ADF recognises domestic employers for supporting reservists

Civilian employers were recognised for their flexibility, understanding or support of reservists working within their organisation and the release of those individuals for periods of service where they undertake work for Defence.

Chief of Personnel, Lieutenant General Natasha Fox, AO, CSC, said the ADF thanked the civilian employers for their support and the contribution it makes to the Defence mission.

“Defence recognises the vital contribution of ADF reservists, who are highly skilled and disciplined,” LTGEN Fox said.

“Support and understanding from the employers of reservists enables the delivery of reserve capability and we couldn’t do what we need to without them.

“Having workplaces that show flexibility to reservists ensures the Australian Defence Force can call on our reservists to respond quickly and provide vital capability where it is most needed.

“I thank the award-winning organisations and all of the nominees for their continued support of our ADF reservists.”

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The 2023 National Employer Support Award winners included Victoria’s Ensign Laboratories (Private Sector Large), Queensland’s Protegas (Private Sector Medium), Western Australia’s Functional AF (Private Sector Small), and Western Australia’s St John WA (Not For Profit).

Public sector winners included Fire and Rescue NSW, Defence: Patrol Boat Group Headquarters and Queensland Police Service Bob Atkinson.

Honourable mentions went to Symbion, Talent Quarter, Humanihut, Tasmania Government Department of Justice as well as Fit to Drive Foundation Incorporated.

Organisations can engage with Defence in support of their employees’ ADF Reserve service through the Employer Support Awards and the newly enhanced Supportive Employer Program at www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au.

The Australian Defence Force recommends reservists as highly trained personnel who contribute discipline, focus, leadership and training to civilian employer environments. Reservists may receive nationally recognised qualifications as part of their training including in areas of project management, contract management, first aid, performance management, workplace health and safety, advanced communications, driving vehicles, and operation of heavy machinery.

Employers of reservists may also be eligible to receive financial assistance through the Employer Support Payment Scheme when their employee is undertaking Defence service; and/or be formally recognised as part of the annual National Employer Support Awards program.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.