Veterans’ transition to employment in NSW on the right track
The NSW Government held the annual Veterans Employment Roundtable at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park today focussing on collaborative communication to assist veterans transitioning from the Defence Force into private and public sector employment.
Around 1,200 Defence Force personnel transition to employment in NSW every year.
Minister for Veterans David Harris hosted public and private sector stakeholders along with veterans’ support and employment organisations to foster ongoing discussions and initiatives for veterans career opportunities after their service.
Roundtables have been held since 2020, with a focus on the work that government can do in partnership with private employers, to foster increased collaboration and supports to ensure veterans find meaningful employment.
This year’s Roundtable had a special focus on communication, and a key goal was to build opportunities between organisations to effectively share information about services and communications to reach and assist veterans in their job search.
Mark Bransdon, an Army Veteran of 22 years service, discharged in 2019 and is now the Learning and Development Officer at Campbelltown City Council. He shared his story with the Roundtable, highlighting the value to veterans transitioning to employment outside of the Defence Forces.
The NSW Government is committed to honouring our veterans and their families, and the NSW Veterans Strategy and 2023-2024 Action Plan ensures that the veteran community is supported. One of the strategy actions is the organisation of an annual NSW Veterans Employment Roundtable.
The NSW Government Veterans Employment Program leads the way in assisting veterans finding roles within the NSW public sector. For more information visit www.vep.veterans.nsw.gov.au/
Minister for Veterans, David Harris said:
“It was great to meet key leaders in the employment field to discuss how we can all work together and assist veterans with their job search and use the skills they have learnt while serving in the Australian Defence Force.
“Their unique skillset enables them to work in a range of sectors and contribute positively to the NSW economy and community.
“We understand it can be challenging for some veterans to apply for work after their service.
“Today’s discussions are a positive step forward to ensure our veterans have a clearer path and a smoother transition from military service to civilian life.”
Army veteran of 22 years and Learning and Development Officer at Campbelltown City Council, Mark Bransdon said:
“I have brought a lived experience to Campbelltown City Council with my transition.
“The hiring manager for the role I applied for was aware of the skills I learnt in Defence, that I could bring to the role. That made a big difference to my transition.
The opportunities moving forward are that we can share this information with other councils and organisations to make it easier for them to implement a program assists veterans transitioning.
“Councils are also a beneficiary as they employ someone with great skills that can add value to their organisation.”
MEDIA: Alison Ayres | Minister Harris | 0488 463 648