If you’re posted to a location that may cause hardship, Defence may pay you an allowance based on your location and individual circumstances.
Location allowances compensate for any extra inconvenience or difficulties you may experience while living at the posting location, such as:
- remoteness
- harsh climate
- a higher cost of living
- difficult living conditions.
ADF location allowance rates will increase on 5 November 2026. You’ll see the increased amount in your pay from 19 November 2026.
ADF district allowance
You can get this allowance if you’re posted to a remote location. The allowance amount you get depends on your living situation and the grade assigned to your remote location.
Rate increases if you’re staying in living-in accommodation
If you stay in living-in accommodation, your new annual ADF district allowance amount will be:
| Location grade | Current rate | Rate from 5 November 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| A | $1,195 | $1,255 |
| B | $3,420 | $3,575 |
| C | $4,275 | $4,470 |
| D | $5,985 | $6,265 |
| E | $6,845 | $7,160 |
Rate increases if you live in other accommodation with your family
If you live out with your accompanied resident family and are the only one who gets ADF district allowance, your new annual allowance amount will be:
| Location grade | Current rate | Rate from 5 November 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| A | $3,420 | $3,580 |
| B | $9,770 | $10,215 |
| C | $12,215 | $12,775 |
| D | $17,105 | $17,895 |
| E | $19,550 | $20,450 |
