This Part provides when a member is required to pay for a meal if they eat in a mess and the circumstances in which a member is able to receive food allowance.

When a member eats a meal in a mess, they are generally required to make a contribution towards the cost of that meal. In some circumstances, members may be able to receive meals at no cost (see Division 1).

If a member eats in a mess, they are generally required to pay the casual meal charge unless:

• They are paying a fortnightly meal charge.

• They have unaccompanied resident family.

• They are living under field conditions. 

The rates for casual meals are provided under Division 1, with specific rates provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Members who have unaccompanied resident family and are not paying the fortnightly meal charge may be eligible to receive food allowance to cover food costs (see Division 2).