ACT Public Service wins national veterans’ public sector employer of year award

The ACT Public Service has been named the nation’s public sector ‘Veterans’ Employer of the Year’ in the recent Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards.

The award recognises the proactive approach the ACT has taken to support Veterans to transition to civilian life, and to have a meaningful career in the ACT Public Service.

Minister for Seniors and Veterans, Gordon Ramsay said the Government’s Veterans’ Employment Strategy had been instrumental in the recruitment, retention and support of veterans and their families.

Minister Ramsay also acknowledged the many people who have contributed to its success.

“Our achievement in supporting Veterans and their families would not be possible without the ongoing support and advice from all of our stakeholders,” Minister Ramsay said.

“This includes the Ministerial Advisory Council for Veterans, our ACTPS Veterans’ Executive Champions, and all the Veterans’ and their families who have participated in our programs or have provided feedback.”

“We have created a better understanding of Veterans needs in the workplace and developed tools and resources to support them during their transition away from the defence force.”

“Some of the work that has been undertaken so far includes building a Veterans’ employment website, developing an employment register and initiating a mentor program.”

“Veterans are highly trained, with skills and capabilities that are an asset to the ACTPS.”

The mentor program is a key initiative for building on employees’ professional skills and connecting them with professional networks and individuals across the ACTPS.

The program currently has 30 participants, including Cameron Naughton who joined the ACTPS in 2015.

Mr Naughton has expressed his appreciation for the program.

“I am grateful for the support provided to me by the ACTPS, making such a significant career shift was difficult. However, the ACTGovernment workplace policy, management and assistance available through the mentor program has helped me a lot during my transition.”

When the program commenced in 2017, 35 ACTPS members had identified as veterans, as at May 2020, the number has increased to 189.

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