of deployment allowance.

 

b.

The member is assigned to more than one operation, for which there are different rates of deployment allowance.

2.

If the member temporarily leaves the specified area for a reason in subclause 17.9.8.1, then the rate of deployment allowance payable during their period of absence is the highest rate that has been payable to the member during their deployment.

 

Example 1: A member is assigned to Operation PALADIN and has spent two months in Jordan. The member goes on leave and receives the rate of deployment allowance payable for Jordan.

 

Example 2: A member is assigned to Operation MANITOU and Operation OKRA (Iraq) and has spent two months on Operation MANITOU. The member has not spent any time in Iraq. The member goes on leave and receives the rate of deployment allowance payable for Operation MANITOU.

 

Example 3: A member is assigned to Operation PALADIN and has spent one month in Jordan and two months in Syria before going back to Jordan. The member goes on leave and receives the rate of deployment allowance payable for Syria.

 

Example 4: A member is assigned to Operation MANITOU and Operation OKRA (Iraq) and has spent one month on Operation MANITOU and two months in Iraq before going back to Operation MANITOU. The member goes on leave and receives the rate of deployment allowance payable for Operation OKRA (Iraq).

 

 

If a member is required to transit through a specified area that is not the specified area for their deployment (the "other area"), the relevant of the following conditions applies.

 

a.

If the member has already been in their specified area and has left it temporarily for one of the reasons under subclause 17.9.8.1, the rate of deployment allowance payable to the member continues to be payable to them while they are in the other area.

 

 

Example: Member travels from Operation MAZURKA (Sinai) to the United Arab Emirates before travelling to Rome on leave. The member spends two days in the United Arab Emirates before their flight leaves for Rome. The member continues to be paid the rate payable for Operation MAZURKA (Sinai).

See: Clause 17.9.8, Breaks in service

 

b.

If the member has not yet arrived in their specified area, deployment allowance is not payable for time spent in the other area.

Note: The member only receives deployment allowance when they meet the criteria under paragraph 17.9.5.1.a.

 

 

Example: A member is on their way to Operation MANITOU where they are being deployed. The member is required to spend a two day stop on transit in the United Arab Emirates, before they travel to arrive in their assigned deployment location. The member does not receive deployment allowance for the two days while they are transiting through the United Arab Emirates.

See: Clause 17.9.5, Member this Division applies to

 

c.

If the member has left their specified area for the last time, deployment allowance is not payable in the other area as they have met the conditions under paragraph 17.9.7.b.

 

 

See also: Subclause 17.9.8.3 for members who leave the specified area for a reason not related to the deployment.

1.

Deployment allowance rates may be reviewed on any of these occasions.

 

a.

Every six months.

 

b.

If forces are rotated.

 

c.

If there is a change in the assessed threat level.

 

d.

If the Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal determines a general salary increase for the ADF.

2.

A member receiving deployment allowance must be made aware by their Commanding Officer that the rate initially determined may be amended and so could increase or decrease during their deployment, as a result of review.

 

 

A member getting deployment allowance may be eligible for additional allowances in the following situations.

 

Item

Allowance

Additional information

1.

Separation allowance

If applicable, separation allowance may be payable.

See: DFRT Determination No. 11 of 2013, ADF allowances, Division B.3

2.

Travel costs

Travel costs are only payable to a member on any day the member has to pay for their own accommodation or meals while on deployment.

See: Chapter 13 Part 3, Travel costs for short-term duty overseas

 

 

 

The purpose of civil practice support allowance is to help medical officers in the Reserves with the costs of maintaining their civil medical practices. It applies while medical officers are on short periods of continuous full-time service with a deployment.

 

This Division applies to a medical officer in the Reserves who volunteers and is assigned for duty with a deployment.

 

The rate of civil practice support allowance for the period of service is AUD 1,600 a week. Both these conditions must be met.

 

a.

The CDF certifies that the member is on a specialist medical roster in support of a deployment or peacetime operation.

 

b.

The member has a functioning civil medical practice.

1.

A period of service is a period of continuous full-time service. The period is for not less than two weeks in an operational area on a deployment.

2.

The allowance is not payable for less than two weeks in any period of service unless the CDF approves payment for a lesser period. The CDF must consider all these criteria.

 

a.

The nature and period of the service.

 

b.

The member's experience, qualifications and skills.

 

c.

The likely benefit to the ADF.

3.

The allowance may be paid for more than one period of service during a deployment.

4.

This subclause applies to a member whose deployment ceases before the end of two weeks or the lesser period of service approved by the CDF under subclause 2. The member is entitled to a portion of the allowance for the period of service completed. However, this only occurs in any of the following situations.

 

a.

The member dies.

 

b.

The member becomes medically unfit and cannot complete the period of service because of physical or mental incapacity not within the member's control.

 

c.

The member cannot complete the period of service for reasons not in the member's control, and the CDF has agreed to that.

5.

While a member is entitled to civil practice support allowance, they are not entitled to any other allowance or reimbursement under Chapters 1 to 17 for any costs they incur in connection with their absence from their civil practice.

 

 

 

The purpose of additional recreation leave for non-warlike deployments is to enable a member to obtain relief from military and environmental hazards in an operational area.

 

This Division applies to a member for any period in which they are deployed to a non-warlike operation.

 

The member accrues additional recreation leave up to a maximum of 10 days a year on a pro-rata basis for the period of their non-warlike deployment.

Related Information: Chapter 5 Part 2 Division 6 explains the administrative arrangements for additional recreation leave.

1.

The member does not accrue extra recreation leave credit for difficult or prolonged duty for any period when they accrue leave credit under this Division.

See: Chapter 5 Part 2 Division 4, Extra recreation leave

2.

Travelling leave taken for relief-out-of-country travel between Australia and a deployment is a non-accruable form of additional recreation leave.

3.

A member's eligibility for payment of deployment allowance and other benefits on travelling leave is not interrupted. Travelling leave occurs in between periods of deployment and other leave types.

See: Division 1, Deployment allowance

 

The purpose of relief out-of-country travel fare assistance is to help the member have time away from the difficulties of a deployment.

1.

Relief out-of-country travel fare assistance provides the member with return travel to an approved destination.

2.

The CDF may approve the destination for relief out-of-country travel fare assistance. The CDF must choose a location that meets both these requirements.

 

a.

A safe environment for rest and recreation.

 

b.

Adequate rest and recreation facilities.

1.

Subject to operational constraints, a member may be granted relief out-of-country travel fare assistance, for return travel to an approved destination, if all these conditions are met.

 

a.

The member is assigned to the deployment for 6 months or more.

Exception: CDF may approve a relief-out-of-country travel fare for a member on a deployment of less than 6 months, having regard to whether the member is performing exceptionally demanding duties, or is likely to serve multiple deployments in a 12 month period.

 

b.

The member travels to a destination approved under clause 17.9.37.

 

c.

The member must be outside the operational area for seven consecutive days or longer.

Example: A member leaves the operational area during four days of recreation leave, two stand-down days and a public holiday.

 

d.

The travel is planned to occur at regular intervals during the deployment, if practicable.

Note: Members must plan the travel to obtain value for money, consistent with the obligations imposed on them by the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013.

2.

The number of times a member may be granted relief out-of-country travel fare assistance depends on the period that they are on deployment for, as described in the table.

 

Item

If it is intended that the member be deployed for this period...

they may be granted up to this many trips for the deployment...

a.

less than six months

0

Exception: If paragraph 17.9.38.1.a. approval is given, 1 trip.

b.

six months but less than nine months

1

c.

nine months but less than 12 months

2

d.

12 months but less than 15 months

3

 

Item

If it is intended that the member be deployed for this period...

they may be granted up to this many trips for the deployment...

e.

15 months but less than 18 months

4

f.

18 months or more

5

 

3.

The member is entitled to relief out-of-country travel fare assistance up to these limits.

 

a.

The cost of return travel to the approved destination under these conditions.

 

i.

It is economy class.

 

ii.

It is on the cheapest available airline that offers a reasonable standard of safety and security.

 

iii.

It does not include any avoidable stopovers.

 

b.

The member is not entitled to travel costs while on relief out of country travel fare assistance.

4.

The member may be provided with travelling leave if they take a relief-out-of-country travel fare to Australia.

Note: If taken on or after 18 February 2011, this type of leave does not attract payment of deployment allowance but it does not break continuity for the payment of those allowances for accrued leave types.

See: Division 1, Deployment allowance

1.

If the CDF is satisfied that travel to another country meets the purpose of relief out-of-country travel fare assistance, the member may travel to a destination in another country that meets the purpose of assistance with relief travel.

2.

The CDF must consider both these criteria.

 

a.

The purpose of the relief travel.

 

b.

The facilities and environment at the destination.

3.

The Commonwealth will provide relief out-of-country travel fare assistance up to the travel cost that the member would otherwise be entitled to under this Division. This is to help the member buy fares from any source.

4.

Allowable offset arrangements are advised at the start of each deployment.

5.

If it is intended that a member stay on deployment for 12 months or more, the member may apply to combine two trips to Australia that they are entitled to under the table in subclause 17.9.38.2, for one of these purposes.

 

a.

To assist the member and their dependants to use relief out-of-country travel fare assistance to reunite, in Australia or in an approved destination.

 

b.

If the member has no dependants (or does not wish to reunite with them), to travel on relief out-of-country travel fare assistance to Australia or another country that is more expensive to travel to than the standard approved destination.

 

Note: The offset can only be used to purchase fares. The alternative location must still be approved under clause 17.9.37.

6.

Proof of travel is required under clause 16.4.12, as if the relief travel were assisted leave travel under Chapter 16 Part 4.