A recent trial dubbed ‘Cowork Coplay’ has seen 15 Navy families in Rockingham, Western Australia, experience a novel approach to addressing the challenges of balancing career aspirations with childcare responsibilities. In this trial, families were provided with professional mentoring for three hours a week while benefiting from complimentary childcare services at the same location.
Rebecca Mangano, a participant in the trial, shared her positive experience. Having relocated from Canberra to support her husband’s career in the Navy, Mangano found the opportunity to focus on her career transition while ensuring her children were well cared for. “Over the last six weeks, it’s been awesome to work on my resume and apply for a few internships while my boys are in care next door,” she remarked.
Beyond the practical benefits, the trial fostered social connections among Navy partners, particularly those who were new to the area. Parehuria Reweti, whose partner is a new recruit at HMAS Stirling, expressed gratitude for the newfound sense of community. “I’ve made some really good connections with the other Navy wives; even my daughters made friends with the other Navy kids. We feel like we have a community now,” Reweti shared.
This initiative aligns with the Navy’s Stay On Board – People First retention campaign, which aims to enhance career opportunities and support services for Navy personnel. Command Warrant Officer – Navy People, William McConnell, emphasized that the initiatives within the campaign are driven by feedback from Navy personnel themselves, highlighting the collaborative approach to improving support systems.
Recognizing the pivotal role of families in sustaining Navy personnel’s commitment to service, the campaign has dedicated efforts to family support. Commodore Tish Van Stralen, Director General Navy People, emphasized the importance of acknowledging and supporting Navy families. “Without our families we can’t do our jobs. Our families are just as important as our members,” Commodore Stralen emphasized.
Among the family-centric initiatives are measures to reduce time spent away from home, enhance internet connectivity at sea, and provide additional support during deployments. Additionally, the creation of the Navy Families Handbook serves as a comprehensive resource guide, ensuring families are aware of the available support services.
Looking ahead, plans are underway to expand the wellbeing support for families, including deployment assistance and welcome packs for new families. Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, underscored the significance of bolstering support for Navy families, recognizing their role in underpinning the Navy’s operational readiness. “Our power at sea is derived from our family’s strength at home,” Vice Admiral Hammond affirmed.
