Focus on your career + community
As the partner of a current- or former-serving Defence member you might feel your career is patchy, you’re disconnected and isolated, and you’re wishing you had some time to yourself to pursue what matters to you.
Imagine being in a welcoming space with others where you can connect, learn and explore your goals and then go after them!
This isn’t just a program; it’s a community where you can share, grow and have some fun (the ‘play’ is also for the adults) and be surrounded by others who just ‘get it’.
If you need child care, your little ones can be cared for nearby (thanks to the generosity of our supporters, this is free for participants).
Grab this unique opportunity, designed by a Defence partner for Defence/veteran partners.
Pursue your work-related projects, whatever they are! Business, study, job or volunteering? All welcome.
Program benefits
Our past Cowork Coplay participants have reported
- Increased confidence in their career or work goals, as a result they feel aligned, empowered and keen to go for their next step! Whether that is a job role, study, business or other opportunities.
- Feeling better, mentally & emotionally. This has ripple effects to all aspects of their lives. Some have started running/sports again, others have found renewed energy for family relationships, others have started that business they’ve dreamed about because they feel calmer, in control and optimistic.
- Greater understanding of the services and resources available, so they can tap into supports and improve their employability, finances, wellbeing.
- Feeling more comfortable with children in care, opening up opportunities for them to feel ready to jump back into the workforce again.
- Improved family dynamics, happier adults and happier children.
What’s included in a program?
3-hour sessions, 8 weeks
Sessions are 3 hours once a week, face-to-face. Starting at 09:30am, the facilitated program includes blocks of time for learning, networking with others and coworking (where it’s head down and work – bring your laptop, notebook or project to progress).
Supportive group
Opportunities to network and learn with others, build relationships and collaborate. You get access to a group chat for all alumni, enabling people to engage with each other, and ask questions of the program facilitators. Connections made in programs have often lasted long after the program concludes.
Workshops with mentors
Opportunities to participate in workshops tailored to the desires of the group, some with external mentors. Examples include: career and life goal setting; how to beat overwhelm for clearer decision-making; local jobs and employers; wellbeing & practical mindfulness; government support services.
Morning tea
Have a break and a chat, and some caffeine!
Creche for children
Children cared for by professionals in the creche nearby.
WIFI and modern facilities
Space for working and being connected online.
How it works
Each morning you’ll arrive at the venue for a 09:30am start. Our program facilitator will be there to greet you! If you’re bringing children you can check them into the creche 5 minutes before.
Each session we will focus on a different aspect of career, community connection or wellbeing. You’ll have time to work on your own projects and participate in group activities (optional).
The 3-hour block will be broken up with regular breaks and there’ll be a yummy morning tea.
You’ll walk away with a range of resources, tips, links and actual plans and materials that you’ve completed. And you’ll be able to refer back to these over and over again.
You’ll have access to an online learning platform with extra resources and modules you can do at your own pace.
We’ll have regular check-ins and a group WhatsApp group to enable any questions or requests for help in between sessions (and after the program).
Want to participate?
Applications are open
Program details
- Eligibility: Partner/spouse of current- or former-serving ADF member
- Start date: Monday 5th May until 30th June (except for the public holiday on the 9th June)
- Times: 09:30am to 12:30pm (including morning tea)
- Location: Northeast Adelaide
- Places are limited! This program is fully supported for participants thanks to our supporters.
Move your career forward, pursue your goals.
Feel part of a community that gets it! Grab this chance to form new connections with people that get the ups and downs of Defence life.
“The Cowork Coplay program has been life-changing. It’s given me a real sense of belonging in the Defence community. I’ve been able to connect with other spouses that just ‘get it’. So often, as Defence spouses we are made to feel like our whole life should revolve around the serving member, and little thought is given to our career development. Claire has carefully chosen weekly speakers that help us to identify our career goals and focus on improving our employment prospects.”
Elise Knight, Adelaide
“Participating in Cowork Coplay was one of the best decisions I made when posting to Adelaide. It provided me with instant community, connection, and support in a city where I knew no one. It was essential to me being able to pursue my own goals and study in a time where I wouldn’t have otherwise had support to do so. Connecting with other Defence partners, learning about available resources, and having care for my daughter while I studied was an invaluable support to me and I’m so glad I found the program and was able to participate!”
Jennah Robichaud, Adelaide
Fully subsidised thanks to supporters
Thanks to Veterans SA, WorkSec and APOD the Cowork Coplay program in Adelaide is fully subsidised for participants in 2025!
Want to participate?
Applications are open for this fully subsidised program, built to give you time and space to pursue your career goals and create connections with others.
Cowork Coplay programs are delivered by Human Quotient Group, a certified social enterprise & veteran community business.
