A renewed Veteran Employment Commitment
DVA launched the renewed Veteran Employment Commitment (VEC) in April 2024, introducing a multi-level model to support employers of all sizes to create workplaces where veterans can thrive.
This new approach gives practical support and resources to encourage organisations to provide greater employment opportunities and assistance for those who have separated from the ADF. It empowers employers to publicly demonstrate the importance their business places on the skills, values and experience that veterans bring to civilian workplaces.
Employers who sign on to the renewed VEC can be recognised at one of 3 levels:
- Veteran Employment Supporter
- Veteran Friendly Employer
- Veteran Employer of Choice.
An organisation’s level is determined by the veteran employment activities it undertakes across 3 categories: Recruitment; Support and Retention; Leadership and Public Commitment.
To assist employers to implement the VEC activities, a range of guidance materials and practical tools is available from www.veteransemployment.gov.au.
Members of the VEC receive a logo identifying their VEC level and a profile on the portal to link potential veteran recruits to their website.
The ‘veteran employment supporters’ search function has been updated to allow veterans to search for VEC members in their local region. The search function also allows users to filter by industry type, company size and veteran-specific employment supports such as employment programs, mentoring or veteran employee networks.
Army veteran Matt Evans, who works in the mining industry, has first-hand experience trying to find an employer that’s a good fit. When Matt heard about the renewed VEC, he gave it his tick of approval.
‘Being able to search for employers who are veteran-friendly is a massive step in the right direction!’ says Matt. ‘The renewed VEC will bring that and I hope many more veterans can use this tool to make their journey more successful. I struggled for a long time to find a job that gave me meaning and recognised my skills and experience, so I am really excited that the Government is leading the way in setting a benchmark.’
All organisations that sign onto the VEC will receive access to employer support and resources from DVA on how to better recruit, retain and support veteran employees. Each level of the VEC offers additional benefits, which may include invitations to exhibit at ADF Transition Seminars, opportunities to be showcased and present at forums and networking events.
To sign up, visit the Veteran Employment Program website and submit an application form providing documentation that demonstrates your activities to support veteran employment.
If you have previously signed the VEC, you are encouraged to re-apply and have until 30 November 2024 to complete the new application form and upload your supporting documentation before the old VEC signatories are removed from the website. This can be as simple as providing your website address and screenshot images.
By re-applying, you will ensure your organisation remains one of the growing number of Veteran Employment Commitment supporters and continues to receive the benefits this offers. Don’t hesitate – sign up today to show your support for veteran employment!
Image: Army veteran Matt Evans