8 August 2025
Thirteen civilian employers of ADF reservists got to see employees in their military roles on Exercise Talisman Sabre during a Boss X immersion experience.
Boss X activities enable civilian employers to observe the training, skills, knowledge and capabilities that reservists take back to their civilian workplace.
Executive Officer and Director Nursing and Midwifery at SA Health, Tracy Carroll, got to see her reservist employee, Private Megan Hoile, in the field.
Private Hoile said having her civilian line manager see her in her military role was a once-in-a lifetime experience.
“I was really proud that my civilian employer got to see what I do in my role as an ADF reservist, and how my skills are transferred between both my civilian and military roles,” Private Hoile said.
Ms Carroll said the pivotal role of the ADF Reserves was clearly visible.
“It was so exciting to see Private Hoile as part of her unit, and so interesting to meet the other reservists also performing specialised roles. The skills on display and opportunities available to ADF reservists is incredible to see,” Ms Carroll said.
“As an employer supporting ADF reservists over many years, this five-day snapshot into the Australian Defence Force gave me greater insight into the bigger picture.”
Deputy Head Reserve and Cadet Support Division Commodore Grant O’Loughlan said Boss X highlighted how a shared workforce benefited the organisation, the employee and, more broadly, the community.
“Generating partnerships with industry to access and share talent is crucial,” Commodore O’Loughlan said.
“ADF reservists represent 33 per cent of the total ADF workforce and are a critical enabler in delivering operational capability, depth and crucial skills to Defence.”
For more information about opportunities available to reservists and their civilian employers, visit: Home - ADF Reserves and Employer Support
