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Griffith University has expanded on its existing work with Australian Defence Force veterans with the establishment of its new Griffith Veterans College.
Launched last week, the college is expected to support veterans in their journey towards higher education and career development.
Former Air Force Commodore Dave Paddison will lead the college, and says this is an ideal opportunity for veterans and current Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel to access academia through translating their transferable defence skills into career pathways.
“Veterans bring extraordinary skills, discipline and life experience to our campuses, and they deserve a higher education experience that recognises that from day one,” Paddison said.
“It gives our veterans and their families a clear front door to the University, staffed by people who understand military service, who can translate that service into academic and career pathways, and who walk with them during their studies.”
The college will see fee-free applications throughout the transition into university, credit pathways recognising military training and experience, veterans scholarships, and wellbeing support services.
“A veteran transitioning out of service is often navigating a career change, a health journey, a family adjustment and a return to study all at once,” Paddison said.
“The Veterans College is one team, supporting one veteran, across the whole journey.”
Following the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide finding that defence experience should be translated into academic and career paths, Griffith University’s vice-chancellor and president, Professor Carolyn Evans, said the college will achieve this.
“Around 3 per cent of Australians have served in the military, and they are significantly under-represented in higher education,” she said.
“Behind every statistic is someone who served their country and now wants to build the next chapter of their life.”
“The Veterans College is here to help them achieve that goal.”
Building on the existing Griffith University Veterans Program that has seen over 1,400 participants since 2023, the college continues to represent the university’s continued commitment to supporting Australia’s veterans.
The program has been well received by veterans, with former ADF member Tim Bresolin saying that the opportunities provided have been a “life changer”.
“This is the biggest opportunity I’ve received since leaving the military nine years ago,” Bresolin said.
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