South Australian defence force families will be able to access greater support, following a change in the new enrolment process for public schools.

Parents and carers of students attending a public school will be able to identify themselves as a current or former member of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) using a new digital enrolment form.

This change will make it easier for schools to identify children of ADF parents, put in place additional localised supports, and refer them to Commonwealth Government support services.

Things such as student support services, financial assistance and guidance and counselling will be made more accessible through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Education Schemes.

The implementation of the additional support identifier will ensure defence families are captured within the education system as part of the digital enrolment process.

The change will ensure all entitlements are provided, along with additional support when families are moved, or the defence member is posted away for duty.

The form will be developed this year in consultation with schools, parent associations and other relevant stakeholders.

It is anticipated that the updated Digital Enrolment Form will be introduced in schools from Term 1 next year.