What happens during transition from the ADF?
Leaving the Australian Defence Force is much more than handing in your ID and starting a new job. It’s the beginning of a new chapter for you and your family.
Transition is a journey that involves important decisions about your career, finances, superannuation, health, housing and future goals. While every member’s experience is different, the earlier you start planning, the more prepared you’ll be for life after Defence.
During transition, you’ll work through a range of important milestones, including:
- Understanding your transition timeline and key administrative requirements.
- Attending transition seminars and accessing Defence support services.
- Reviewing your financial position and preparing for changes to your income.
- Understanding what happens to your superannuation and leave entitlements.
- Exploring civilian employment opportunities and recognising your transferable skills.
- Learning about Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) support and veteran entitlements like Permanent Impairment and SRDP.
- Developing a plan that supports both you and your family’s future.
Many members understandably focus on securing their next job. While that’s important, it’s only one part of a successful transition.
The financial decisions you make before leaving Defence can have a lasting impact on your future. Understanding your options now can help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions with confidence.
At CTWealth, we help ADF members understand not only what happens during transition, but what comes next. Our goal is to help you move into civilian life with clarity, confidence and a plan for your future.
We are a listed adviser with the ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre and have assisted Army, Navy and Air Force members across Australia transition confidently into civilian life.
The Defence Force Transition Program (DFTP) provides ADF members with up to $1,000 towards professional financial advice to help plan your transition to civilian life. You can access this funding before your discharge or within 24 months after separating from Defence.
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