North Queensland-based engineering services business Key Solutions Group has been recognised for its supportive workplace policies that enable employees to access leave to undertake ADF Cadets staff duties.

Key Solutions Group was one of more than 60 employers across Australia recognised by Defence for its support through the ADF Cadet Staff Employer Recognition Program.

The program aims to acknowledge civilian businesses and workplaces supporting ADF cadet staff by providing leave and other support for training and cadet activities.

Tayla Brazil, a 105 (City of Mackay) Australian Air Force Cadets Squadron cadet staff member, nominated her employer for its unwavering support of her cadet staff service. 

“Key Solutions Group owner Frank Attard has been really awesome to work with – very accepting of me being a part of cadets and taking time off where needed,” Ms Brazil said.

“I've done many junior general service training activities and weekends away, so being able to take a week off a couple of times a year to do promotion courses and that kind of thing has been great.”

Cadet staff are critical to the success of ADF Cadets programs. The programs are the largest youth development initiative within Defence, engaging more than 30,000 young Australians nationwide. 

Mr Attard said it was an honour to be acknowledged for the support his company provided. 

“It was great to receive the formal letter of thanks and signed certificate as part of the ADF Cadet Staff Employer Recognition Program,” Mr Attard said. 

“As a company, I like to do what I can for the community. It’s great to be recognised as a community-focused organisation, so it’s wonderful to receive the award.”