Defence life doesn’t make career planning easy. Every few years (or less), we pack up and move – sometimes interstate, sometimes across the country. Each posting brings new routines, new schools for the kids, and the challenge of starting over again.

When my husband got his first posting, I struggled to find work. Despite my experience, during an interview I was asked what had brought us to the location, then received feedback that employers saw me as transient – someone who would be gone in a year or two, not worth investing in.

And the reality was, I did need flexibility. I had kids at different schools, different schedules, and no family nearby to help.

I quickly realised that if I wanted a career that worked with Defence life instead of against it, I needed to build something for myself. That’s how I ended up here – self-employed, running my own business, and proving that Defence spouses can have fulfilling, sustainable careers on our terms.


Why I Chose Self-Employment Over the Traditional Workforce

I didn’t start my business because I always dreamed of working for myself – I started it because the traditional workforce didn’t fit my life.

  • Employers saw me as “temporary.” Defence spouses are constantly moving, and employers know it. I was turned down for roles simply because they didn’t want to invest in someone who might relocate in a year or two.
  • I needed flexibility. Between school runs, deployments, and the unpredictability of Defence life, a rigid 9-5 job wasn’t realistic.
  • I wanted stability on my terms. Instead of rebuilding my career from scratch with every posting, I wanted something that moved with me – something I could take anywhere.

So I built a business that worked for me, my family, and this unpredictable lifestyle.


How I Make It Work as a Self-Employed Defence Spouse

Running a business while juggling Defence life isn’t always easy, but here’s what’s helped me keep things sustainable:

1. Embracing Flexibility

My business is designed to fit around my life, not the other way around. I work school hours, take on projects that align with my capacity, and allow space for the unpredictability of Defence life.

2. Creating a Portable Career

I built a business that moves with me. Whether we’re posted to a major city or a remote town, I can continue working without having to start from scratch.

3. Finding Support & Funding

There are resources out there for Defence spouses who want to start or grow their own business. Some of the most helpful include:

  • The King’s Trust Australia (formerly Prince’s Trust) – Offers business training and support specifically for Defence spouses.
  • Defence Families of Australia (DFA) – Provides advocacy and resources for Defence families, including employment support.
  • Local Small Business Grants – Some states offer funding and mentoring for small businesses, which can be helpful when relocating.

4. Building a Community

Defence life can be isolating, but I’ve connected with other people, including Defence spouses and Veterans, who run businesses too. Whether it’s online groups, networking events, or just finding like-minded people, having a support system makes a huge difference.


The Reality of Running a Business as a Defence Spouse

There’s no denying it.. it’s not always easy.

There are days when the mental load of parenting, Defence life, and running a business feels a lot. There are challenges, times when I’ve had to pivot, adapt, or step back. But the difference is, I have control. I’m not waiting for someone else to decide if I’m employable. I’m not starting over with every move. I’ve built something that works for me, for our family, and that also gives back to our community.

Being a Defence spouse doesn’t mean putting my career on hold. It means finding a way to make it work, in a way that fits my life. And for me, that’s self-employment.