1 December 2020
Babcock Australasia has joined 50 other companies that have pledged through Soldier On to support veterans through employment.
The 2020 Soldier On pledge was established by the national veteran support organisation to encourage signatories to recognise the skills within the ADF and veteran community and commit to providing veteran-friendly recruitment, retention, training and workplace culture.
At the signing of the pledge, Babcock Australasia CEO David Ruff said veterans made up a large proportion of Babcock’s defence and aviation businesses.
“Babcock is committed to integrating veterans into our business,” Mr Ruff said.
“We recognise the outstanding skills and experience they have to offer as Babcock continues to grow as a defence, aviation and critical services company.”
Babcock managing director defence Andy Davis said the Federal Government’s commitment to continuous naval shipbuilding gave companies like Babcock confidence to invest in long-term initiatives.
He said the building of facilities and a local workforce to support the Hunter-class frigate and Attack-class submarine builds were testament to this.
“It also means we can make enduring commitments to our community, such as the Soldier On Pledge,” he said.
We recognise the outstanding skills and experience veterans have to offer as Babcock continues to grow as a defence, aviation and critical services company.
The Soldier On Pathways Program is supported by funding from the Australian government and Department of Veterans’ Affairs Enhanced Employment Support for Veterans program.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said the government continued to put veterans and their families first with record investment in funding for mental health services and support for those in the ex-service community.
“While most ADF personnel experience a smooth transition and go on to contribute to the community in their civilian lives, we know this period can be quite challenging for some and initiatives like the Soldier On Pledge should be commended for the support they offer to the ADF and veteran community,” he said.
“This year has been a difficult one and I want to assure veterans and their families that they are at the forefront of the government’s thinking and urge anyone who is struggling to reach out.
“Help is available and you don’t have to go it alone.”
Babcock Australasia provides asset management, engineering, maintenance and refurbishment support services, and integrated logistical support for Defence capabilities, including the Collins-class submarines, Anzac-class frigates, Canberra-class landing helicopter dock and the Attack-class submarine program.
The Attack-class weapons discharge system is currently in design and will be manufactured in Australia under close supervision by Babcock’s engineering and supply chain teams.
