FEDERAL Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell has described the $24 million Veteran Employment Program as a ‘driver of veteran employment opportunities and an opportunity to see businesses benefit from a diverse skill set’.
With more than 6000 veterans transitioning from the Australian Defence Force every year, important skills can be brought to the civilian workforce at a time when skilled workers come at a premium.
The new Veteran Employment Program is designed to support veterans into good quality jobs by boosting recognition of their skills and experience while supporting further education and training for veterans wanting to move into the civilian workforce.
“The Veteran Employment Program helps employers understand the advantages of hiring veterans and is designed to appreciate and enhance veterans’ skills, this program also supports their further education and training,” Mr Mitchell said.
“There are so many benefits to employing a veteran in the diverse civilian workforce, they bring with them skills like leadership, teamwork, agility, discipline and an ability to work under pressure.”
Mr Mitchell said the program would ensure veterans’ formal and informal skills are properly recognised and understood in civilian workplaces and educational institutions.
“This program reinforces our dedication to veteran employment, recognising their diverse skills and facilitating their transition to civilian life.”
The Veteran Employment Program includes the establishment of a Recruitment Advisory Service Grant to support employers in targeting, building and sustaining veteran employment and retention, while prior learning frameworks and support for veterans pursuing further study within tertiary institutions are also prioritised.
The goal is to better recognise the pre-existing capability veterans have and make it easier for them to demonstrate their existing skills, gain official qualifications and be competitive in the labour market.
“The Veteran Employment Program will focus on making support to businesses more meaningful, to better support employers to foster environments where veterans can flourish,” Mr Mitchell said.
Information about the Veteran Employment Program and its initiatives, including applying for grants programs, is available at veteransemployment.gov.au.
