A successful Cowork Coplay program in Adelaide, South Australia

Friday 26th June 2026
Media release

Participants, supporters and stakeholders in the veteran community have come together to mark the end of another successful Cowork Coplay program in Adelaide.

On Tuesday 23 June 2026, program participants, sponsors and stakeholders celebrated the achievements of participants in the Cowork Coplay program in Adelaide, South Australia.

Research shows that 9 of out 10 partners/spouses of Australian Defence Force members have made career sacrifices due to service life. They experience higher unemployment and underemployment rates than Australians without a Defence connection. Other challenges of service life include feeling a lack of control and isolation from family and social supports. Yet veteran family members are often highly qualified, skilled, enthusiastic and actively contribute to their communities. They present an extremely attractive talent pool for employers.

The Cowork Coplay program is specifically designed to help solve some of the challenges and highlight the opportunities; for individuals, employers and communities.

Program participants learn, take action and build meaningful connections. Many seek employment, develop career plans and pursue professional goals, while connecting with others and enhancing their self-knowledge, agency and wellbeing.

The program runs for 8 weeks with weekly face-to-face sessions. Participants work through a planned curriculum with the program facilitator and are supported by subject matter experts and external mentors. Topics include self awareness, career development, wellbeing and joy, and community information and services.

Onsite child care provides extra flexibility for those participants with a caring role.

2026 is the fourth year the program has been delivered in Adelaide, with 45 adults and 26 children embarking on programs so far.

The program is free for eligible participants and is delivered by Human Quotient Group with support from Veterans SA (South Australian Government), APOD (Australian Partners of Defence), Lives Lived Well and the North East Defence Community.

“This program has given me so much more than I ever expected. It has shown me the incredible support available within the Defence community and highlighted the wonderful people who are genuinely invested in helping us succeed. The course encouraged me to reflect on my needs and goals, enabling me to create a more balanced and happier life.

One of the most valuable outcomes has been the friendships I’ve formed. I now have a wonderful group of women in my life who listen, support, and understand the unique challenges of this lifestyle, all while bringing laughter and joy along the way.

Cowork Coplay helped me through a particularly low point and reminded me of the importance of feeling supported, connected, and informed. It not only provided valuable education and resources but also helped me build a strong sense of community and belonging. I believe programs like this are vital in helping Defence families create their village and thrive.”

— Bethan, Cowork Coplay Adelaide 2026 participant

“This was my first posting as both a Defence spouse and a veteran. The first time I had moved without a job to step into or a ready-made community waiting for me. Cowork Coplay has been invaluable in creating a space where my experiences are understood and normalised, where I feel seen, and where I have had the opportunity to explore my goals and aspirations.

I arrived in Adelaide feeling anxious about not knowing anyone, but through the Cowork Coplay program I have connected with an incredible network of like-minded women and built meaningful social connections. Having dedicated time and support to explore my purpose and career direction has been instrumental in supporting my wellbeing and helping me settle into this new chapter of life.

I am incredibly grateful to the Human Quotient Group team for creating this opportunity and for the positive impact it has had on my transition out of Defence to a civilian career.”

— Bec, Cowork Coplay Adelaide 2026 participant

“Half of Australian Defence families feel a lack of control over their lives or uncertainty about the future, compared to 29% of the broader Australian population. Frequent relocations, long service hours, plus a range of other service life factors, drive lower levels of overall life satisfaction. 

As a Navy spouse of 15 years, I am proud of our family’s service and loved the adventure of living around Australia. However, navigating moves, raising a baby far from family, and career disruptions was often isolating and stressful. That lived experience gave me first-hand insight into the unique pressures of Defence life and the incredible strength and adaptability of families. I saw an opportunity to contribute—to create an immersive space where veteran families are truly seen, where they can harness their power and support one another to thrive.

The Cowork Coplay program helps people reflect, learn, take action and create greater agency over their lives. It is a privilege to work with our team and walk alongside program participants as they pursue what matters to them and enhance their personal (and family) wellbeing.”

“The Cowork Coplay program is making a meaningful difference to the everyday lives of Defence and veteran families across South Australia. We know service life can present unique challenges for spouses and partners, particularly around career continuity, connection and wellbeing. Programs like this build confidence, create strong networks and support participants to pursue their goals, strengthening both individuals and the broader veteran community.

Importantly, initiatives like Cowork Coplay also help position South Australia as a destination of choice for Defence and veteran families by showing that we value not only those who serve, but the families who support them. When people know they can build careers, create connections and thrive here, it strengthens our communities and makes South Australia an even more attractive place to live, work and serve.”

“At APOD, we are proud to support Cowork Coplay because it recognises veteran and Defence families in their own right. When we invest in their careers, confidence and connection, the benefit flows through families, workplaces and local communities.”

“Cowork Coplay has been an incredible addition to the hub! The connections that are made within this group are wonderful and it’s so lovely to see the veteran family community coming together.”

If you have any questions about the media release and/or would like further information, please contact: Claire Harris, 0413 883 414, hello@humanquotient.com.au.

• About the Cowork Coplay program.
• Adelaide 2026 program details.
• Media release: Life-changing programs for Defence and veteran families return to the Northern Territory and South Australia.

Cowork Coplay programs are delivered by Human Quotient Group, an award-winning, certified social enterprise and veteran family business.

• Summary report of the 2022 Australian Defence Force Families Survey.
• McCue, A. 2018. Submission to Parliamentary Inquiry into Transition from the Australian Defence Force.
• Department of Defence, 2023. Submission of the 2022 ADF Families Survey – draft report to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide: Exhibit 79-01.018 – DEF.1197.0003.0677 – 2022 Australian Defence Force Families Survey (Draft).
• National Mental Health Commission. National Report Card 2024. Sydney, NMHC, 2025.
• ABS, 2025. General Social Survey: Summary Results, Australia.