Outstanding reservist employers in the spotlight

The annual Defence Employer Support Awards has recognised leading employers across Australia for their support to their ADF reservists.

CAPTION: Major General Douglas Laidlaw poses with winners of Defence’s annual National Employer Support Awards at a formal dinner held at Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera. Photo by Private Michael Currie.

Assistant Minister for Defence Matt Thistlethwaite joined Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell, Secretary for Defence Greg Moriarty and other senior Defence leaders at the event in Brisbane.

Major General Douglas Laidlaw, Head of Joint Support Services Division and Head of ADF Reserves and Employer Support, said the awards showcase employers that have demonstrated outstanding support to their staff who conduct ADF service.

“Defence recognises and values the contribution made by ADF reservists and their employers,” Major General Laidlaw said.

“Across Australia, we have more than 31,000 active ADF reservists who contribute vital skills and capability to the defence of our nation.”

Employers of ADF reservists release their employees for periods of Defence service, including for compulsory call outs to assist with natural disasters and emergency operations.

“Having workplaces that support reservists is vital and ensures the ADF can operate at full capability in order to respond quickly and effectively to assist the Australian community and secure our national interests,” Major General Laidlaw said.

“Our reservists are a highly skilled, dynamic and disciplined workforce, whose service to our country during the COVID-19 pandemic, bushfires, floods and other disasters is made possible by the support of their employers.

“I commend the award-winning organisations and all the nominees for their continued support of our ADF reservists and their communities across Australia.”

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