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Rest and Recuperation

Rest and Recuperation
The term ‘Rest and Recuperation’ (R&R) is generic by nature and has widespread usage throughout the Services.  Eligibility is frequently linked to the Operational Welfare Package (Overseas) (OWP(O)), but certain deployments, not necessarily operational, may also qualify. 

The aim of R&R is to provide Service personnel, who have been mentally and physically challenged by continuous service, usually in an operational area, time to rest out of line and ‘recharge their batteries’ in order to sustain operational effectiveness.  The decision to grant R&R rests with the in-theatre operational commander.

R&R is not leave and is to be taken at a time, location and for a duration specified by the operational commander.  R&R may only be granted to individuals and units on periods of continuous operations in excess of 4 months.  R&R does not count against an individual’s entitlement to Annual Leave.

The maximum permissible period for each instance of R&R is 14 nights inclusive of travelling time.  The number of permissible periods of R&R is dependent upon expected tour length and is subject to the following restrictions:

1. Over 4 months (120 days) but less than 7 months (210 days) - one period of R&R.
2. Over 7 months but less than 11 months (330 days) – two periods of R&R.
3. Over 11 months – three periods of R&R.

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