Defence recognises outstanding civilian employers of reservists

Civilian employers of Australian Defence Force (ADF) reservists were recognised for the outstanding support they provide at the recent Defence National Employer Support Awards.

Six organisations won their respective category and a further 11 were recognised with honourable mentions, with highlights including initiatives such as recognition of transferable skills, flexible human resource policies enabling reservists to complete their training requirements, and release of personnel to undertake Defence service.

Major Nic Kenter, ADF reservist and Westpac (Winner Private Sector – Large) employee said Westpac provided generous leave provisions to ensure reservists could undertake service commitments.

“Westpac’s ‘Military and Mates’ Employee Advocacy Group provides a forum and network for reservists looking to balance Westpac employment and reserve service, and educates leaders on the benefits of employing reservists,” Major Kenter said.

The awards are also an opportunity for civilian employers and Defence to recognise and celebrate the mutual benefits of a shared workforce with transferable skill sets.

Chief of Personnel, Lieutenant General Natasha Fox, AO, CSC, said the support of civilian organisations that employ ADF reservists was critical to growing the Australian Defence Force.

“Defence values the support of civilian employers who enable our reserve personnel to undertake service that is critical to Defence capability,” Lieutenant General Fox said.

“Organisations who are understanding, supportive and flexible ensure the Australian Defence Force can respond effectively to provide people where they are most needed.

“Your support is incredibly valued and I thank both the award-winning organisations and all of the nominees for their continued contribution to a strong ADF.”

The 2024 National Employer Support Award winners are:

Winner Private Sector – Small

We Fix It Pty Limited, Northern Territory.

Honourable Mention Private Sector – Small

Tamar Valley Wine Centre, Tasmania.

AGH Demolition & Asbestos Removal, Australian Capital Territory.

Winner Private Sector – Medium

On Deck Capital Australia, New South Wales.

Honourable Mention Private Sector – Medium

DEWC Services, South Australia.

Yardstick Advisory, Australian Capital Territory.

Winner Private Sector – Large

Westpac Banking, New South Wales.

Honourable Mention Private Sector – Large

Intrax Consulting Engineers Pty Ltd, Victoria.

Ausgrid, New South Wales.

Winner Not for Profit

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Western Australia.

Honourable Mention Not For Profit

Launceston Basketball Association Incorporated, Tasmania.

St Joseph’s Catholic College, Northern Territory.

Winner Public Sector

Alice Springs Hospital Pharmacy Department, Northern Territory.

Honourable Mention Public Sector

Kinross Primary School, Western Australia.

NSW Police – State Crime Command, New South Wales.

Cairns Regional Council, Queensland.

Public Sector – Defence:

Patrol Boat Group Headquarters, Northern Territory.

There are a number of ways organisations can engage with Defence in support of their employees' ADF Reserve service.

For more information on the Employer Support Awards and the Supportive Employer Program, visit: www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au

Media note

Media can access imagery/vision at https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/S20243382.