Welcome to our blog series: Their Stories. We explore what meaningful work and Defence service means to the lives of partners.

When Cindy Liang joined the Cowork Coplay Adelaide 2025 program, she was at a turning point in her life. With a Master’s Degree and professional experience in the real estate industry, she arrived with clear goals of career planning and finding advice on job hunting and tips that would help set her up for when she wanted to re-enter the paid workforce. She was also searching for clarity, confidence, and a sense of direction after relocating back to Adelaide with a small child. 

As a mum navigating the demands of Defence life,Cindy recognised she’d been carrying the weight of rebuilding her life in a new community without the networks she used to lean on. Her goal for the program was simple but powerful: to rebuild her confidence and feel genuinely prepared to return to the workforce.

Cindy Liang, partner of a Defence member, shares her story

Across the 8 weeks, Cindy found exactly what she had been missing — a safe place to open up, explore her options, and take practical steps toward her future. She leaned into career workshops, refreshed her resume and LinkedIn profile, discovered new local opportunities, and began reconnecting with her strengths. Just as importantly, she found community. 

The support of the group helped her feel less alone, more grounded, and more optimistic about what comes next. Cindy’s journey is a testament to the difference connection and encouragement can make when rebuilding both confidence and career direction.

What you have achieved or experienced since completing the Cowork Coplay program and meeting other people in the Defence/veteran community?

“Since completing the Cowork Coplay program and connecting with others in the Defence and veteran community, I’ve regained confidence and a clearer sense of identity. After spending a couple of years at home caring for my two kids while my husband’s work kept him very busy, I often felt disconnected from the workforce and community. The program helped me rebuild my self-belief, recognise my strengths, and prepare for returning to work. Connecting with others who shared similar transitions was especially impactful. Hearing their experiences and challenges helped normalise my own feelings and reinforced that I’m not alone in navigating this stage. The support and understanding within the community made it much easier for me to move forward with clarity and purpose.

The program has helped me reconnect with myself and move forward with greater confidence and direction.”

Describe some of the benefits you and your family gained from you participating in the Cowork Coplay program?

“The Cowork Coplay program was a game-changer for me and my family. After years of being at home with the kids, it gave me the space to reconnect with myself, rebuild my confidence, and rediscover my own identity.

The best part was seeing how this personal growth translated directly into a happier home. I became a calmer, more patient, and more present parent. My family noticed the positive shift right away, and their support meant so much to me.

Investing in myself ended up being one of the best things I could do for my family, and the program played an important role in making that possible.”

What are your career or personal goals at the moment?

“My current focus is on rebuilding my professional confidence and making a gradual return to the workforce. I’m actively updating my skills and exploring roles that align with my core strengths, while working toward a sustainable balance between my career and family life. 

On a personal level, I’m committed to continuing my journey of self-discovery and strengthening my sense of independence.”

If you could snap your fingers and make one thing real for Defence/veteran partners like you, what would it be?

“If I could snap my fingers, I would want all Defence and veteran partners to have more say in their other half’s postings. It would help us manage the unique challenges we face, strengthen our families connections, and contribute positively to our careers.” 

Confidence rediscovered, community embraced

Cindy’s experience highlights the profound impact Cowork Coplay can have on Defence and veteran partners carving out their path amid relocations, disrupted careers, and long periods of solo parenting. Like many spouses, she arrived searching for clarity, connection, and a renewed sense of direction.The program gave her a steady place to regain momentum, redefine what she wanted next, and connect with peers who share the same unique rhythm of military family life.

Cowork Coplay is designed with Defence families in mind, offering a unique combination of career development opportunities, childcare, and peer connection. These elements come together to create an environment where participants can focus on their goals, build resilience, and explore new possibilities for work, study, or personal growth.

The program has already supported families in Adelaide (2023, 2024 & 2025) and Perth (2024), Darwin (2025). It will be returning in 2026, Term 2 in Adelaide.

Find out more and watch our social media to see when Adelaide applications open. 

Thank you, Cindy, for sharing your story with us. We wish you all the best in your new adventures.

Should you wish to connect with Cindy, connect with her on LinkedIn.