MINISTER for Defence Personnel Darren Chester today announced Defence has extended the use of the ForceNet e-communication platform to Defence family members to improve communication with families.
ForceNet connects registered users within a secure online environment, allowing families to stay up-to-date with the latest information about their member’s unit and other Defence support services.
Mr Chester said Defence understands the unique demands placed on Defence members and their families.
“We acknowledge the positive contribution families make to the morale, performance and retention of Australian Defence Force members and we have an obligation to assist in providing appropriate family support,” Mr Chester said
“Importantly, Defence recognises the need for an effective and secure communications platform to provide a vehicle for ADF leaders, members and their families to connect and share information.
“ForceNet allows Defence families to keep up to date with Defence news, events and information relevant to them, as well as participate in online communities to share information and maintain contact with other family users and Defence leaders.”
National Convenor Defence Families of Australia, Maree Siroris said effective communication contributes to families being ready for the unique Defence life.
“We know they thrive when connected with support services and their Defence community”.
Defence family members can register to use ForceNet at www.forcenet.gov.au. Alternatively, current Defence ForceNet users can invite a family member to register via their ForceNet Profile Page.
Family users will initially become members of the family groups of their sponsor’s parent Service and posted Unit. They will also automatically become members of support agencies such as the Defence Community Organisation and Defence Families of Australia.
ForceNet is owned and operated by the Department of Defence.
Note, access to ForceNet is only available to current Australia Defence Force members, Defence Australian Public Service Members and sponsored Defence families.
