The group was formed under the patronage of the Chief of Defence Force and the Minister responsible for Defence personnel (1993), but as a specialised support organisation external to Defence. We are an external Not For Profit organization that works closely with ADF special needs families. DSNSG does not have access to PMKEYS, posting information, changes in family details or contact information, so we rely on the families to advise us of any changes. Some Families are still under the impression that we may have access to this information.
It is also important to note that DSNSG National Committee Members meet annually, as a minimum, with the Minister for Defence and Chief of Defence Force.
DNSSG is not a part, nor under the umbrella of DFA, we are a complete different entity.
It is important for the families to contact DSNSG when they are being posted or if any circumstances have changed.Contact the National Coordinator on 1800 037 674 or via email at national.coordinator@dsnsg.org.au
To assist you with your posting you may need one or more of the following:
- Application for Recognition of Special Needs
- Assessment of Assistance on Posting
- Application for Assistance with Respite, Therapy Services,
- Personal Care or Equipment Hire
Note: Changes to the Defence Recognition of Special Needs Application Process – Support to Families with Special Needs
As of 01 July 2010, you now do not need to see a Defence Social Worker to undergo the ‘Recognition of Special Needs Process’ or the ‘Assessment of Assistance on Posting’. Instead, whether applying for special needs recognition, assessment of assistance on posting or therapy services, families will now send their application forms and supporting documentation directly to Defence Community Helpline (defencefamilyhelpline@defence.gov.au) for processing. The process brings only the administrative side of the program into DCO HQ. Professional social work will still be available to special needs families if required.Information detailing the application process is available from the Defence Family Helpline or the DCO website and consist of:
- An information flyer providing broad information on the Program
- Application forms
- A copy of the Member with Dependants with Special Needs determination that provides families with important details regarding the program including eligibility criteria, the roles and responsibilities of DCO staff and definitions.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND CONNECTIONS FOR FAMILIES POSTING
NATIONAL HELPLINES:
Defence Special Needs Support Group Inc 1800 037 674
Defence Community Organisation 1800 624 608
Defence Families Australia 1800 100 509
Kookaburra Kids 1300 566 525 or 02 9525 7474
Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling (VVCS) 1800 011 046
Lifeline 13 11 14
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) 1800 277 328
Autism Advisory and Support Service 02 9601 2844
Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre 1800 052 222
Centrelink Financial Assistance 13 27 17
Housing Support risk of homelessness NSW: 1800 152 152 NT: 1800 682 288 QLD 1800 474 753 SA 1800 003 308 TAS 1800 800 588 VIC 1800 825 955 WA 1800 199 008