What to look for in an employer
Many employers value the skills and experience gained through the ADF and are taking a more deliberate approach to attracting and supporting veteran and partner employees.
If you are exploring your next role, it can help to look beyond the job description and focus on how an organisation brings veterans into the workforce and what support is in place once you are there.
This can start with a strong public leadership commitment, demonstrated by organisations that invest in long-term programs that support study, wellbeing and employment pathways for veterans and families of veterans.
Flinders University, a Veteran Employer of Choice under the Veteran Employment Commitment (VEC), is demonstrating such leadership. Professor Ben Wadham, Director of the Open Door: Improving the Wellbeing of Veterans, Public Safety Personnel, and their Families research initiative, says the university’s commitment to veterans is grounded in recognising their capability, not just their service.
‘Through Open Door and the Military Academic Pathways Program, we provide integrated support across study, wellbeing, and employment,’ Professor Wadham says. ‘This enables veterans and their families to thrive while strengthening Flinders University with their diverse skills and perspectives.’
Together, the two initiatives reflect a sustained commitment to strengthening education outcomes for veterans and supporting positive employment opportunities.
Clear, visible, veteran-inclusive recruitment practices are another way that employers help veterans understand where their skills and experience fit, while signalling that they recognise and value what they bring. This can include tailored information on careers websites, internal employee referral networks, and job advertisements that clearly state where Defence experience is valued.
Once in the door, it is important to understand how an organisation supports and retains its veteran employees. This can include providing time to attend commemorative events, offering mentoring, and establishing veteran employee networks.
As you explore different industries, the Veteran Employment Program ‘Find a VEC organisation’ tool helps you compare employers by location, industry and the supports they offer.
Looking for clear recruitment pathways, structured workplace support and visible public commitment, can help you identify organisations where your skills and experience will be recognised.