Increased public sector employment opportunities for veterans

Former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) will benefit from a 12-month pilot program to identify at least 100 employment opportunities in the public service.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the program would position the public sector as an employer of choice to attract veterans, and ensure hiring managers were equipped to recognise the capabilities of ex-ADF members.

“We know our veterans have a valuable and transferable skill set and a demonstrated commitment to public service, however this hasn’t always translated into civilian employment opportunities,” the Premier said.

“Despite their demonstrated commitment to public service, a lack of understanding of defence force ranks, experiences and capabilities outside of the ADF has been a barrier to entering civilian employment.

“Around 5,000 personnel leave the ADF each year, with around 1,600 of those living in Queensland.

“As Queensland’s largest employer, the public service can take a lead role in supporting veterans into meaningful post-service employment.

“This new program is designed to match the existing skills of ex-ADF members with available roles in the public sector and help our veterans secure and transition into those roles.

“A virtual careers fair for veterans will be held in November 2018 to showcase the opportunities available.”

Coralee O’Rourke Minister for Communities, Disability Services and Seniors and MP for Mundingburra, whose electorate includes a large number of defence personnel and Lavarack Barracks, has been a strong advocate for the employment program and welcomed the announcement.

“This pilot program is another initiative of the Palaszczuk Government that will mean that members of the ADF will be able to get employment once they leave the defence force,” the Minister said.

“Townsville has a large public service sector and I am sure some of the jobs will become available to veterans in Townsville.  I encourage members of the ADF to check out the website and participate in the pilot program.”               

Earlier this year, the Palaszczuk Government met an election commitment to extend public transport concessions to Department of Veterans’ Affairs white card holders.

Further commitments to benefit veterans and their families are on track for delivery in the next 12 months. They include:

a $1.5 million grants program for support services and the creation, upkeep and maintenance of veterans’ memorials;

• the creation of an online veterans’ portal - a single information and service access point for ex-ADF members and their families in accessing services and supports in Queensland; and
• the opening of a one-stop shop for The Oasis Townsville to provide veterans’ welfare support and employment transition services.

 Veterans can access a variety of services at www.qld.gov.au/veterans

Media contacts: Michelle Wellington 0437 323 834