001/1PLACOY
CO OC A Coy
8230173 LCPL JC WATSON
References:
A. DI(G) Pers 53-1 Recognition of Interdependent Partnerships, Para 7
B. Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) Volume 2, Chapter 7, Part 6, Division 1, Para 7.6.5 / 7.5.27.
C. Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) Volume 2, Chapter 7, Part 6, Division 2, para 1.3.80 and 1.3.82.
D. Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) Volume 2 Chapter 8, Part 6.
E. DI(A) Pers 47-11 Career management of soldiers in the Australian Regular Army and Army Reserve, Para 45.
F. Pay and Conditions Manual (PACMAN) Volume 2, Chapter 8, Part 6, Division 8.6.6-8.6.11
BACKGROUND
1. The last six month assessment of LCPL Watson’s performance has been poor. He has been identified on a number of occasions to perform his duties…show more content… Ms Low’s eldest child Matthew has just recently been diagnosed with Autism. This has put a financial strain on both of them as they have been paying for Matthew to travel to Sydney for special treatment, the treatment cost itself, and also for the special school that he is attending.
8. If LCPL Watson and Ms Low were to have their relationship recognised by Defence as interdependent, LCPL Watson could then apply to have Matthew recognised as a special needs dependant IAW with Ref C. LCPL Watson would then have the benefit of assistance in ref D. The Defence Community Organisation (DCO) may also be able to provide him with assistance in the event of a posting. For LCPL Watson to be eligible he would need to fill out an AD355-Assessment of Assistance form found on the DCO website. This will help in reducing the costs with speciality needs kids and also allow him to possible receive assistance on relocating to…show more content… LCPL Watson has express concern over receiving a posting order to Darwin for next year. His major concern is not being able to afford to pay for Matthew’s flights to Sydney for treatment.
14. If LCPL Watson has his relationship recognised by Defence as interdependent with his fiancée Ms Low, he should consider applying for a compassionate posting closer to Sydney IAW Ref E. This will allow Matthew to continue with his treatment. LCPL Watson would need to submit a PW166-2 with all supporting documentation included. Consideration should also be taken in regards to what is available in Darwin. IAW Ref F. Available support from the Defence Community Organisation may be provided at his location for specialist services if the AD355-Assessment of Assistance form found on the DCO website finds him eligible for assistance in his new location.
15. LCPL Watson should be counselled on how a compassionate posting may affect his future suitability for promotion so that he may take all of these factors into consideration. He should consider discussing long term prospects with his Career Advisor if he intends to remain in Defence long term; Compassionate postings are only short term and in this instance should not be recommended.
