MEMBER NEWS
Highlights from around the AFA community
July-August 2026
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the members’ area of the website, which will keep you updated on the latest news and events from around the country. The articles here showcase some of the exciting activities from our State and Territory Divisions, and the new Federation Council, and will also pass on important information from a national perspective.
We are excited to be sharing this information with you every two months, and we hope that this will help you stay connected with the Air Force Association community. Whether you are a long-time member, or new to our organisation, we invite you to take part in the conversation and share your own stories with us.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the Air Force Association, and we look forward to connecting with you.
Deanna Nott
National Vice President
Air Force Association Community Aids in Successful War Widow Claim
In a notable achievement for the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch, a complex War Widow Claim has been successfully resolved with assistance from the Air Force Association community.
Introduction of the Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets Bill 2023
The Safeguarding Australia’s Military Secrets (SAMS) Bill 2023 (the SAMS Bill) was introduced into Parliament in September 2023 to amend the Defence Act 1903. Submissions were invited, and closed on 16 November 2023. The Bill passed through the Senate on 27 March, and will take effect 28 days after the Royal Assent process and it being signed into law by the Governor General. The purpose of the new legislation is to establish a framework to regulate the work that certain former Defence staff members can perform without a ‘foreign work authorisation’; and the training that Australians, may provide without a ‘foreign work authorisation’.
Bravery with a golden touch
When ‘Albatross 04’, a RAAF 9 Squadron Iroquois helicopter, flew out of Vung Tau, Vietnam, on September 8, 1967, Corporal (retd) Anton Kretschmann couldn’t have known that his actions on that day would earn him a Chief of Air Force Gold Commendation 57 years later.
Missing RAAF WWII bomber and crew discovered in Papua New Guinea
Air Force has positively identified a Number 100 Squadron (100SQN) World War II Beaufort aircraft (A9-186) first reported missing in 1943, along with its four crew members. The aircraft was discovered recently after a challenging mission in the waters south of Gasmata, Papua New Guinea.
Ex-service people, experienced and ready
The Australian Government today launched the Ex-Service Veteran Employment national advertising campaign that will promote the many skills and attributes ADF personnel gain through their ADF experience.
Appointment of Australian Defence Force senior leadership
The Australian Government is pleased to recommend to His Excellency, the Governor-General, a number of senior command changes within the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Subject to the Governor-General’s consideration and approval, the changes will take effect in July 2024.
Modernising DVA’s ICT remains a top priority
Recent advancements within MyService have significantly improved the experience for veterans and their families, streamlining the process of lodging claims and accessing vital support services.
Boost to veteran pensions
Eligible veterans and families are set to receive an increase in financial support when pension payments rise.
Join the Adventure – Scootaville 2024 Needs You!
If you’re feeling like some adventure this year, consider switching gears and nominating to ride in this year’s Scootaville – either in Queensland or New South Wales or both!
Veterans’ Legislation Reform – Consultation on proposed changes
The Government has today announced the commencement of public consultation on proposed changes to simplify veterans’ entitlements, compensation and rehabilitation legislation.
ADSO’s Revitalisation and Air Force Association’s Supporting Role
The Alliance of Defence Service Organisations (ADSO) has undergone notable updates to its website and initiatives, aimed at bolstering its presence and advocacy for the protection of Defence Families’ entitlements.
Statement from the Secretary of DVA on the Veterans’ MATES Program
The Department is aware that the withdrawal of Defence and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Human Research Ethics Committee approval on Monday, 5 February 2024 has increased concerns in the veteran community regarding the Veterans’ MATES Program (MATES), particularly in relation to the sharing of data.
AFA To Steer Scootaville Moving Forward
Scootaville, the mini motorbike ride, will become a flagship fundraising event of the Air Force Association.
New business network to boost veteran employment
A new Malinauskas Government program to help employers attract and retain veterans and their partners has been launched, bringing together a dedicated group of South Australian businesses to support the veteran community.
Discounted holiday accommodation for members
Get ready for a well-deserved break! Did you know that the Gold Coast is home to two fantastic properties offering affordable holidays for those who have served?
MORE MEMBERS NEWS
AFA-SA marks 104th anniversary of Formation of Air Force in Adelaide with Sunset Wreath Laying
On 31 March, Air Force Association (South Australia) joined with the Adelaide community in marking the 104th anniversary of the formation of the Royal Australian Air Force and the Air Force Birthday. Embracing the theme of Then – Now – Always, AFA-SA reflected on the...
AFA-SA hosts story telling activity with 102-year-old RAAF Veteran
AFA-SA recently proudly presented a unique storytelling event at the April Combined Ex-Services Mess in Adelaide, where Group Captain Greg Weller engaged with 102-year-old Ray Merrill DFC, one of South Australia’s few remaining RAAF WW2 Bomber Command veterans. The...
AFA Geelong Branch President Recognised
Group Captain John Price has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Military Division (OAM) for his exceptional service as an Inquiry Officer and facilitator of administrative inquiries in the Royal Australian Air Force. The award, announced in the...
Scootaville 2025 to Support Air Force Association and Legacy
The popular charity ride Scootaville is hitting the road again in 2025 — and this year, it’s set to support both Legacy and the Air Force Association, raising funds and awareness for veterans and their families. Organised by the Radschool Association Inc, a registered...
Seeking Relatives of WWII Flying Ace FLTLT Murray Adams
The Air Force section at the Australian High Commission in London has been approached by historian and craftsman David Wilson, who has self-funded a project to honour 13 WWII flying aces. One of these heroes is ex-RAAF Flight Lieutenant Murray Adams, who served with...
AFA Shines at Avalon Airshow with Community Spirit and Aviation Flair
The Air Force Association has made a strong impression at the recent Avalon Australian International Airshow, with its Hall 4 stand drawing hundreds of visitors to explore the combined AFA and Wings magazine display. The setup proved a magnet for aviation enthusiasts,...
RAAF’s Role in Operation Babylift – 50th Anniversary Spotlight
As the 50th anniversary of Operation Babylift nears on 30 April 2025, the Air Force Association (AFA) remembers the Royal Australian Air Force’s vital contribution to this historic humanitarian effort. In April 1975, as Saigon faced imminent collapse under Viet Cong...
Historical RAAF Baltimore Bomber Discovered Underwater In Greece
A Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Baltimore bomber aircraft, which was lost while on an operational mission during the Second World War, has been discovered off the island of Antikythera in Greece. The discovery of the wreck of Baltimore FW282 brings to an end 82...
Have Your Say: Shape DVA’s Communication with Veterans
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is seeking input from veterans to improve how it communicates with you and the broader veteran community. A short survey, conducted by independent consultancy 89 Degrees East, invites you to share your preferences on receiving...
Inquiry into the operation and appropriateness of the superannuation and pension schemes for current and former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF)
On 11 February 2025 the Senate referred the following matters to the Senate Finance and Public Administration References Committee (the committee) for inquiry and report by 5 August 2025. The Terms of Reference are also available on the committee’s inquiry webpage....