Prime Minister’s National Veterans’ Employment Awards winners announced
Zilor Group, an Australian veteran-owned business, was the stand-out winner at this year’s Prime Minister’s National Veterans’ Employment Awards, picking up both the Small Employer of the Year Award and the overall Outstanding Employer of the Year Award.
The awards, now in their sixth year, honour veterans who have transitioned into successful civilian careers from the ADF while shedding light on the untapped potential these individuals and their partners offer to the Australian workforce.
Announcing the winners in Canberra in September, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the primary message of the evening was clear: veterans are every bit as skilled, dedicated and adaptable in civilian life as they have been in the ADF.
‘The sooner we recognise this, the better off all our workplaces, but as well our communities – as well as our veterans – will be,’ the Prime Minister said.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and co-presenter of the awards, Matt Keogh, echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments: ‘After listening to your stories, reading your citations, I don’t think any employer can be in doubt about how their organisation could benefit from recruiting veterans and veteran families into their civilian workforce, no matter the industry.’
The awards acknowledge organisations that actively recruit, employ and support veterans and their families in the civilian workforce.
Zilor Group specialises in management consulting, strategy transformation and IT service delivery. It has made a positive impact on the veteran community by continuing to provide employment opportunities and unwavering support to those who have served our nation, and their families. With a small but robust team that understands the unique challenges veterans face, they are a shining example of how dedication and innovation can truly make a difference.
Veterans develop strong problem-solving abilities in the ADF and it is no surprise that many veterans start their own businesses after transitioning to civilian-life. This was the case for Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year Nathan Bligh, who harnessed his ADF experiences and knowledge to establish Informatech, his thriving information and communications technology consultancy.
The Prime Minister also recognised the partners of veterans, acknowledging the invaluable support they provide. ‘The partners know the veterans’ path, because they have travelled it with them. So when you help a veteran’s partner and family, you certainly help a veteran,’ he said.
The event was a night of celebration and inspiration, spotlighting the important contribution veterans make to civilian workplaces and their determination to thrive in their post-service careers.
Find out more about the winners and finalists on the awards' website.
Image: Matthew Lodden, Jake Milazzo, Matthew Rosenthal, Minister Matt Keogh and Rhys Faulder