Understanding Personnel Mobility Through a Human Lens – A Synthesis of Research on Postings and Relocation in the Canadian Armed Forces: A Research Note

Geographic instability resulting from postings and relocations is a recurring stressor for military members. To support military modernization efforts aimed at improving retention and quality of life in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), this article synthesizes research conducted within the Canadian Department of National Defence on CAF members’ experiences with domestic postings and relocations. The authors leverage this research to address three core questions: What are CAF members’ attitudes towards postings and relocation overall? What are the key impacts and areas of dissatisfaction? How do these aspects relate to retention? Findings highlight persistent concerns, including fairness in posting decisions, family impacts, spousal employment, housing, financial strain, and dissatisfaction with relocation services. Geographic instability is a leading reason why members consider leaving the CAF. The article draws comparisons with mobility and relocation reforms and supports among Five Eyes (FVEY) partners to contextualize the findings, offering insights and recommendations for policy-related modernization.