Hundreds of Victorian veterans transitioning to civilian life will receive support to bring their extensive skills and experience to the public sector, with the Victorian Government setting a new employment target.
Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane today announced the Government has exceeded its existing goal to employ veterans in 750 Victorian public sector positions between June 2017 and June 2021, with veterans landing 767 roles in the timeframe.
The Government has now set a target to support veterans to secure an additional 750 roles in the public sector by June 2025, which would bring the total number of veterans taking up positions to 1,500.
These efforts are underpinned by the Public Sector Veteran Employment Strategy, which includes a range of initiatives supporting veterans to land jobs across the public sector, including with Victoria Police, Corrections Victoria and other departments and agencies.
While many veterans successfully transition out of the Australian Defence Force to civilian life, some experience challenges such as finding employment, in part because of the need to navigate new systems and processes.
The Employment Strategy aims to address these barriers while allowing the public sector to tap into the valuable skills, capabilities and experience of veterans.
Supports include the Veteran Mentor Program, which connects veterans already in the public sector with those interested in joining, and a Veteran Employee Network, which allows veterans working in the public sector to connect with each other, support newcomers and share insights and experiences.
Online resources and workshops offer advice for veterans on finding vacancies, applying for roles, and effectively communicating the skills and knowledge they've gained in military service.
The Victorian Government has provided more than $2.7 million to date for the Strategy, including a $1.3 million boost in the Victorian Budget 2021/22.
The Government is also working to employ more veterans on major Government infrastructure projects and continues to promote the value veterans can offer to the private sector, informed by experts across industry, education and training providers, Defence, ex-service organisations and Government.
As stated by Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane
"We want as many veterans as possible to join Victoria's public sector because we know the enormous value they offer, including skills in leadership, innovation, project management and excellent communication."
"Employing veterans in at least 1,500 public sector roles by 2025 will be a great win for our state."
As stated by Veterans Employment Advocate Major General David McLachlan AO
"We have been incredibly successful in supporting veterans to transition to civilian life through meaningful employment, and the public sector is benefiting from their exceptional skills and experience. It's a win-win."
