Veteran Employment Program launch

Today the Albanese Government has launched its $24 million Veteran Employment Program, an initiative aimed to boost veteran employment opportunities, as well as help businesses benefit from the diverse skill sets that veterans bring.

With more than 6,000 veterans transitioning from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) every year, they can bring fantastic skills gained in the ADF to the civilian workforce. Skills like leadership, teamwork and the ability to work under pressure.

The new Veteran Employment Program will 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 includes the establishment of a Recruitment Advisory Service Grant to support employers target, build and sustain veteran employment and retention.

The Program also features a Recognition of Prior Learning Grant that will provide funding to the tertiary sector in order to establish or enhance recognition of prior learning frameworks for veterans, as well as support for veterans pursuing further study within tertiary institutions.

This is in addition to a commitment from the Department of Defence to enhance their recognition of prior learning program, to improve both the assessment of skills, and granting of micro-credentials for the vocational skills that veterans acquire during service.

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. 

In 2024 a new advertising campaign will be launched promoting the great benefits veterans can bring to the civilian workforce.

Information about the Veteran Employment Program and the initiatives, including information on applying for the grants programs, is available on the veteransemployment.gov.au website.

Quotes attributed to Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh:

“The Albanese Government’s $24 million Veteran Employment Program will not only empower Australian veterans but also support civilian employers, building their understanding of the unique value veterans can bring to their businesses

“In the current tight labour market, skilled workers are in hot demand however many civilian businesses aren’t aware of the great opportunity that comes with employing a veteran. The Veteran Employment program will change that.

“The Veteran Employment Program will focus on making support to businesses more meaningful, to better support employers to foster environments where veterans can flourish.”

“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. This program will ensure their formal and informal skills are properly recognised and understood in civilian work places and educational institutions.

Quotes attributed to Assistant Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Thistlethwaite:

“Today's launch reinforces our dedication to veteran employment, recognising their diverse skills and facilitating their transition to civilian life.

“The Veteran Employment Program helps employers understand the advantages of hiring veterans.

“Designed to appreciate and enhance veterans' skills, this program also supports their further education and training.

“Veterans gain vital skills during service, such as leadership, teamwork, agility, discipline, and the ability to handle pressure – all highly sought-after in today's economy.”

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608