Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien MP has encouraged local businesses to nominate for a new national awards program recognising veterans and their employers.
Mr O’Brien said the inaugural Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards would celebrate Australian businesses that were employing veterans as well as veterans who were making a significant contribution to their workplace.
“Our ADF personnel leave the military with unique skills and are making valuable contributions to all kinds of businesses,” Mr O’Brien said.
“There are many organisations in Fairfax that have hired a veteran and are reaping the benefits.
“If you know a local business that employs veterans or a former ADF member who is doing outstanding work then please encourage them to nominate for an award.
“Raising awareness about the unique skills and talents former ADF personnel can bring to a workplace is another way that we honour the service and sacrifice of the people who defend our nation and values.”
Nominations for the awards close 22 December and can be submitted at http://www.veteransemployment.gov.au/awards
Westpac Chief Executive Consumer Bank and Chair of the Industry Advisory Committee for Veterans’ Employment George Frazis said the Prime Minister’s Veterans’ Employment Awards were a fantastic opportunity to recognise the unique skills veterans bring to our workplaces and the exciting opportunities that are out there for serving members making the transition.
“I encourage communities to get involved and nominate a worthy organisation, business or veteran for one or more of the award categories,” Mr Frazis said.
“It’s important for organisations to participate in the Awards to showcase the skills, expertise and value veterans are bringing to workplaces across the country.
“It is also an opportunity to recognise the achievements and hard work of companies, organisations and individuals in creating employment opportunities for veterans and supporting their transition into new workplaces.”
The winners will be announced at an award ceremony in March 2018 in Canberra that will be attended by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and other members of government.
The categories for the awards are:
- Leadership in Recruitment of Veterans
- Veteran Employee of the Year
- Veterans’ Employer of the Year – Large Business
- Veterans’ Employer of the Year – Small to Medium-Sized Business
- Veterans’ Employer of the Year – Public Sector Organisation
- Excellence in Supporting Veterans’ Employment
- Excellence in Supporting Spouse Employment