MEDIA RELEASE

The annual Defence National Employer Support Awards recognised 44 employers of Australian Defence Force (ADF) reservists in Sydney on 21 November.

Employers were recognised for their support to reservists working within their organisation, including the release of employees for periods of service where they undertake work for Defence.

Chief of Personnel, Lieutenant General Natasha Fox, AO, CSC, thanked the civilian employers for their support and the contribution it makes to the Defence mission.

“Defence recognises the vital contribution of ADF reservists, who are highly skilled and disciplined,” Lieutenant General Fox said.

“Support and understanding from the employers of reservists enables the delivery of reserve capability and we couldn’t do what we need to without them.

“Having workplaces that show flexibility to reservists ensures the Australian Defence Force can call on our reservists to respond quickly and provide vital capability where it is most needed.

“I thank the award-winning organisations and all of the nominees for their continued support of our ADF reservists.”

The 2023 National Employer Support Award winners are:

* Private Sector (Large): Ensign Laboratories, Victoria

* Private Sector (Medium): Protegas, Queensland

* Private Sector (Small): Functional AF, Western Australia

* Public Sector: Queensland Police Service – Bob Atkinson (BAOCC), Queensland

* Public Sector: Fire and Rescue NSW, New South Wales

* Public Sector – Defence: Patrol Boat Group Headquarters, Northern Territory

* Not for Profit: St John WA, Western Australia

Honourable mentions went to:

* Private Sector (Large): Symbion, Queensland

* Private Sector (Medium): Talent Quarter, New South Wales

* Private Sector (Small): Humanihut, South Australia and Legear, Victoria

* Public Sector: Tasmania Government Department of Justice, Tasmania

* Not-For-Profit: Fit to Drive Foundation Incorporated, Victoria

There are a number of ways organisations can engage with Defence in support of their employees’ ADF Reserve service. For more information on the Employer Support Awards and the newly enhanced Supportive Employer Program, visit: www.reserveemployersupport.gov.au