New Veterans Employment Commitment announced

Thousands of ex-service men and women across Australia are set to benefit from a new initiative to connect them with employment opportunities.

FILE PHOTO: Lance Corporal Alex Robinson gives the ascending signal during an underwater demolitions course at Defence Establishment Orchard Hills, Sydney. From 10 to 31 October 2018, Australian Army Work Divers from units across the Royal Australian Engineers took part in an Underwater Demolitions Course at ADF Dive School, HMAS Penguin. The course trained and qualified divers to construct and deploy a variety of demolition charges, enabling engineer units to clear or disable obstacles and terrain underwater. Photo by Corporal Tristan Kennedy.

Building on the success of the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program, a new Veterans Employment Commitment will be rolled out to businesses that want to benefit from the skills and experience of Australia’s veterans.

Minister for Veteran’s Affairs Darren Chester said Australians had enormous respect for the service of our veterans – and many employers already recognise the value of the skills and experiences of our veterans.

“We want to translate Australia’s culture of respect for veterans into action. Simply put, hiring a veteran is good for business,” Mr Chester said.

“This Veterans Employment Commitment will clearly identify businesses that provide career opportunities to veterans, that upskill and mentor them and that are focused on how to retain them.

“Our government has heard the calls to help our ex-service men and women when they transition from the defence forces into the civilian workforces.

“By connecting veterans to employers we can make the transition that bit easier.”

Mr Chester said businesses that sign the Commitment would be listed on the official veteransemployment.gov.au website, have their details shared with veterans looking for work and through networking events, as well as be able to use the commitment logo to advertise their support.

“DVA will ensure businesses meet their obligations set out in the commitment and businesses will be asked to recommit every two years.

“The Veterans Employment Commitment forms a suite of measures to recognise and respect veterans as we mark the conclusion of the Centenary of ANZAC.

“This commitment, combined with the new Veterans’ Covenant, Australian Veterans’ Card and lapel pin, are all designed to bring governments and businesses together to support the veterans of today and tomorrow.”

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government wanted to translate Australia’s culture of respect for veterans into action.

“Employers across the country are hunting for the sorts of skills and experience our service men and women gain through their service,” Mr Morrison said.

“Our government has heard the calls to help our ex-service men and women when they transition from the armed forces into the private and public workforces.

“By connecting veterans to employers through this initiative we can make the transition that bit easier.”

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