Upcoming Webinar - Managing separation associated with Australian Antarctic Program (AAP) participation.

Managing an extended period of separation can be one of the more challenging aspects of participation in the Australian Antarctic Program (AAP) - for both our expeditioners as well as their family & friends back home. Before deciding to accept a role, it's important that you consider and plan for this.

With that in mind, we'd like to invite you to join us for our Managing Separation webinar on Tuesday 27th May from 7.30 - 8.30pm (AEST). Hosted by Maree Riley (AAD's Organisational Psychologist) we'll talk about some of the challenges that expeditioners often speak about and share some practical tips and strategies that you might find useful.

You’ll also have the opportunity to hear from some current expeditioners and family members who will talk about their experience, and strategies they've been using to help manage the period of separation. And of course, there will be an opportunity to ask questions.

You can register to attend the webinar here and we’ll provide you with information on how to join.

Please feel free to share information about the webinar with any family & friends that you think might be interested in attending.

If you're unable to attend the webinar but would like to learn more about managing separation during AAP participation, our Separation Guide contains some useful information. You're also welcome to reach out to our Family & Friends Liaison Officer who can be contacted via FFLO@aad.gov.au or 1800 030 680.

A group of expeditioners in long grass
Macquarie Island winter team of 2019 in the tussock Photo: Kate Kloza

Supporting expeditioners

Counselling and support is available to all expeditioners (regardless of their affiliated agency), as well as their immediate families, through our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).  The EAP program, which is delivered by Telus Health, can be accessed by expeditioners and their immediate family during the pre-departure training period, while on deployment, and up to 6 months after return. The EAP is a free, professional and confidential support service available 24/7.  It offers expert advice, support, practical resources and referrals to help manage life’s issues and challenges – whether personal or professional.

Family and friends

Your family and friends will have many questions about your journey south.  Our Family and friends section has information about staying in touch and how to send mail to expeditioners on station.

The Family & Friends Liaison Officer (FFLO) is available to provide support during the period of separation and to answer questions your family and friends might have about your participation in the Program. The Family & Friends Liaison Officer can be contacted directly by calling 1800 030 680 or emailing FFLO@aad.gov.au.

Separation

Separation associated with participation in the Australian Antarctic Program can be challenging for both the expeditioner and those remaining at home. The Australian Antarctic Program Separation Guide provides information for expeditioners as they prepare to live away from their loved ones and for their family and friends remaining at home.

There are a number of practical issues  that need to be considered, discussed and prepared for and we strongly encourage you and your family to read this brochure.

ANARE Club

The ANARE Club provides an opportunity for expeditioners who are a member of the Club to keep in touch with each other. Please note that the ANARE Club is an external organisation and not part of the Australian Antarctic Division.

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