The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has launched its latest round of innovative arts program in Canberra aimed at supporting the recovery of military personnel facing health and wellbeing issues.
The ADF Arts for Recovery, Resilience, Teamwork and Skills (ARRTS) program is currently being run at the University of Canberra.
The four week program is an opportunity to provide participants with an uplifting experience that has been designed to build their self-confidence and to assist their movement, speech and attention span.
The program has 16 participants from Army, Navy and Air Force who are taking part in a series of workshops and being mentored by professional artists, actors and creative staff.
The Head of ARRTS, Brigadier Wayne Goodman, said the successes of the past warrant running the program for a fifth time.
“Participants have various injuries ranging from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to physical injuries and illnesses and they will benefit from improvements in health, increased self-esteem and motivation,” Brigader Goodman said.
“The program assists those suffering from workplace and life stress. No prior experience or training in the arts is required.”
The program includes training and practical experience in acting and performance, music and rhythm, creative writing and visual arts.
At the end of the program participants will return to their home units across Australia.
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
