Minister Chester congratulated winning organisations and thanked all employers throughout Australia that are committed to supporting their Defence Reservist employees, noting that Reservists are a vital capability to the operation of the ADF.

"The Employer Support Awards acknowledge the contributions made by employers of Reservists at the state, territory and national levels," Minister Chester said.

"Every day, employers across the nation support Defence Force Reservists through a range of flexible working arrangements and policies.

"The support provided is not only valued by individual Reservists, but also by the Australian Defence Force."

The minister said there was no doubt Australian business and industry stand to gain significantly from employing and supporting Australian Defence Force Reservists.

“Reservists are highly disciplined team players with a positive work ethic, and have the confidence to accept responsibilities, and they bring these valuable skills back to their civilian workplaces," he said

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"The experience and expertise they gain from their Defence service assists them in their civilian work environment and shapes them as better employees."

The winners announced at the awards were:

• Private Sector Small Business: Greg Beh Pty Ltd (Qld)

• Private Sector Medium Business: Horizon Christian School (SA)

• Private Sector Large Business: Westpac Banking Corporation (NSW)

• Public Sector: Country Health SA (SA)

• Not for Profit Sector: Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council (Qld).