Supporting Reservists' civilian careers

DEFENCE Reservists and their civilian employers have been recognised across Australia for their outstanding contribution to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) through the Prince of Wales Awards.

Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the annual awards acknowledged the continued support of employers, providing ADF Reservists working in their organisation with the opportunity to up-skill in an area that will benefit their civilian career.

“We have more than 25,000 active Reservists who are supported by their civilian employers to contribute vital skills and capability to the defence of our nation,” Mr Chester said.

“You only need to look at the integral role our Reservists played in 2020 through the bushfire and coronavirus responses to get a glimpse at just how much they contribute to our nation.

“The Prince of Wales Awards recognises the incredible support provided by civilian employers in enabling our Reservists to answer the call when needed and fulfil their military service obligations.

“In an effort to give back to those employers, Defence provides funding for professional development and training for Reservists in areas that directly benefit their civilian career and their employer.

“I commend all the Award recipients and wish them well for their upcoming training and development.”

Defence provides direct support to ADF Reservists and their civilian employers through the Employer Support Payment Scheme and a range of engagement programs and activities.

 “With the 2021 Award submissions opening soon, I highly recommend all Reservists consider this opportunity for themselves and their employer,” Mr Chester said.

The full announcement of ADF reservist recipients of the 2020 Prince of Wales Award along with their civilian employers is available at www.defencereservessupport.gov.au. 

Imagery is available at: https://images.defence.gov.au/assets/Home/Search?Query=20210113ADF8663678_PoWA002.jpg&Type=Filename