With Christmas almost upon us, the festive season will see many of us enjoying time catching up with family and friends. Keep in mind that not all in the Defence Community will be enjoying this period. For some, this becomes a stressful and lonely time of the year. Many Defence families are relocating to a new area for the next posting; some families will have someone close to them away, some may be dealing with loss or caring for someone who is in poor health, or they may be unwell themselves.

Defence families are made up of ordinary Australians. It is important that we keep an eye on our Defence community, understand its challenges, and take care of it to ensure we are nurturing a valuable and necessary part of our society. Whilst we are beginning to understand the impact of defence life on military members, how this effects the family remains an area needing to be explored.

The work being done by researchers connected at AFOM, to understand defence families, to ensure family health and wellbeing is maintained, and suitable programs are in place to provide supportive tools to them, is very valuable in ensuring the health of our current and future generations. It is my wish that the AFOM foundation receives the support it needs to continue its work in this area.

May you find peace and comfort in those around you this Christmas, surrounded by those who treat you well, and may the magic of the season guide you through whatever challenge lies ahead.

Best wishes to you and your families for 2014.

Julie Blackburn

DFA National Convenor

‘Be the change you want to see in the world’  -Gandhi