I begin by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on which we meet and I pay my respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
I want to acknowledge all of the veterans who are with is this evening, and all serving men and women of the ADF.
We have been so harshly reminded in recent months that the absence of war is no guarantor of safety for the men and women who serve in our name with such character, valour and integrity.
Every member of the ADF has my respect.
Another truth we must acknowledge is that the extraordinary bank of experience each veteran carries. The talent they have built up. The wisdom they have accrued. Veterans have so very much to offer.
Now in its sixth year, the Prime Minister’s National Veterans’ Employment Awards have stayed true to their original purpose.
To raise awareness of a simple fact: That veterans are every bit as skilled, dedicated and adaptable in civilian life as in the ADF.
The sooner we recognise that, the better off our workplaces our communities – and our veterans – will be.
I met an extraordinary group of veterans here in 2022.
And I’m looking forward to meeting the class of 2023.
‘Meticulous planners.’
‘Top performers.
‘Natural leaders.’
‘Driven’.
‘Committed’.
Those are some of the words used to describe tonight’s nominees.
Employees and entrepreneurs of proven merit.
Working in a remarkable range of industries.
In education and logistics. In administration, project management, IT and psychology.
There’s no single template for the way veterans apply their skills and experience.
And the partners of veterans are just as versatile.
They know what it means to put a career on hold, or take on an unfamiliar role in an unfamiliar place.
Their stories are about turning those challenges into futures.
Stretching themselves. Reaching for the horizon.
All the while supporting their loved ones, and their communities.
A veteran’s family is their strength.
I say to the families: I appreciate the great pride you must feel. I also recognise the sacrifice you have made. It is a burden you ultimately took on for all of us, and for that we express the depths of our appreciation.
The partners know the veteran’s path, because they’ve travelled it with them.
So, when you help a veteran’s partner and family, you help a veteran.
It’s so important that we recognise the contribution partners make to the wellbeing of our veterans.
Especially in the time after transition to civilian life — when challenges and uncertainties build.
Moving out of the ADF is a significant life event. And it’s a journey — not a moment.
The Veteran Transition Strategy that my Government launched in August is about making the transition journey the best it possibly can be.
And we’re starting off on the right foot.
Because even before they take the first steps out of the ADF, veterans are already prepared, enthusiastic, skilled and highly employable.
As leaders, planners, thinkers, and communicators, steeped in the values of the Australian Defence Force: service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence.
Tonight’s employer finalists know this.
You understand that what might be everyday tasks in a defence context, are actually a portfolio of skills and experience.
You know that when you employ a veteran, you’re not just taking on a new staff member, you’re grasping an opportunity.
Whether you’re a small business or a multinational, you know what works.
Veterans keep your businesses humming. And, in return, you offer not just jobs, but careers.
Not just a workplace, but meaningful connections.
The chance to be part of a team - and the pride that comes from shared success.
On behalf of all Australians, congratulations – and thank you.