Note 1: The presence of a member's partner has no effect on the number of rooms needed. This is because they are taken to share with the member.

Note 2: A child in school year 7 or over has their own bedroom

Note 3: Children of the same gender with an age difference of four or more years have separate bedrooms.

Note 4: A recognised other person has a separate bedroom.

Note 5: A member who has accompanied resident family is eligible for a 3-bedroom Service residence even when they only need 2 bedrooms. See subsection 7.6.28.2.

Example 1: A member has a partner, daughters aged 14 and 11, and a son aged 6. The member's father-in-law is a recognised other person.
The member and partner share a bedroom.
The elder daughter is in school year 9, and gets her own bedroom.
The younger daughter is in school year 6 and the son is in school year 1. As they are different genders they get a bedroom each. (If the children were the same gender, the 5 year age difference would also usually mean they get a bedroom each.)
The member's father-in-law gets his own bedroom, as he is a recognised other person but not a partner.
The member requires a five-bedroom Service residence.

Non-example: A member has a partner, a 12 year old son and a 6 year old daughter. The member has a resident child carer. The resident child carer is not considered as a factor when deciding whether a Service residence is suitable. The member is not eligible to a 4-bedroom Service residence, a 3-bedroom Service residence is considered suitable for the purpose of assessing eligibility for housing assistance.

Example: Factors that the CDF may take into consideration when assessing the suitability of a Service residence might include either of the following.

1. 1. The member, their dependant or adult child has accessibility requirements.

   2. The member needs to be located close to rehabilitation facilities.

Example: A child in a wheelchair may be able to live in a Service residence if ramps are installed and a shower is modified.

Non example: The parents of a hyperactive child may prefer the child not to share a bedroom. However, that does not give rise to an additional bedroom benefit.

A member who is recognised as having resident family or recognised other persons with special needs should write this on their 'Application for relocation (PDF 218KB)' form. The member may attach a copy of their special needs assessment of assistance letter which can alert Defence Housing Australia so they can offer a Service residence that meets the need.



Special needs assistance for housing is coordinated by the Housing Management Centre, with help from Defence Member and Family Support. Details can be obtained through the Defence Family Helpline on telephone 1800 624 608 or through the Defence Service Centre on telephone 1800 333 362.

Unit administrators are to provide the information to the Defence Housing Australia Regional Operations Manager.