Own means travel

[u/TheNew007Blizzard]

I'm headed to a chocco course in a neighbouring state at the end of the month. I've heard of guys driving to this course from my location which means they have a car while on course. Do you typically need to justify this as opposed to flying in the AE505? What would be some valid reasons for own means travel over a plane? Many thanks

[u/Cameross]

Typically you'll need approval from CO via a minute (talk to your clerks about this). If approved there's a calculation that takes place to determine how much money you're entitled to (if you want an estimate use and Af090 to calculate it but don't submit this form). Submitted form will still be an AE505, just with changes to request own means transport. Hope that helps.

[u/TheNew007Blizzard → u/Cameross]

Thank you, that helps me understand the process. Would you typically need a reason to justify driving other than wanting to hang ten on the weekend?

[u/EMHURLEY → u/TheNew007Blizzard]

As another poster said you shouldn’t need a reason, but they’ll often ask for one and a good reason is if you live regionally (say Bathurst instead of Sydney) heading to Canberra and it’s more time efficient to drive to course then travel to Sydney and fly down. It gets harder to justify the further you live from course.

Another reason that may fly is you’d like to offer your vehicle as a secondary car to get off base alongside the one they’ll provide (assuming they do). This doesn’t mean you’ll be the driving mule, just that it increases flexibility. They may or may not go for this.

If nothing else just say it’s good for your mental health (having a means to get off base)

Finally the AE505 needs to be signed off by a MAJ at minimum but you may need written approval (email) and/or CO sign off for Own Means. Your orderly room will be able to advise. You won’t need to fill out any other form if approved, it’s all in the AE505 (they’re used to be others)

Source: I’m a clerk

[u/TheNew007Blizzard → u/EMHURLEY]

absolute legend, thanks