The Air Force Association has launched a new national website, giving veterans, serving members and their families one place to find support, connect with their local Division and explore more than 100 years of Air Force history.
The new site, airforceassociation.org.au, replaces the Association’s former website and carries the name the organisation is known by today.
It brings together the national body and all seven state and territory Divisions, so people can find help close to home wherever they live.
AFA National Vice President Deanna Nott said the website was built around the people the Association exists to serve.
“When a veteran or a family member comes looking for us, they should be able to find what they need quickly, whether that is support, a Division contact or simply a way to stay in touch,” Ms Nott said.
“This site does that. It is clear, it is easy to use and it tells the story of who we are.”
Visitors can find support and advocacy information, guidance on wearing medals and nominating someone for an honour, membership details and links to services including the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Open Arms.
The site also carries news and events, a media centre and a heritage section with historic stories, biographies of those who served and pages for Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, Battle of Britain Day and VP Day.
Wings, the Association’s magazine published since 1942, can be read online by members and links directly from the new website.
Ms Nott thanked web developer Conrad Priestley, who built the site alongside the AFA National Board.
“Conrad has done an outstanding job. He listened, he understood what our members needed and he worked patiently with the Board through every stage,” she said.
“This was a national effort. Divisions, branches and members from across the country sent in stories, photographs and ideas, and the site is better for every one of them. Thank you to everyone who played a part.”
Founded in 1920, the Air Force Association has about 4,500 members across its seven Divisions and their branches. Last year it committed $1.2 million to welfare and wellbeing.
The new site also includes a Donate Now button, which Ms Nott hopes will encourage people to consider supporting that work.
“Every donation helps us look after veterans and their families, so we have made it easy to find,” she said.
“Online donations by credit card will be available through the site soon.”
“The Association has been looking after the Air Force family for more than a century,” Ms Nott said.
“This website helps us keep doing that for the next generation.”
Membership is open to serving and former Air Force members, their families and members of the public who support the Association’s work.
