Helping the Veterans You Employ

The benefits of employing a veteran in a defence business are numerous. These include an unrivalled understanding of the environment that goods and services will be used in, the ability to follow instructions and work in a team but also think on their feet, as well as invaluable leadership experience.

However, veterans also face unique challenges when they enter a non-military workplace. Given the high rate of suicide among veterans, employers need to be mindful of their duty of care.

The announcement of a Royal Commission into Defence and Veterans Suicide has shone a light on some of the challenges faced by military personnel returning to civilian life. If as an employer or manager you are concerned about the mental health of a veteran employee it is important to have a workplace culture in place where problems, concerns and issues can be discussed.

You may not have the skills to navigate an individual’s circumstances, so it is also important to be aware of third-party resources that are available.

The Department of Veterans Affairs is a good place to start. All veterans can access free mental health care for life through the DVA White Card (Non-Liability Health Care) and the Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling service.

Anzac Day 2021 - Kingscote dawn service on Kangaroo Island, South Australia.