Are you interested in employing
a former member of the Australian Defence Force?
Former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members have an extensive range of skills and attributes that can make
them valuable employees in the civilian workforce. This information sheet provides details on how employers can
benefit from supporting an injured former ADF member in developing work skills and finding and maintaining
suitable civilian employment.
Introduction
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides support to injured former members of the ADF, including
the provision of rehabilitation initiatives and assistance in finding suitable and sustainable civilian work. This
can include vocational assessment and training, work preparation activities and work experience with suitable
employers.
What we are looking for
DVA is seeking employers of any size business and from any industry who may be interested in employing a former
ADF member or hosting a work trial.
Work trial
A work trial is a work experience placement where a former ADF member undergoing a rehabilitation plan is placed
with a suitable employer for an agreed period of time (usually 12 weeks). The former member may work full-time,
part-time or have a graduated return to work.
The work trial is designed to assist the former member in developing skills and preparing them for suitable
civilian employment.
During the work trial, DVA will continue to pay the former member an income replacement payment. DVA will
also cover the employer’s costs for any essential training, workplace modifications or workplace aids and appliances
needed for the purpose of the work trial.
DVA will provide injury insurance and public liability coverage for the member for the duration of the work trial,
however the employer will have the normal obligations under work health and safety laws. The member is expected
to demonstrate the same level of discipline and conduct displayed by any other employee of your organisation.
Benefits for employers
There are extensive benefits to having a former ADF member join a business for either a work trial or permanent
employment. ADF members acquire a broad range of skills through their military service and training that are
transferable to civilian employment. These include their ability to:
• learn new skills quickly;
• communicate effectively with staff of all levels;
• complete tasks efficiently and on time;
• work independently or as part of a team;
• demonstrate leadership and take personal responsibility; and
• work with a variety of people from different backgrounds and with varying levels of experience.
Next steps
Employers who are interested in hosting a work trial or employing a former ADF member can contact DVA on
(07) 3223 8799 or at rehabreferrals.brisbane@dva.gov.au
If a work trial or employment is offered, the member will be matched according to their skills, experience,
abilities and goals with the business type and needs. An employment specialist working with DVA will then contact
the employer to discuss the next steps.
The employer will have an opportunity to discuss the circumstances of any work trial or employment before it
commences.
Assessment of the work trial or employment
P02780 Sept 2014
DVA is always looking to improve its rehabilitation initiatives and the outcomes that can be achieved. Employers
hosting a former ADF member will be asked to provide feedback on their experiences through a couple of brief
surveys.
The information collected will help DVA better target its initiatives and outcomes for future former ADF
members undergoing a rehabilitation plan.
For more information on DVA’s rehabilitation services visit www.dva.gov.au/rehabilitation