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BY DEAN SIMPSON   When was the term ‘Salvos’ first used? You’ll be surprised.   The international Salvation Army has had several nicknames, but none as prolific or prevalent in society as the Australian moniker – the ‘Salvos’.   To the Australian public, The Salvation Army is the ‘Salvos’, and a Salvationist (or anyone representing The Salvation Army) is a ‘Salvo’. The official crest of The Salvation Army. In some parts of the world, including Australia at different times, the movement has been affectionately known as the ‘Sallies’, ‘Sally Army’ or even the ‘Sally Anns’, particularly in Canada during the war years. Australian singer Olivia Newton-John, in her 1970s hit Long, Live, Love, referred to the ‘Sally Annie band’.   But love it or loathe it, the ‘Salvos’ is the Aussie way of referring to The Salvation Army, and it’s here to stay if the general public has any say in it.   We all know that Aussies love abbreviating words. Particularly when it comes to the letter ‘o’. Petrol stations are ‘servos’, bowling clubs are ‘bowlos’, garbage collectors are ‘garbos’, car registrations are ‘regos’, musicians are ‘musos’, avocadoes are ‘avos’ ... the list goes on.   So, it follows that ‘The Salvation Army’ would always be shortened somehow, and it was almost inevitable that it would be the ‘Salvos’.   But when did it start? When is the first recorded mention of the Salvos?   Well, thanks to The Salvation Army Australia Museum, we have a date. It’s 1900. And a name – Joe the Salvo!   The museum’s Assistant Manager Barry Gittins explains: “The name ‘Salvos’ dates back to the early days of the Army’s history in this country – some 124 years ago, in the 7 July 1900 issue of the War Cry . The reference was in a fictional story – the earliest use of the word ‘Salvos’ that I have seen in print.”   Barry went on to say that around the turn of the 20th century, The Australian War Cry ran a serial adventure story called ‘Way of the Deep’, starring a fictional hero called Joe.  The scene in the WarCry adventure story in 1900 where a shipmate questions Joe about joining the ‘Salvos’. A seafaring man, Joe had injured himself while on duty, and during his recovery in a small coastal town, he came across The Salvation Army, where he heard the gospel message, became a Christian and then a Salvationist.   After recovering, Joe returned to the docks, where his shipmates greeted him: “Hullo Joe!” said one, “is it true you’ve joined the Salvos?”   Gaining popularity Over the next 50 years, the word ‘Salvos’ was used sporadically but gained popularity during the war years, especially during the Kokoda campaign in the early 1940s.   A Red Shield Representative was often called the ‘Sallyman’ and the organisation the ‘Salvos’. Newspaper headlines during the war – including ‘ The red badge of ‘Salvo’ courage’ or ‘Salvos are where they are needed’ – emphasised the general use of the term. One Sallyman, Major John McCabe, who served in the Middle East and then the Kokoda Campaign in the 2/2nd Australian Infantry Battalion, was better known by diggers as ‘Salvo Mac’.   Newspaper headlines that appeared in major Australian editions in World War Two in the 1940s. And there was even a small boat named ‘The Salvo’! On returning from the Middle East with the 6th Division in World War Two, Salvation Army Representative Hedley Steer recalled: “I was transferred to North Force in Darwin and there I had the boat called The Salvo. My main role (in The Salvo) was servicing Searchlight Groups and Coast Batteries surrounding the Darwin Harbour.”  The Salvation Army boat, nicknamed ‘The Salvo’ that was in service on Darwin Harbour in World War Two. The term gained further popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. Anyone associated with The Salvation Army in Australia was now regularly referred to as a Salvo, whether an officer, soldier, staff member or volunteer.   Use of the term reached a new level when the Red Shield Appeal began in 1965, with the beloved phrase ‘Thank God for the Salvos’ appearing in advertising campaigns – from television, radio and print to signs and billboards. By this time, the Salvos were everywhere.    Australian entertainer and singer Johnny Ashcroft released a single in 1975 called ‘Holy Joe the Salvo’, which became that year’s Red Shield Appeal song. Click here to listen to the song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_hoY0aLqr0   The 1970s record single sleeve of the song ‘Holy Joe, the Salvo’ by Johnny Ashcroft. Books started appearing with the ‘Salvos’ in the title. In 1980, Lowell Tarling brought out a book titled Thank God for the Salvos . John Cleary wrote a book titled Salvos – The Salvation Army in the 1990s , and in the same decade, Walter Hull called his book Salvos With the Forces . In the 21st century, the word ‘Salvo’ is now embedded in Australian culture.   Many of The Salvation Army’s services include the term. For example, we’ve got Salvos Stores and Salvos Funerals, and most churches now refer to themselves as Salvos rather than Corps. Our own Publications Department has Salvos Magazine, Salvos Publishing, Salvos Studios and Salvos Online. Three book covers honouring the Salvos. But have we gone down the wrong path? Should ‘Salvos’ be banned, and we return solely to ‘The Salvation Army’ and ‘Salvationist’?   Here I’ll turn to the Army’s first national leader of the newly formed Australia Territory, the late Commissioner Floyd Tidd, who wrote a column for Others Magazine in 2018. Part of his article reads: Salvos come in all shapes, ages and nationalities. We live in all corners of the nation. Some of us wear a uniform, and some do not. What binds us together and makes us all Salvos – our defining quality, if you like – is that we live out the vision.  Our National Vision Statement describes the behaviour and identifying characteristics of a Salvo perfectly: “Wherever there is hardship or injustice, Salvos will live, love and fight alongside others to transform Australia one life at a time with the love of Jesus.”  By this everyone will know that you are a Salvo, if you live, love and fight, alongside others. By this everyone will know that you are a Salvo, if you see hardship or injustice and respond with the love of Jesus. In one sense, it is not us who decides who is a Salvo. Members of the Australian public identify us and name us as Salvos when they witness us living out the vision. When they see volunteers, officers, soldiers and employees living, loving and fighting, they might say: “Thank God for the Salvos.” I have spoken to some who have expressed concern that we are “watering down” the word Salvo or “lowering the bar”. I point them back to the words of our Vision Statement. It is no small commitment! Just imagine what God is going to do through a united Army of Salvos, living this Vision Statement out across our country. (To read the full article, click here: https://others.org.au/viewpoint/who-is-a-salvo/ )   Whether you use the terms Salvationist and Salvation Army or Salvo and Salvos, it really doesn’t matter.   We are an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, and our mandate is to ‘love God and love others’. At heaven’s gates, I’m sure we will not be asked whether we preferred being called a Salvo or a Salvationist.   The choice of name is yours.

Each month on Salvos Online , Rosy, the Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, shares her thoughts and reflections on the spiritual issues that shape our lives as Christians, exploring how our faith intersects with our everyday experiences and how we can deepen our relationship with God. Today she tackles spiritual warfare.   We have just launched The Way, an initiative that will set the spiritual direction for The Salvation Army’s future in Australia. Over the weekend of 13-15 February, I attended one of the 50 launch sites around the Australia Territory, where there were breakout sessions on prayer, evangelism, discipleship, All Salvos on Mission, and ... spiritual warfare. Hundreds of Salvos and other interested people watched the videos, prayed and discussed how we might be faithful to God both now and in the future through The Way . The main feedback in the lead-up, I heard, was that people were genuinely excited to gather around these focuses. There was, however, a little consternation about the idea of spiritual warfare. One person commented that it was ironic that we, as The Salvation Army, with ‘Army’ in our name, were not quite sure about the warfare we were entering. I have to admit that spiritual warfare is not something I have received extensive teaching on, nor am I as familiar with it as I am with prayer or evangelism. Praying is talking to God. Evangelism is telling people about God. So where does spiritual warfare fit? After watching Megan’s video, we discussed how we understand spiritual warfare, where we see it in our lives, and what it looks like in practice. Many pointed to Ephesians 6 and the armour of God as evidence of the reality of warfare, and perhaps as guidance for how we might engage in it. Spiritual warfare feels like where the rubber meets the road of whether the spiritual realm is ‘real’ or not. Most people can accept that you are talking to God in prayer. They can accept that you hold beliefs about God and share them with others. They understand mentoring and discipleship. They can even understand all Salvos on Mission. In fact, that sleeves-rolled-up mentality is probably what we are best known for at The Salvation Army. There is a pragmatism that sets the Salvos apart from some more inward-facing movements or congregations. We are eminently prepared to serve. But is spiritual warfare also a form of service? As much as prayer is? Are we equally engaged in that? Jesus often used pictures, allegory and metaphor to help people understand. Storytelling was one of his key teaching methods. Shift in perspective I told my group a story from my teenage years. I had gone to stay at a friend’s house in the middle of the country. The house was old, draughty and a little frightening. It had very high ceilings and creaky doors, and it made many strange sounds at night. As my friends and I settled in for our first night, we turned off the light in the bedroom. Suddenly, from floor to ceiling, the walls lit up with glowing writing. We screamed and screamed until her mother came in, turned on the light, and asked what was going on! When the light was on, you could not see anything. We asked her to turn it off again, and suddenly the text reappeared. It turned out to be harmless gibberish written by the room's previous occupant, armed simply with a glow-in-the-dark pen. But in the dark, seeing something we had not seen before, we were terrified at first. Perhaps spiritual warfare requires a similar shift in perspective. With the lights on, seen only with human eyesight, the world appears in disarray and chaos because humanity is as it is. We see interpersonal conflict, as well as fears and anxieties. At times, these can rightly be connected to trauma or past experiences. Yet the Bible is filled with examples of the enemy, Satan, coming against the people of God. We are warned to be on guard against the devil and his schemes, to protect our minds and take our thoughts captive to Christ. Scripture makes it clear that there is more going on than what we see. We are told that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against rulers, authorities and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. We are also promised that the Kingdom will come, that Satan will ultimately be overcome, and that those who believe will share in eternal life. We need spiritual eyes to engage the world not just as it appears, but as it truly is. Well, this might be or appear frightening at first, but it doesn’t have to be because greater is he within us than he who is in the world. Māori spirituality In Māori culture, the concept of Te Whare Tapa Whā, developed by Mason Durie, describes wellbeing as a house with four walls: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. The spiritual dimension recognises that human beings are more than bodies and thoughts. For Māori spirituality, this connects with the spiritual world of their culture. For us as Christians, it is grounded in the God of the Bible: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. So how do we gain eyes to see? We can pray for wisdom. It may feel frightening, like turning off the lights and suddenly seeing hidden messages. There is a risk of becoming hyper-focused on the enemy, or fearful of things like witchcraft, oppression or spiritual principalities. Yet Scripture tells us clearly that we do not fight against flesh and blood, and at the same time, it repeatedly tells us, “Do not be afraid.” In fact, variations of that command appear around 365 times throughout the Bible. I recently read that Jesus rebuked the wind and the waves in Mark 4:39. He also rebuked unclean spirits and healed those oppressed by them. He was not naïve about the spiritual realm, nor was he fearful of it. Cornerstone of faith A friend of mine, Shushannah Anderson ( Creative Arts Ministries National Lead ), once shared that another of her mentors was US Salvation Army officer Colonel Janet Munn. Janet said that when her daughter was little and complained of illness, she would first pray with her, and then give her water, an apple, or medication if needed. Prayer was not a replacement for practical care. But neither was it subsumed by practical care. It was integrated with it, as spiritual life and spiritual warfare are called to be. Perhaps spiritual warfare is as simple as extending our prayer life, evangelism, mission and discipleship to ask: What is really going on beneath the surface? Is this physical, emotional, mental, spiritual or a combination? We do not sacrifice one dimension in favour of another. We hold them together in tension, like a net under an acrobat. We don’t let one corner remain slack for fear of it not being effective in catching people when they need it. I really recommend The Way series and, in particular, the spiritual warfare videos if you would like to have a bit more of an understanding and some practical questions about how spiritual warfare could be more of a cornerstone in your house of faith, so to speak. Perhaps asking trusted mentors or Salvation Army officers about resources they found that have been helpful in understanding this. In all of us, the most important thing to remember is that we are The Salvation Army. In Māori, we are called ‘te ope whakaora’, translated to ‘the army that brings life’. Therefore, our spiritual warfare is not only about slaying and battles and overcoming, but it is also about life and life and all its fullness. That is the promise that Jesus Christ gives us as we battle. That is the promise of the Lord who loves us and his victory over the world. That is what we fight for, the Kingdom of God on Earth and all its beauty.

To read Melissa’s Promoted to Glory notice and appointment service record, click here

The world leaders of The Salvation Army enjoy a laugh during their 'short fire' question and answer session. How familiar are you with the international leaders of The Salvation Army, General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham? In this warm-hearted video below, discover some of their life preferences – coffee or tea, sweets or salty snacks, mountains or the beach. Click on the link or the image below to view the reel: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2225028171637470

To read Pamela’s Promoted to Glory notice and appointment service history, click here

In Week 2 of Self Denial, we meet Stella, a single mother in Malawi working hard to provide for her children, often struggling to find food and keep them in school. Like many girls in her community, her daughter Mercy was married young – before she even finished Year 8. Mercy has since returned home, determined to go back to school and build a different future. Thanks to The Salvation Army’s Child Marriage Prevention Program, change is happening. Families are learning the value of education, girls are being supported to stay in school, and communities are standing together to end child marriage. Today, Mercy is back in class, thriving, and dreaming of a brighter future. This Self Denial Appeal story shows how education, protection, and hope can transform a generation. Your generosity makes this work possible. Over the coming weeks, we’ll visit Malawi, Sri Lanka, Rwanda and Fiji to see the incredible impact of past giving. Together, we can make a difference.  To find out more and donate, click here .

Colonels John and Lani Chamness share a lighter note with Commissioner Miriam Gluyas at the Melbourne Welcome Service at Camberwell Corp last Sunday. All photos: Major Steve Haworth BY LERISSE SMITH Many deadly creatures call Australia home. But newly arrived Colonels John and Lani Chamness, from the United States, aren’t letting Aussie creepy crawlies stop their big mission. They’ve hit the ground running, criss-crossing the country and settling into their new appointments. Last Sunday, it was Melbourne’s turn to officially welcome John, the new Chief Secretary, and Lani, the new Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Leader Development – Officers . The special public event, held at Camberwell Corps, was a celebration of exciting new beginnings, laughter, friendship and fellowship. Camberwell Corps Officer Major Matt Reeve and Assistant Chief Secretary Major Kim Haworth brought welcome greetings to the Chamnesses. “It’s so wonderful to formally welcome John and Lani here to Australia,” Major Kim Haworth told the congregation. “Over the past few weeks, we’ve had the privilege of having John and Lani with us here in Australia, and we’ve conducted some welcome chapel services at Blackburn and Redfern. We’ve had the opportunity to educate John and Lani by providing them with survival kits. One of them was all the great Australian food … and also an Aussie survival kit, which had clothing and other apparel because we know in Australia, apparently, there are about 16 different things that can kill you!” Kim described the couple as the ’real deal’. “They are authentic, wise, loving and kind,” she said. “They share a deep and beautiful faith and bring a wealth of experience to us here throughout their officer journey through many varied appointments. We have a real sense that we are in very good hands under their leadership.” The Melbourne Staff Songsters and Melbourne Staff Band brought musical items to the welcome service. A standout moment came when a young voice took centre stage.  Young Salvationist Annabelle Greenaway spoke to the Chamnesses on behalf of the territory’s youth. “We’re really glad that you’re here now,” she said. “Moving to a whole new country is no small thing, new culture, new rhythms, new slang. But more than that, stepping into leadership in a new territory requires courage, faith and trust in God’s leading, and we honour that in you. As young people across the territory, we want you to know that we are expectant.” She spoke of a generation already stirring. “We believe that God is moving in Australia,” Annabelle reflected. “We see it in our youth groups, in our schools, in our local corps and in our camps. We see young people encountering Jesus, discovering their calling, stepping into leadership and choosing lives of faith and integrity.” Colonels John and Lani Chamness greet young Salvationist Annabelle Greenaway who spoke on behalf of the territory’s youth at the welcome service. And young people are changing. They want to develop and grow in their faith journeys, a generation that cares deeply about authenticity. “As you begin your ministry here, we want you to know that the youth of this territory are not just the future of the Army. We’re a part of its present,” Annabelle emphasised. “We are ready to serve and ready to lead. We’re ready to stand for Jesus in our communities and in our everyday lives. We hope that you will see energy, creativity and faith in us. We hope you will hear our ideas and continue to create spaces where our young people can flourish. “We’re excited about what God will do through our leadership and through your leadership, and we’re committed to being part of that journey.” “Colonels John and Lani, thank you for saying yes to this appointment, and thank you for the sacrifices that came with it … know that across this territory, young people are praying for you, cheering you on and working alongside you. Welcome to Australia. We’re glad you’re here.” Humour also punctuated the service.  Commissioner Miriam Gluyas asked Lani and John what Aussie saying they had learned. Lani smiled and replied, “I want to chuck a sickie.” John added “Geelong Cats!” The moment when Lani said she has learnt the phrase ‘I want to chuck a sickie‘ – the look on Commissioner Miriam Gluyas’ face is priceless. Laughter followed, along with the reminder that this couple, parents of three grown children, have crossed oceans before, revealing that their experiences in transition have shaped them. Other memorable moments that formed part of the Welcome Service included Commissioner Miriam Gluyas highlighting Lani’s gift of discernment and John’s apostolic heart . “They are great people, beautiful hearts,” Miriam said. “We are rapt to have them here.” Lani also shared her musical talents, singing and playing the guitar. Musical items were also brought by the Melbourne Staff Band and the Melbourne Staff Songsters. Lani sang and played the guitar before John brought the mesage. John then delivered a sermon on Acts chapter four, highlighting Peter and John, their boldness, and the transformation that took place in their lives. “As Lani and I arrive among you, we are deeply aware that this is not just a new appointment,” he remarked. “It’s a holy moment, not because of us, not because of our titles, but because we belong to this missional movement of God that began in moments exactly like what we read in Acts chapter four. “Peter and John moved from fear to courage … Acts chapter four is not a story about church administration. It’s not about strategy or branding or structure. It’s about what happens when ordinary people are filled with the Spirit of God and refuse to stop talking about Jesus.” WATCH MORE: View the entire Welcome Service here Click through the slideshow below for more photos of the service:

To read the appointment bulletin, click here

Read Phyllis’ Promoted to Glory notice and officer appointment history here

The Salvation Army Kidzone mascot Cousin Koala greets Colonels John and Lani Chamness at Blackburn Territorial Headquarters. One of Lani’s wishes on arriving in Australia was to hug a koala. BY DEAN SIMPSON Colonels John and Lani Chamness received a cracker of an Aussie welcome earlier today at a “fun and buzzing” chapel service at Blackburn Territorial Headquarters in Melbourne. The officers of the USA Western Territory are settling into their new roles Down Under, John as Chief Secretary and Lani as Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Officer Leader Development. “There was a real vibe of excitement at the welcome service,” said one THQ staff member. “The place was buzzing, and the atmosphere was amazing – a sense of fun and joy in the room.” An Aussie flavour permeated the service, with Major Kim Haworth and Major Stuart Glover leading the way. Major Stuart Glover and Major Kim Haworth present their Australian Survival Kit. They presented the Chamnesses with an ‘Australian Survival Kit’ highlighting what is needed not only to “become part of the Australian context but to survive” – a large blow-up bat to keep the mozzies away, a can of Aerogard, stubby holders, boomerangs, Aussie socks, koala plush toys and cork hats. The Chamnesses drew laughter with their response: “What’s a mozzie?” During her introduction, Kim said John and Lani were “the right people for this time ... and they get us and our lingo! But you can feel the love of Jesus when speaking with them.” Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, in her welcome address, made it clear which AFL team she wanted the Americans to support, handing them Geelong Cats hats to the obvious disgruntlement of many in the congregation. Colonels John and Lani Chamness sporting their cork hats. Annemarie Watt, Head of Internal Communications, speaking on behalf of employees, offered some ‘Aussie advice’ to the Chamnesses, as an expat herself. She told the Chamnesses to remember that “ Everything  is abbreviated. So here you can head to the beach in the arvo, with your thongs and your esky, your lollies and your mates. You might want to pack the barbie and some sausages to make some snags. Don’t forget your swimmers and your brolly. Stop at the servo on the way for some Maccas, and when you get there, don’t forget to slip, slop, slap.” Annemarie Watt welcomes the Chamnesses with some Aussie advice. On a serious note, she added, “But what makes this country so great is the diversity and the people. Much like the Salvos and the people you see in front of you today. United in purpose and dedicated to the mission of The Salvation Army here in Australia.”  Major Adam Peterson, speaking on behalf of officers, continued the Aussie theme by addressing Lani and presenting her with Caramello Koalas: “Lani, you wanted to hug a koala ... consider these Caramello Koalas a gateway to koala-cuddling, but if you want to hold an actual koala, there are a few places in South East Queensland you can go to.” After the service, Lani took a step closer to achieving her wish when she and John encountered The Salvation Army’s Kidzone mascot, Cousin Koala. And, yes, Lani got her hug. The service also included meaningful worship led by Tim Lynn and Mel Fisk, and John and Lani were given an opportunity to respond to the warm welcome. Lani shared a story from her time in the Marshall Islands, when, as a young mother, she and her family were without water during a drought. An elderly woman told her, “Don’t you worry, the Lord will provide.” “And he did,” Lani said, explaining that this story encouraged her to live her life now trusting that the Lord will provide. Lani sings her song at the welcome service. Lani also sang the song ‘I Will Hope in My God’, inspired by her mother’s favourite Bible verse, Psalm 121. John said his many experiences as an officer had taught him the importance of being “willing to understand and learn from the people around us”. He shared a story about an appointment he had at the Kroc Community Centre in Idaho (USA), and how people came alongside them to support them because of the trust they placed in The Salvation Army. He said he felt privileged to be a part of the Australia Territory and spoke of transformation and the need for people “to love each other deeply, use their gifts, speak the very words of God ... and what you do does matter”. An Aussie morning tea followed, consisting of lamingtons, Tim Tams, Barbecue Shapes and Aussie party pies. An American treat, Reese’s peanut butter cups, was added to give the Chamnesses a taste of home. Commissioner Miriam Gluyas gives the thumbs up as she presents Colonel John and Lani Chamness with Geelong Cats AFL caps. All photos by Steve Haworth, Cheryl Tinker and Miriam Gluyas

The Salvation Army works with people from all walks of life experiencing different hardships.   “Working for justice is at the heart of what The Salvation Army does in Australia,” said Jennifer Kirkaldy, General Manager Policy and Advocacy, for The Salvation Army Australia. “It is integral to our ethos, our mission and our vision.”   As nations worldwide observe the UN World Day of Social Justice today (20 February), the Policy and Advocacy team reflects on its work and achievements over 2025. The Salvation Army Policy and Advocacy team 2025 – a year in review   1. The Social Justice Stocktake (the Stocktake) Throughout 2024, people across every state and territory were invited to share their experiences of social justice issues in their local communities through a Salvation Army survey. Participants were asked to identify the top five issues they were seeing and living with, suggest what could be done to address them, and share what they wanted decision-makers to understand.   The national results, released through the Stocktake in February 2025, provided a clear picture of the challenges facing communities. Housing affordability and homelessness emerged as the most pressing concerns, followed closely by mental health, financial hardship and inclusion, access to health care, alcohol and drug misuse, and climate change.   2. Federal Elections Throughout the 2025 federal election campaign, the Policy and Advocacy team aimed to equip communities, candidates, political staffers, and community leaders with electorate-specific insights that reflected the real-world concerns of their constituents.   A total of 779 emails were sent to election candidates, each including a tailored report highlighting the key social justice issues identified in their electorates. This proactive outreach generated significant interest, and the team held 49 meetings with election candidates.    3. Financial Hardship This year, the team worked with governments and parliaments to improve the experience of our community members when interacting with them.   In March, we worked with the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) to improve the application of concessions to energy bills for eligible consumers. We shared consumers’ experiences and explained that the current system and processes are not intuitive and prevent people in hardship from accessing the support for which they are eligible.    In August, we provided feedback on the administration of the ACT Home Buyer Concession Scheme, which allowed people experiencing risks and compounding factors to pay lower conveyancing duty when buying their home.    We urged the Revenue Office and the Committee to ensure that community members facing debt repayments are properly supported and referred to financial counselling services, such as The Salvation Army’s Moneycare.   4. Family and Domestic Violence The team strengthened The Salvation Army’s position as a leading voice in shaping a high‑quality domestic violence system that responds to the needs of the whole family.   Through targeted submissions and direct engagement with key decision‑makers, we showcased the proven impact of our Alexis Family Violence Response Model. This contributed to the Victorian Government’s announcement of a $1.5 million investment to extend Alexis to two additional sites.   Following our submission in 2024 to the South Australian Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, we were encouraged to see several of our recommendations reflected in the Royal Commission’s final report, released in August 2025.   5. Housing and Homelessness Throughout 2025, the team delivered high‑quality submissions to Commonwealth, state and territory consultations and inquiries. This ensured that the voices of people experiencing housing stress and homelessness, as well as the insights from our frontline services, were consistently represented at every level of government.   A significant achievement was the reform of the Territory Planning laws in the ACT. In line with our recommendations, the ACT Government introduced changes to designate public housing and Community Housing as Territory Priority Projects, streamlining approval processes for new developments.   Nationally, The Salvation Army continued to play a key role in the Everybody’s Home campaign, contributing expertise, amplifying community voices, and advocating directly to government. We helped secure: • Commitments to expanding social and affordable housing supply across the country. • Stronger recognition of housing as a foundational element of family violence prevention. • Increased federal investment in homelessness services and reforms to rental assistance.   Read The Salvation Army’s Social Justice Stocktake Report here

Commissioner Miriam Gluyas has had her term as Territorial Commander extended until mid-2027.  BY DEAN SIMPSON   General Lyndon Buckingham has approved a one-year extension to Commissioner Miriam Gluyas’ term as Territorial Commander of Australia.   This will extend the commissioner’s term to 1 July 2027.   Announcing the extension on behalf of the General, Chief Secretary Colonel John Chamness said he and his wife, Lani (Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Leader Development - Officers), were grateful for Miriam’s willingness to continue leading the Australia Territory.   “As she enters this extended season of service, our prayer is that she will know God’s sustaining grace, renewed strength and fresh joy in the ministry entrusted to her,” John said.   “We are thankful for the faithfulness and spirit with which she leads and serves.” Miriam was officially installed as Territorial Commander in February 2023 by the then-territorial leaders, Commissioners Robert and Janine Donaldson.   She quickly established a new rallying cry for the territory – ‘Jesus-centred, Spirit-led, hope revealed’ – which she has successfully promoted across the territory. Commissioner Miriam Gluyas with Colonels John and Lani Chamness on their arrival in Australia in January. She has built on this rallying cry with the introduction of The Way initiative, launched last weekend, which sets the spiritual direction for The Salvation Army’s future in Australia.   “I am looking forward to seeing the impact of The Way across our territory throughout 2026,” said Miriam.   “The focus is on discipleship, prayer, evangelism, spiritual warfare, and being on mission. This is the way of Jesus. This is our way, and forever. Let’s come along, sharpen the focus, be iron sharpens iron to and with one another, and then walk so closely in the footsteps of Rabbi Jesus that we are covered in his dust.”   John and Lani, who arrived in January from the United States, said they are fully supporting The Way and are excited to work alongside the Australia Territory Leadership team.   “We look forward to continuing to work together as a team, united in purpose, as we seek to see the Kingdom advance across the nation,” John said. ‌ “Please join me in praying for the future of our territory and for Commissioner Miriam as she continues to guide us in the year ahead. God bless.”