The transition from service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to civilian life can present unique challenges, but as veteran Heath Smith describes, what comes hand-in-hand with those challenges are exciting opportunities.

It was his passion for mechanics and a desire to serve his country that motivated former Able Seaman Adrian Thomas to join the Navy as a marine technician, straight out of high school.

‘Creativity and a passion to start his own business’ are what lead to veteran Simon Payne leaving the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in 2013 after 6 years serving as a Trooper in the Royal Australian Armoured Corps.

Major General Stuart Smith AO DSC (Retd) has been appointed as the inaugural Defence Engagement Commissioner for an initial 12-month period.

Bradley Gibb joined the Navy in 2006, completing nearly 14 years’ service in the ADF before medically transitioning in August 2020. He now works for Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling as a community and peer advisor.

David French joined the Australian Army in 1996 as an Officer Cadet. After 21 years of service, he made the decision to discharge from the Army in 2016.

As a country high school teacher, providing career advice to his students, Michael De Groot felt he had to practice what he preached and explore the career opportunities offered by the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

“Defence gives you very usable skills, especially in organisation, governance and logistics. It instils resilience which has been essential in helping with my remote living.”

For Andrew Schmidt, who joined the Army straight out of school, his transition from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is a chance to reconnect with the broader community and be closer to his family.

Andrew Dyer joined the Australian Defence Force as an Infantry Soldier in 1992. After 25 years of working in the physically demanding role he started to notice the toll it was taking on his body and transferred to the Army Reserves.