Defence celebrated outstanding civilian employers of Australian Defence Force (ADF) reservists last night at the National Employer Support Awards in Sydney. 

The awards formally recognise civilian employers of ADF reservists for their commitment to supporting these employees in their workplace. 

Finalists of the National award are the country’s leading exceptional employers. Each has previously won their respective State or Territory Employer Support Award after being nominated by their reservist employee.

Attendees celebrated 48 finalists at the awards ceremony together with the Chief of Personnel Lieutenant General Natasha Fox AO, CSC and Head Reserve and Cadet Support Major General Douglas Laidlaw AM, CSC. 

Chief of Personnel, Lieutenant General Natasha Fox thanked all nominees for the National Employer Support Awards for showing an exceptional level of flexibility and understanding in supporting their reservists to serve our nation.  

“These awards are not only a celebration of the support provided by civilian employers, but also an opportunity to continue the recognition of Reserve service,” Lieutenant General Fox said. 

“It is a chance to inspire more businesses and organisations to employ ADF reservists who can bring capability, skills and leadership to workplaces across the country.

“The commitment these organisations have shown has not gone unnoticed. Your flexibility, understanding, and ongoing support to your reservist employees enables service.”

Reservists come from every corner of our country, from a range of professional and trade backgrounds, representing every stage of working life. They undertake specialist roles and provide surge capacity across all services and warfighting domains, including cyber and space.

Defence is committed to building a workforce with people from a variety of backgrounds that represent the Australian community we serve. We want more Australians to make an impact with a rich and rewarding career in the ADF. 

Winners of the National Employer Support Awards: 

•       Private Sector (Large): McMahon Holdings

•       Private Sector (Medium): Flanders Electric of Australia

•       Private Sector (Small): Karston Homes

•       Public Sector: Alice Springs Hospital Pharmacy Department

•       Public Sector (Defence): Defence Science and Technology Group

•       Not for Profit: St Andrews Hospital

For more information about the Employer Support Awards, or supporting reservists in the workplace, visit ADF Reserves and Employer Support.

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