Nominations for Veterans’ Employment Awards now open

Minister for Veterans' Affairs

NOMINATIONS for the 2021 Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards, which recognise the contributions made by veterans in the civilian workforce and the organisations that support them, are now open.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said many businesses were doing it tough, but in the face of this adversity, organisations were adapting and thinking innovatively, and embracing the skills and experience of our veterans.

“Service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) teaches and hones skills and abilities that stack up in the civilian workforce, particularly as we face the current challenges,” the Prime Minister said.

“Complex problem-solving, leadership and a willingness to have a go. These all come with hiring a veteran and will help you get the most out of your business and your other employees.

“The Awards are an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate these veterans, and the organisations from across Australia who employ them and their families.

“I encourage any veteran or organisation that is committed to veteran employment to nominate for the 2021 Awards.”

More than 300 organisations of all sizes have now signed up to the Veterans’ Employment Commitment which means that employers are hearing the message that veterans are good for business and are putting this into action.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said that along with mental health and transition support, employment was one of the top priority areas for the Government.

“The Government is committed to supporting the successful transition and mental health for ADF members, which includes helping them get a job after service,” Mr Chester said.

“The successful Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program and the Awards are an important part of showcasing to the Australian community how veterans are an asset to any workplace.

“The 2020–21 Budget provided a further $6 million to continue this program as well as to provide training for veterans looking to start their own business.

“Since inception, the Awards have illustrated how entrepreneurial our veterans are and the Government is providing support through Prince’s Trust Australia to provide them with the training to succeed.”

The Awards are part of the broader Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Program, which is aimed at building an understanding in the greater community of the valuable skills ADF personnel possess.

Nominations for the Awards are now open online.

/Public Release.