News articles from 2007.
December 2007
18 December 2007
November 2007
26 November 2007
20 November 2007
October 2007
12 October 2007
August 2007
31 August 2007
17 August 2007
3 August 2007
3 August 2007
July 2007
27 July 2007
27 July 2007
24 July 2007
June 2007
28 June 2007
6 June 2007
May 2007
31 May 2007
April 2007
26 April 2007
2 April 2007
The "Employer Handbook – Everything you need to know about employing Reservists" is designed to help employers understand their rights and responsibilities as an employer of Defence Force Reservists. It aims to provide information about the key support initiatives and relevant contact details.
March 2007
1 March 2007
January 2007
9 January 2007
18 December 2007
Thank you and farewell
Every organisation has them – individuals busily working with the community, implementing policy and obtaining feedback on the successes and challenges of the organisation’s activities.
In DRS we call them ‘Liaison Officers’ and each State and Territory has one. They help develop that very important relationship between employers, Reservists and the Australian Defence Force.
In 2008, three Liaison Officers are moving onto new roles. Owen Schubert, Rob O’Brien and Dave Thomson have all achieved much in promoting Defence Reserves while in their Liaison Officer roles.
Major Owen Schubert is moving on to be the Second-in-Command of the 9th Combat Service Support Battalion at Warradale after seven months as Liaison Officer for South Australia. Reflecting upon his period as a Liaison Officer, MAJ Schubert says he has thoroughly enjoyed being at the interface with the community.
“I have learnt so much about the Reserve fraternity in South Australia and the great work DRS-SA does for Reservists, employers and the community. Every activity DRS-SA has undertaken this year has gone extremely well. This is because of the team effort that goes into them," he said.
Major Robert O’Brien has spent four years as the Victorian Liaison Officer and is moving to the Victoria Barracks in Melbourne where he will become Fleet Manager for the Australian Light Armoured Vehicles stationed there.
“I’m looking forward to this new challenge. Moving assets instead of people is something I’ll have to adjust to," he said. MAJ O’Brien says he’s particularly proud of the Exercise Boss Lift exercise he coordinated to Malaysia in 2004 as well as the many Exercise Executive Stretch activities conducted in Victoria.
“Exercise Executive Stretch has led to greater community understanding and involvement in Reserve activities and I believe the state office is well positioned to capitalise on that into the future.”
Major David Thomson, in Queensland, will head to Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera where he will be Headquarters 1st Division’s Safety and Risk Manager. MAJ Thomson is a little sad to be leaving his position as Liaison Officer. “I’m actually leaving a job I’ve really enjoyed at DRS. I’ve taken a lot from working with such a broad range of community people and staff,” he said.
MAJ Thomson is particularly impressed with the hard-working Regional Committees for their continued support of local units.
“These committees, made up of civic-minded volunteers continue to raise community awareness of Reserve activities. They provide a two-way street between employers and the ADF.”
On behalf of the many employers, Reservists and community members in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and nationally, we extend our thanks and appreciation and wish them all well in their new ventures.
Every organisation has them – individuals busily working with the community, implementing policy and obtaining feedback on the successes and challenges of the organisation’s activities.
In DRS we call them ‘Liaison Officers’ and each State and Territory has one. They help develop that very important relationship between employers, Reservists and the Australian Defence Force.
In 2008, three Liaison Officers are moving onto new roles. Owen Schubert, Rob O’Brien and Dave Thomson have all achieved much in promoting Defence Reserves while in their Liaison Officer roles.
Major Owen Schubert is moving on to be the Second-in-Command of the 9th Combat Service Support Battalion at Warradale after seven months as Liaison Officer for South Australia. Reflecting upon his period as a Liaison Officer, MAJ Schubert says he has thoroughly enjoyed being at the interface with the community.
“I have learnt so much about the Reserve fraternity in South Australia and the great work DRS-SA does for Reservists, employers and the community. Every activity DRS-SA has undertaken this year has gone extremely well. This is because of the team effort that goes into them," he said.
Major Robert O’Brien has spent four years as the Victorian Liaison Officer and is moving to the Victoria Barracks in Melbourne where he will become Fleet Manager for the Australian Light Armoured Vehicles stationed there.
“I’m looking forward to this new challenge. Moving assets instead of people is something I’ll have to adjust to," he said. MAJ O’Brien says he’s particularly proud of the Exercise Boss Lift exercise he coordinated to Malaysia in 2004 as well as the many Exercise Executive Stretch activities conducted in Victoria.
“Exercise Executive Stretch has led to greater community understanding and involvement in Reserve activities and I believe the state office is well positioned to capitalise on that into the future.”
Major David Thomson, in Queensland, will head to Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera where he will be Headquarters 1st Division’s Safety and Risk Manager. MAJ Thomson is a little sad to be leaving his position as Liaison Officer. “I’m actually leaving a job I’ve really enjoyed at DRS. I’ve taken a lot from working with such a broad range of community people and staff,” he said.
MAJ Thomson is particularly impressed with the hard-working Regional Committees for their continued support of local units.
“These committees, made up of civic-minded volunteers continue to raise community awareness of Reserve activities. They provide a two-way street between employers and the ADF.”
On behalf of the many employers, Reservists and community members in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and nationally, we extend our thanks and appreciation and wish them all well in their new ventures.
November 2007
26 November 2007
Reservists now have access to DASS
Reservists are now eligible for support through the Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS).
Head Reserve and Employer Support Division and Assistant Chief of the Defence Force (Reserves) Major General Greg Melick recently announced the two-year DASS trial for members of the High Readiness, Active and Specialist Reserves.
Introduced as a single replacement for the former Services Vocational and Educational Training Scheme (SVETS) and Defence Force Assisted Study Scheme (DFASS), DASS has proven itself to be a valuable tool in helping members to access training and development opportunities based on mutual Defence-member obligation, but initiated by the member.
“Access to DASS is a great benefit that has now flowed on to all Reservists with a training commitment,” said MAJGEN Melick.
“While Reservists on Continuous Full Time Service (CFTS) of 12 months or longer have always been able to access DASS, this access has now been extended to Reservists serving on training days.”
DASS caters for a range of training and development opportunities but is not an automatic right or entitlement. While the rates of reimbursement are a good indicator, Defence cannot guarantee these levels as it depends on the number of applicants and the support sought.
However, support is provided on a tiered basis. Level 1 can attract up to $4000 per year reimbursement, Level 2 - $2000 and Level 3 - $1000.
“The two-year trial will be funded through Reserve and Employer Support Division,” said MAJGEN Melick.
“During this trial period we will be able to assess how well it is working and what benefit it brings to enhancing Defence capability. Following the trial, the Services will then be able to make their own decisions regarding on-going funding.
“However, we need to keep in mind that the aims of DASS are to improve the in-service study opportunities for military personnel of all rank levels and to encourage individuals to consider professional training and education options throughout their careers.
“It is not to provide for the development of job-specific training or military career progression qualifications as these firmly remain the responsibility of the individual Services.”
Go to the Info for Reservists section of our website (www.defence.gov.au/reserves) and click on the DASS link for further information
Reservists are now eligible for support through the Defence Assisted Study Scheme (DASS).
Head Reserve and Employer Support Division and Assistant Chief of the Defence Force (Reserves) Major General Greg Melick recently announced the two-year DASS trial for members of the High Readiness, Active and Specialist Reserves.
Introduced as a single replacement for the former Services Vocational and Educational Training Scheme (SVETS) and Defence Force Assisted Study Scheme (DFASS), DASS has proven itself to be a valuable tool in helping members to access training and development opportunities based on mutual Defence-member obligation, but initiated by the member.
“Access to DASS is a great benefit that has now flowed on to all Reservists with a training commitment,” said MAJGEN Melick.
“While Reservists on Continuous Full Time Service (CFTS) of 12 months or longer have always been able to access DASS, this access has now been extended to Reservists serving on training days.”
DASS caters for a range of training and development opportunities but is not an automatic right or entitlement. While the rates of reimbursement are a good indicator, Defence cannot guarantee these levels as it depends on the number of applicants and the support sought.
However, support is provided on a tiered basis. Level 1 can attract up to $4000 per year reimbursement, Level 2 - $2000 and Level 3 - $1000.
“The two-year trial will be funded through Reserve and Employer Support Division,” said MAJGEN Melick.
“During this trial period we will be able to assess how well it is working and what benefit it brings to enhancing Defence capability. Following the trial, the Services will then be able to make their own decisions regarding on-going funding.
“However, we need to keep in mind that the aims of DASS are to improve the in-service study opportunities for military personnel of all rank levels and to encourage individuals to consider professional training and education options throughout their careers.
“It is not to provide for the development of job-specific training or military career progression qualifications as these firmly remain the responsibility of the individual Services.”
Go to the Info for Reservists section of our website (www.defence.gov.au/reserves) and click on the DASS link for further information
20 November 2007
Australian and United States Reservists - Learning from Each Other
The close cooperation existing between the Australian and the United States military is widely known from the days of World Wars 1 and 2, Korea, and Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan today.
What may not be as widely known is that the close cooperation also extends to the Reserve Forces. During two weeks in October, two of the United States Navy Reserve (USNR) joined with their Aussie peers to complete Phase Three of the Royal Australian Navy Reserves Staff Acquaint Course in Canberra.
Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) David Shaieb, USNR and LCDR Arthur Fong, USNR flew into Australia on 6 October to begin the two-week Phase Three Staff Acquaint Course – designed to further develop Reserve Naval Officers’ leadership, management and staff skills in preparation for enhanced responsibility in their naval careers.
The close cooperation existing between the Australian and the United States military is widely known from the days of World Wars 1 and 2, Korea, and Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan today. What may not be as widely known is that the close cooperation also extends to the Reserve Forces. During two weeks in October, two of the United States Navy Reserve (USNR) joined with their Aussie peers to complete Phase Three of the Royal Australian Navy Reserves Staff Acquaint Course in Canberra.
Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) David Shaieb, USNR and LCDR Arthur Fong, USNR flew into Australia on 6 October to begin the two-week Phase Three Staff Acquaint Course – designed to further develop Reserve Naval Officers’ leadership, management and staff skills in preparation for enhanced responsibility in their naval careers.
David is a veteran of service with the United States Navy having spent 27 years as either a permanent Naval Officer or as a Reservist. He is currently employed as a financial project manager by the Intel Corporation. He talks about how supportive Intel is of his Reserve service: “Intel has a supportive leave policy in recognition of the positive attributes that Reservists bring to the workplace as a result of their Reserve training and operational experience – things like military discipline, a capability for strategy development, leadership, problem solving and time management. Overall though it is the mindset of getting the job done that most attracts Intel to employing Reservists.”
LCDR Arthur Fong agrees that his experience with his employer, the Los Angeles Police Department, mirrors that of David. As a Senior System Analyst, Arthur is a Project Leader responsible for the major computer system of the LAPD.
“The LAPD is a very Reserve friendly organisation and has recently received an award in recognition of its support for Defence Reservists,” Arthur said.
As a result of their employers’ support, David and Arthur have both made substantial contributions to US defence programs and operations.
David participated in the original Operation Iraqi Freedom as Officer in Charge of a Reserve Special Boat Squadron while Arthur has been mobilised twice since 9/11. As a training officer in the Navy Cargo Handling Battalion, he has served as the Assistant Deputy for Carrier Support Group during Operation Enduring Freedom and from October 2005 to March 2006, he served as a Port Watch Officer in Kuwait.
The United States, like Australia, has made it an offence to discriminate against employees who undertake Reserve service. David spoke positively about the way in which Intel supports their Reservist employees. The company is very supportive of the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act that protects the employment of Reservists.
In fact Intel goes so far as to make up the difference between the pay that Reservists receive from the government and what they could otherwise expect from their ongoing employment with Intel.
And how did these two experienced USN Reservists rate their experience with the RANR?
“We’ve made some fantastic friends here! The exchange of ideas and the enhanced potential for even greater interoperability makes the whole experience personally and professionally extremely worthwhile!” both men enthused.
To read more about the provisions of the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act for both private and government employers follow the following links:
www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/USERRA_Private.pdf
www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/USERRA_Federal.pdf
LCDR Arthur Fong agrees that his experience with his employer, the Los Angeles Police Department, mirrors that of David. As a Senior System Analyst, Arthur is a Project Leader responsible for the major computer system of the LAPD.
“The LAPD is a very Reserve friendly organisation and has recently received an award in recognition of its support for Defence Reservists,” Arthur said.
As a result of their employers’ support, David and Arthur have both made substantial contributions to US defence programs and operations.
David participated in the original Operation Iraqi Freedom as Officer in Charge of a Reserve Special Boat Squadron while Arthur has been mobilised twice since 9/11. As a training officer in the Navy Cargo Handling Battalion, he has served as the Assistant Deputy for Carrier Support Group during Operation Enduring Freedom and from October 2005 to March 2006, he served as a Port Watch Officer in Kuwait.
The United States, like Australia, has made it an offence to discriminate against employees who undertake Reserve service. David spoke positively about the way in which Intel supports their Reservist employees. The company is very supportive of the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act that protects the employment of Reservists.
In fact Intel goes so far as to make up the difference between the pay that Reservists receive from the government and what they could otherwise expect from their ongoing employment with Intel.
And how did these two experienced USN Reservists rate their experience with the RANR?
“We’ve made some fantastic friends here! The exchange of ideas and the enhanced potential for even greater interoperability makes the whole experience personally and professionally extremely worthwhile!” both men enthused.
To read more about the provisions of the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act for both private and government employers follow the following links:
www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/USERRA_Private.pdf www.dol.gov/vets/programs/userra/USERRA_Federal.pdfOctober 2007
12 October 2007
Flight Lieutenant Heather Dodd: Australian Defence Force Reservist of 2007
A gala event was held recently at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre to recognise South Australia’s future leaders and outstanding nurses and midwives. FLTLT Heather Dodd, a Registered Nurse currently working in the Trauma Theatres at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, was awarded the auspicious Australian Defence Force Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award in recognition of her achievements as a Defence Force Reservist Nurse. Heather works in the Operating Theatre at RAAF Edinburgh as well as being on call for the Fly Away Surgical Team (FAST)
Heather has deployed to Timor Leste where she worked in theatre, in the Regimental Aid Post and on humanitarian aid, which included working with locals in their own communities. In addition, Heather was deployed as a member of Team Echo in Banda Aceh for the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami relief effort and was also on standby for the Nias Tsunami and the Garuda Airline crash in Jog Jakarta.
Highlights in Heather’s career so far include laying a wreath on behalf of the RAAF for the Moliana Base in Timor Leste for the ANZAC Day Dawn Service in 2004 and assisting in 124 operations while on operational duties.
Heather’s goals include surgically assisting injured Australian soldiers and allies on future operational duties; assisting with future civilian and military medical education and to attain the rank of Squadron Leader.
A gala event was held recently at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre to recognise South Australia’s future leaders and outstanding nurses and midwives. FLTLT Heather Dodd, a Registered Nurse currently working in the Trauma Theatres at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, was awarded the auspicious Australian Defence Force Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award in recognition of her achievements as a Defence Force Reservist Nurse. Heather works in the Operating Theatre at RAAF Edinburgh as well as being on call for the Fly Away Surgical Team (FAST)
Heather has deployed to Timor Leste where she worked in theatre, in the Regimental Aid Post and on humanitarian aid, which included working with locals in their own communities. In addition, Heather was deployed as a member of Team Echo in Banda Aceh for the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami relief effort and was also on standby for the Nias Tsunami and the Garuda Airline crash in Jog Jakarta.
Highlights in Heather’s career so far include laying a wreath on behalf of the RAAF for the Moliana Base in Timor Leste for the ANZAC Day Dawn Service in 2004 and assisting in 124 operations while on operational duties.
Heather’s goals include surgically assisting injured Australian soldiers and allies on future operational duties; assisting with future civilian and military medical education and to attain the rank of Squadron Leader.
August 2007
31 August 2007
Reserves and Industry – building partnerships
In conjunction with the annual Defence and Industry Conference, Mr Peter Lindsay, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Lieutenant General David Hurley, Chief of Capability Development Executive and Air Vice-Marshal Norman Grey (Ret'd), Managing Director of Thales Australia each addressed 130 delegates at a special Reserves breakfast function.
The continuing deployment of the Australian Defence Force for various purposes and to diverse locations was cited as a key driver in the growing need for Reservists with specific skills, to supplement permanent forces.
Commander Chris Stephens, Executive Officer of Reserve Policy Division, identified health, engineering and technical trades, law and information technology as specific industries where the ADF and the business community need to share the available pool of expertise and experience.
“Junior lawyers assisting in maritime law or in the development of and implementation of rules of engagement in a conflict zone is just one way Reservists can be meaningfully deployed,” Commander Stephens said.
In calling for an enhanced partnership between industry and the Defence Force Reserves, Commander Stephens drew attention to the range of financial support and incentives available to employers of Reservists.
“The Employer Support Payment Scheme, in particular, has attractive provisions to support employers, employees and self employed Reservists,” he said.
The employment of Reservists in traditional down-times for seasonal industries is also a way the ADF and industry could work together. The ADF obtains the added capability and industry gets its people back when it needs them.
Upcoming months will see similar sessions being held in most capital cities.
In conjunction with the annual Defence and Industry Conference, Mr Peter Lindsay, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Lieutenant General David Hurley, Chief of Capability Development Executive and Air Vice-Marshal Norman Grey (Ret'd), Managing Director of Thales Australia each addressed 130 delegates at a special Reserves breakfast function.
The continuing deployment of the Australian Defence Force for various purposes and to diverse locations was cited as a key driver in the growing need for Reservists with specific skills, to supplement permanent forces.Commander Chris Stephens, Executive Officer of Reserve Policy Division, identified health, engineering and technical trades, law and information technology as specific industries where the ADF and the business community need to share the available pool of expertise and experience.
“Junior lawyers assisting in maritime law or in the development of and implementation of rules of engagement in a conflict zone is just one way Reservists can be meaningfully deployed,” Commander Stephens said.
In calling for an enhanced partnership between industry and the Defence Force Reserves, Commander Stephens drew attention to the range of financial support and incentives available to employers of Reservists.
“The Employer Support Payment Scheme, in particular, has attractive provisions to support employers, employees and self employed Reservists,” he said.
The employment of Reservists in traditional down-times for seasonal industries is also a way the ADF and industry could work together. The ADF obtains the added capability and industry gets its people back when it needs them.
Upcoming months will see similar sessions being held in most capital cities.
17 August 2007
CPA 257/07 - Defence Attitude Survey Findings
The Department of Defence today released a summary of the latest Defence Attitude Survey findings. Publication of the 2006 Summary of Results follows the administration of the survey late last year to a 30 per cent sample of Australian Defence Force members and Defence civilian employees.
Participation in the attitude survey is voluntary. It gives Defence personnel an opportunity to comment candidly on employment-related matters including leadership, conditions of service and remuneration, career intentions, wellbeing and family issues.
The 2006 survey findings highlight Defence personnel perceptions of the positive aspects of working in Defence, as well as areas of concern to personnel that may require more attention.
Data from past survey findings have been used to shape programs such as ADF locality allowances, child care, spouse and partner employment, remuneration arrangements and improvements to career management. Survey data also helped to develop several of the ADF retention initiatives announced by the Government in December 2006 and as part of the 2007 08 Federal Budget.
The 2006 findings show that areas needing greater attention in the view of Defence personnel include ADF pay, work-life balance, workload and working hours.
The survey was undertaken before military and civilian personnel received two installments of a 12.6 per cent pay rise and before a range of ADF financial retention measures was announced. The Government has committed $3.1 billion over the next 10 years to improve ADF recruitment and retention. Some of the significant programs include $226 million for bonuses and allowances for ADF members in critical positions or employment areas with key skill sets and $585 million to reform the ADF other ranks pay structure. Significant pay adjustments are also now flowing from a new ADF pay structure that recognises the work value of different military employment groups and rewarding them accordingly.
Defence has a current project to improve ADF career management. This program recognises that balance between individual needs and Service needs and military capability has a strong influence on whether ADF members decide to stay or go. Defence also is considering the development of a work-life balance benchmark to measure and better manage the impact of ADF service on members and their families.
The 2006 Defence Attitude Survey was the seventh to have been conducted since attitudinal data was first collected in 1999. Defence senior management has access through the survey to the anonymous views and opinions of almost 62,000 personnel, giving a strong baseline of data for workforce planning and policy development.
The 2006 Defence Attitude Survey Summary of Results is available for download at www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpe_site/publications/2006_DAS_Summary_of_Results.pdf
Media contact:
Defence Media Liaison (02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
For a free subscription to Defence Direct, the Minister for Defence's monthly e-newsletter, please follow this link:
www.minister.defence.gov.au/defencedirect/spt/subscribe.html
Issued by Coordination and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6265 3343, Fax: 02 62656946
Media Releases are available via e-mail if you register at www.defence.gov.au/media
The Department of Defence today released a summary of the latest Defence Attitude Survey findings. Publication of the 2006 Summary of Results follows the administration of the survey late last year to a 30 per cent sample of Australian Defence Force members and Defence civilian employees.
Participation in the attitude survey is voluntary. It gives Defence personnel an opportunity to comment candidly on employment-related matters including leadership, conditions of service and remuneration, career intentions, wellbeing and family issues.
The 2006 survey findings highlight Defence personnel perceptions of the positive aspects of working in Defence, as well as areas of concern to personnel that may require more attention.
Data from past survey findings have been used to shape programs such as ADF locality allowances, child care, spouse and partner employment, remuneration arrangements and improvements to career management. Survey data also helped to develop several of the ADF retention initiatives announced by the Government in December 2006 and as part of the 2007 08 Federal Budget.
The 2006 findings show that areas needing greater attention in the view of Defence personnel include ADF pay, work-life balance, workload and working hours.
The survey was undertaken before military and civilian personnel received two installments of a 12.6 per cent pay rise and before a range of ADF financial retention measures was announced. The Government has committed $3.1 billion over the next 10 years to improve ADF recruitment and retention. Some of the significant programs include $226 million for bonuses and allowances for ADF members in critical positions or employment areas with key skill sets and $585 million to reform the ADF other ranks pay structure. Significant pay adjustments are also now flowing from a new ADF pay structure that recognises the work value of different military employment groups and rewarding them accordingly.
Defence has a current project to improve ADF career management. This program recognises that balance between individual needs and Service needs and military capability has a strong influence on whether ADF members decide to stay or go. Defence also is considering the development of a work-life balance benchmark to measure and better manage the impact of ADF service on members and their families.
The 2006 Defence Attitude Survey was the seventh to have been conducted since attitudinal data was first collected in 1999. Defence senior management has access through the survey to the anonymous views and opinions of almost 62,000 personnel, giving a strong baseline of data for workforce planning and policy development.
The 2006 Defence Attitude Survey Summary of Results is available for download at
www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpe_site/publications/2006_DAS_Summary_of_Results.pdfMedia contact:
Defence Media Liaison (02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
For a free subscription to Defence Direct, the Minister for Defence's monthly e-newsletter, please follow this link:
www.minister.defence.gov.au/defencedirect/spt/subscribe.html
Issued by Coordination and Public Affairs, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6265 3343, Fax: 02 62656946
Media Releases are available via e-mail if you register at www.defence.gov.au/media
3 August 2007
Australian Car Manufacturers support Defence Reserves
Australia’s four major car manufacturers have signed Defence Reserves friendly leave policies, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Mr Peter Lindsay announced today.
Full article
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| Army Reservist WO 1 Bryan McLeod who has been a 40-year employee with Ford, stands with Ford Labour Relations Manager David Smith and The Hon Peter Lindsay MP. In front of a Ford Territory and AP-3C Orion. | Paul Stevenson Director of Corporate Affairs and Human Resources, The Hon Peter Lindsay MP, Corporate Employer Relations Manager for Mitsubishi Motors Richard Collett and Chairman of Defence Reserves Support Council Peter Somers OAM,FAICD,FCDA. Here in front of an AP-3C Orion and Mitsubishi 380. |
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| Captain Michael Tamassy and Andrea Matthews Corporate Affairs Manager Holden, with Mr. David Fawcett MP (Federal Member for Wakefield), Chairman of Defence Reserves Support Council Peter Somers OAM,FAICD,FCDA, and The Hon Peter Lindsay MP. Here in front of an AP-3C Orion and a Holden Commodore. | The Hon Peter Lindsay MP with Joanne Romano, Toyota Manager Employee Relations/ Health and Safety Manufactory and Chairman of Defence Reserves Support Council Peter Somers OAM,FAICD, FCDA. Here in front of an AP-3C Orion and a Toyota Camery. |
Australia’s four major car manufacturers have signed Defence Reserves friendly leave policies, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Mr Peter Lindsay announced today.
Full article3 August 2007
Australian Car Manufacturers support Defence Reserves
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Mr Peter Lindsay MP, will officially launch Defence Reserves friendly leave policies developed by Toyota, Mitsubishi Motors, Holden, and Ford on 2 August 2007 in Adelaide.
Full article
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence, Mr Peter Lindsay MP, will officially launch Defence Reserves friendly leave policies developed by Toyota, Mitsubishi Motors, Holden, and Ford on 2 August 2007 in Adelaide.
Full articleJuly 2007
27 July 2007
In our May E-News, you may recall a short story about the Office of Reserve Service Protection visit to the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. This month, there is more detail about this important visit.
First port of call was the United States, where the National Guard combined with Reservists make up an amazing 46% of the total available military manpower. Office of Reserve Service Protection Director Phil Johnston and his deputy Lieutenant Colonel Chris Grigsby met with their counterparts from the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the equivalent of Australia’s Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC). It was here that they discovered that the current National Defence Strategy proposes that the National Guard and Reserve will be full partners in the fully integrated Total Force.
In this environment, civilian employers play a critical role in the defence of the nation through the administration of the existing employment laws protecting the rights of workers who serve in the Reserve Forces.
However, when Mr Johnston and LTCOL Grigsby continued to Ottawa in Canada, they learnt of some provisions in the relationship between Federal and Provincial levels of government that complicated the protection of Reservists. Brigadier-General Colwell, Director General Personnel Generation Policy and her staff from the Department of National Defence, explained that blanket legislation protecting Reservists and their employment could not be applied unless bipartisan support could be obtained. In fact, a view exists to some degree that as Reserve service is voluntary, then protection through legislation is not necessary.
The 25000 Reservists in Canada enjoy a high profile within their Provinces, and their country’s equivalent of our DRSC, the Canadian Forces Liaison Council (CFLC) is comprised of business people who volunteer their time and effort to promote the Reserve Force. They believe in the “Profitable Partnership” and the advantages employers can gain by recognising the valuable training that Reservists undertake.
Moves are afoot to afford job protection to Canadian Reservists through the development of legislation at a Federal level in conjunction with some Provincial Governments.
Continuing to London, the Australian team joined other members of Australia’s Reserve Policy Division and the DRSC to attend the International Conference on Employer Support for Reservists. The British attitude to protection is somewhat aligned to the Canadian model in that they do not see a need for additional legislation to protect normal Reserve training.
Legislation exists to support Reservists upon call-out and in the interim a strong campaign called SaBRE (Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers) is dedicated to gaining and maintaining the support of employers for the Volunteer Reserve Forces (VRF) through a combination of nationwide marketing communications and regional relationship building.
It became clear to the ORSP staff that Australia has, by comparison with other nations, a very strong legislative base to support employers and protect Reservists. Nevertheless, in the six years that the legislation has been in existence, there has not been a need to apply its provisions to any employer. Building productive partnerships between employers, Reservists, the three services and the government has proved to be the right course of action!
First port of call was the United States, where the National Guard combined with Reservists make up an amazing 46% of the total available military manpower. Office of Reserve Service Protection Director Phil Johnston and his deputy Lieutenant Colonel Chris Grigsby met with their counterparts from the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the equivalent of Australia’s Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC). It was here that they discovered that the current National Defence Strategy proposes that the National Guard and Reserve will be full partners in the fully integrated Total Force.
In this environment, civilian employers play a critical role in the defence of the nation through the administration of the existing employment laws protecting the rights of workers who serve in the Reserve Forces.
However, when Mr Johnston and LTCOL Grigsby continued to Ottawa in Canada, they learnt of some provisions in the relationship between Federal and Provincial levels of government that complicated the protection of Reservists. Brigadier-General Colwell, Director General Personnel Generation Policy and her staff from the Department of National Defence, explained that blanket legislation protecting Reservists and their employment could not be applied unless bipartisan support could be obtained. In fact, a view exists to some degree that as Reserve service is voluntary, then protection through legislation is not necessary.
The 25000 Reservists in Canada enjoy a high profile within their Provinces, and their country’s equivalent of our DRSC, the Canadian Forces Liaison Council (CFLC) is comprised of business people who volunteer their time and effort to promote the Reserve Force. They believe in the “Profitable Partnership” and the advantages employers can gain by recognising the valuable training that Reservists undertake.
Moves are afoot to afford job protection to Canadian Reservists through the development of legislation at a Federal level in conjunction with some Provincial Governments.
Continuing to London, the Australian team joined other members of Australia’s Reserve Policy Division and the DRSC to attend the International Conference on Employer Support for Reservists. The British attitude to protection is somewhat aligned to the Canadian model in that they do not see a need for additional legislation to protect normal Reserve training.
Legislation exists to support Reservists upon call-out and in the interim a strong campaign called SaBRE (Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers) is dedicated to gaining and maintaining the support of employers for the Volunteer Reserve Forces (VRF) through a combination of nationwide marketing communications and regional relationship building.
It became clear to the ORSP staff that Australia has, by comparison with other nations, a very strong legislative base to support employers and protect Reservists. Nevertheless, in the six years that the legislation has been in existence, there has not been a need to apply its provisions to any employer. Building productive partnerships between employers, Reservists, the three services and the government has proved to be the right course of action!
27 July 2007
Defence Reserves to support Australian Defence Force Charity Ball
Defence Reserves Support has been named a significant sponsor of the upcoming 2007 Australian Defence Force Charity Ball.
The event will be held on Saturday, 29 September at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
After raising $77,000 for worthy beneficiaries Starlight Children’s Foundation and Legacy in 2006, this year’s event aims to raise more than $100,000.
It will be a prestigious evening filled with regional cuisine, fine wines, and outstanding entertainment. Most importantly the night will raise much needed funds and also draw South East Queensland's Defence and corporate worlds together in a social environment.
In order for the 2007 ADF Charity Ball to be a successful evening, the ball’s organising committee is seeking support of Queensland residents and the business community. This support can be generated through sponsoring the event or hosting a table of 10. Sponsoring the event provides businesses with the opportunity to build goodwill within the community, in addition to increasing your business’ profile through the extensive marketing plan attached to promotion of the ADF Charity Ball.
For further information about the ball please visit www.adfball.com.au
For more information on sponsorship or hosting a table, please contact Jayne Kidd at e-Kiddna Event Management on 07 5548 6199 or Email: info@e-Kiddna.com.au
24 July 2007
The Canberra Hospital reaps rewards with Naval Reserve Doctor.
The Canberra Hospital believes it has a very good arrangement with the Defence Force. Chris Cole, a 32-year-old Naval Reserve doctor is bringing an extensive range of new skills, knowledge and experience to the hospital and to his own work as an emergency medicine registrar through his involvement in the Defence Force Reserves.
Lieutenant Cole joined the Naval Reserve in 2006 – and there were several reasons behind his decision.
“I was interested in applying my skills as a critical care doctor in different contexts, especially disaster relief,” said LEUT Cole.
“Being in the Naval Reserve provides me with unique opportunities to serve in ADF humanitarian programs, peace keeping operations, and to work as part of a very diverse and dedicated team doing something 'a little different' to my usual job.”
LEUT Cole was also very keen to take advantage of the quality training and experience the Navy offers in underwater medicine and aeromedical evacuation and retrieval. In July, he commenced his Underwater Medicine course at Sydney’s HMAS PENGUIN, a course not readily available anywhere else in Australia.
Dr Andrew Singer, LEUT Cole’s supervisor and Director of Emergency Medicine at The Canberra Hospital is enthusiastic about his employees work in the Reserves.
“We are delighted that Chris has joined the Naval Reserve. He is an excellent doctor and we are very happy to share his expertise with others and to benefit from the training he is receiving. And the fact that we receive $4500 a week through the Employer Support Payment Scheme to cover Chris’s time away really helps us.”
Not only is LEUT Cole a talented doctor, he is an accomplished pianist and cross-country skier. This year, he is representing the Navy in Exercise Coolshot, an annual competition between the Navy, Army and the Air Force where teams try to outdo each other in a biathlon (Nordic skiing and shooting) and cross-country ski racing.
And what does Dr Singer think?
“Chris is not just learning new skills and knowledge in the Navy Reserve; he is growing as a leader and manager. In the hectic world of Emergency Medicine, we think that is a very special combination. We are pretty fortunate to have Chris on board – so to speak!”
The Canberra Hospital believes it has a very good arrangement with the Defence Force. Chris Cole, a 32-year-old Naval Reserve doctor is bringing an extensive range of new skills, knowledge and experience to the hospital and to his own work as an emergency medicine registrar through his involvement in the Defence Force Reserves.Lieutenant Cole joined the Naval Reserve in 2006 – and there were several reasons behind his decision.
“I was interested in applying my skills as a critical care doctor in different contexts, especially disaster relief,” said LEUT Cole.
“Being in the Naval Reserve provides me with unique opportunities to serve in ADF humanitarian programs, peace keeping operations, and to work as part of a very diverse and dedicated team doing something 'a little different' to my usual job.”
LEUT Cole was also very keen to take advantage of the quality training and experience the Navy offers in underwater medicine and aeromedical evacuation and retrieval. In July, he commenced his Underwater Medicine course at Sydney’s HMAS PENGUIN, a course not readily available anywhere else in Australia.
Dr Andrew Singer, LEUT Cole’s supervisor and Director of Emergency Medicine at The Canberra Hospital is enthusiastic about his employees work in the Reserves.
“We are delighted that Chris has joined the Naval Reserve. He is an excellent doctor and we are very happy to share his expertise with others and to benefit from the training he is receiving. And the fact that we receive $4500 a week through the Employer Support Payment Scheme to cover Chris’s time away really helps us.”
Not only is LEUT Cole a talented doctor, he is an accomplished pianist and cross-country skier. This year, he is representing the Navy in Exercise Coolshot, an annual competition between the Navy, Army and the Air Force where teams try to outdo each other in a biathlon (Nordic skiing and shooting) and cross-country ski racing.
And what does Dr Singer think?
“Chris is not just learning new skills and knowledge in the Navy Reserve; he is growing as a leader and manager. In the hectic world of Emergency Medicine, we think that is a very special combination. We are pretty fortunate to have Chris on board – so to speak!”
June 2007
28 June 2007
Sub Lieutenant Mark Shannon shows just what is possible when employers and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) work together. Mark is a Tug Master with Svitzer Australia, one of the largest providers of services to major local and international ship owners, operators and cargo interests in Australia and since April this year he has been serving full time with the RAN.
After joining the Naval Reserve in 2006, Mark completed his Reserve Entry Officers Course and in April this year, he commenced training on HMAS SYDNEY to obtain his Bridge Watch-keeping Certificate, a qualification that will enable him to keep watch on the bridges of Australia’s warships.
Mark is quite a special recruit to the Royal Australian Navy Reserve. He is the first Reserve Seaman Officer to ever come from outside the ranks of the permanent Navy itself and undergo extended and intensive Seaman Officer training. In many respects, Mark is blazing the trail for other Reserve Seaman Officers and their employers in the future.
When Mark completes what will ultimately be nearly 18 months of specialised training, he will emerge with a Masters 3 ticket – a Maritime qualification that simply would not have been possible in his civilian job.
It was this, and the Employer Support Program, that convinced Mark’s boss, Jeff McClenaughan, that Svitzer, the Royal Australian Navy and Mark himself would all be winners when he released Mark for 18 months of the world’s best training for Seaman Officers.
Jeff said that the funding provided by the Employer Support Payment Scheme that allows him to temporarily replace Mark and the qualifications and training that he would return to Svitzer with, both made it very easy for him to proceed with the proposal to enable Mark to achieve his dream. As an ex-National serviceman himself, Jeff appreciates why serving your country is a special calling!
It seems Jeff and the Navy are on a good thing! SBLT Shannon was presented with the inaugural Naval Officers Club award for Reserve Naval Officers, Dux of the Class for REOC 01/06, at the passing out parade held at HMAS CRESWELL on 28 June by Rear Admiral David Holthouse AO RAN (Re’td).
The faith placed in Mark by Svitzer and the Royal Australian Navy is well placed indeed!
Yes, everyone can be winners when employers, the Defence Force and Reservists work together!
After joining the Naval Reserve in 2006, Mark completed his Reserve Entry Officers Course and in April this year, he commenced training on HMAS SYDNEY to obtain his Bridge Watch-keeping Certificate, a qualification that will enable him to keep watch on the bridges of Australia’s warships.
Mark is quite a special recruit to the Royal Australian Navy Reserve. He is the first Reserve Seaman Officer to ever come from outside the ranks of the permanent Navy itself and undergo extended and intensive Seaman Officer training. In many respects, Mark is blazing the trail for other Reserve Seaman Officers and their employers in the future.
When Mark completes what will ultimately be nearly 18 months of specialised training, he will emerge with a Masters 3 ticket – a Maritime qualification that simply would not have been possible in his civilian job.
It was this, and the Employer Support Program, that convinced Mark’s boss, Jeff McClenaughan, that Svitzer, the Royal Australian Navy and Mark himself would all be winners when he released Mark for 18 months of the world’s best training for Seaman Officers.
Jeff said that the funding provided by the Employer Support Payment Scheme that allows him to temporarily replace Mark and the qualifications and training that he would return to Svitzer with, both made it very easy for him to proceed with the proposal to enable Mark to achieve his dream. As an ex-National serviceman himself, Jeff appreciates why serving your country is a special calling!
It seems Jeff and the Navy are on a good thing! SBLT Shannon was presented with the inaugural Naval Officers Club award for Reserve Naval Officers, Dux of the Class for REOC 01/06, at the passing out parade held at HMAS CRESWELL on 28 June by Rear Admiral David Holthouse AO RAN (Re’td).
The faith placed in Mark by Svitzer and the Royal Australian Navy is well placed indeed!
Yes, everyone can be winners when employers, the Defence Force and Reservists work together!
6 June 2007
Award win benefits Reservist and Employer
BY FLGOFF Stephen McClelland
John Willy is proof of how the Prince of Wales Award (POWA) scheme is benefiting Defence Reservists and their civilian employers.
Full article
Full articleMay 2007
31 May 2007
Southern Cross University Policy to support Student Reservists
The announcement of the Defence Reserve Service (Protection) Act 2001 Review was made at Southern Cross University in Coffs Harbour, NSW, during a function to launch a new initiative aimed at supporting student Reservists both financially and academically. Southern Cross University has developed a policy that provides assistance to student Reservists in terms of special consideration in exams, deferral of assessment, rescheduling of assessments, remittance of HECS and/or fees and other support when students are absent due to Reserve commitments. With the support of the DRSC and the endorsement of the Australian Vice Chancellors Committee, this policy is to be restyled as a set of guidelines for adoption by universities and other academic institutions across Australia. The details of the new guidelines will be promoted to Universities, TAFEs, Institutes of Technology and private training providers over the next four months. It is reasonably expected that the majority of Universities and many of the other institutions will have adopted the guidelines in some form before the end of this academic year. More information is available here.
The announcement of the Defence Reserve Service (Protection) Act 2001 Review was made at Southern Cross University in Coffs Harbour, NSW, during a function to launch a new initiative aimed at supporting student Reservists both financially and academically. Southern Cross University has developed a policy that provides assistance to student Reservists in terms of special consideration in exams, deferral of assessment, rescheduling of assessments, remittance of HECS and/or fees and other support when students are absent due to Reserve commitments. With the support of the DRSC and the endorsement of the Australian Vice Chancellors Committee, this policy is to be restyled as a set of guidelines for adoption by universities and other academic institutions across Australia. The details of the new guidelines will be promoted to Universities, TAFEs, Institutes of Technology and private training providers over the next four months. It is reasonably expected that the majority of Universities and many of the other institutions will have adopted the guidelines in some form before the end of this academic year. More information is available here.
 | (l-r) Southern Cross University Students/Reservists Privates Bruce Dingle, Caitlin Proctor, Adam Atkins and Teena Ellis all from 41 Royal NSW Regiment. |
April 2007
26 April 2007
Employer Support Focus for International Defence Experts
Leading military and civilian experts from around the globe travelled to the United Kingdom this month to discuss the challenges of making reservists readily available to respond to world-security, overseas operations and disaster assistance missions. The experts were delegates at the fifth International Conference on Employer Support for Reservists (ICESR) at the RAF Club in London. The conference program examined how different militaries throughout the world manage the situation when reservists experience difficulties obtaining time off from their civilian employment and educational institutions to train and serve.
Analysis and collaboration on the best practices of Reserve Force Employer Support Programs featured prominently in these discussions. These programs are intended to encourage employer support for reservists and thereby facilitate reservists being granted leaves of absence for training and overseas operational deployments. Other conference topics included: selling the benefits of Reserve service, incentives for employers today and tomorrow, challenges caused by reservists being called up with increasing frequency, challenges in successfully addressing conflict between employers and their reservist employees, challenges convincing key decision makers (political, military, members of the civilian population) of the importance and relevance of the Employer Support Programs, and challenges recruiting and retaining Reserve Force members.
Leading military and civilian experts from around the globe travelled to the United Kingdom this month to discuss the challenges of making reservists readily available to respond to world-security, overseas operations and disaster assistance missions. The experts were delegates at the fifth International Conference on Employer Support for Reservists (ICESR) at the RAF Club in London. The conference program examined how different militaries throughout the world manage the situation when reservists experience difficulties obtaining time off from their civilian employment and educational institutions to train and serve.
Analysis and collaboration on the best practices of Reserve Force Employer Support Programs featured prominently in these discussions. These programs are intended to encourage employer support for reservists and thereby facilitate reservists being granted leaves of absence for training and overseas operational deployments. Other conference topics included: selling the benefits of Reserve service, incentives for employers today and tomorrow, challenges caused by reservists being called up with increasing frequency, challenges in successfully addressing conflict between employers and their reservist employees, challenges convincing key decision makers (political, military, members of the civilian population) of the importance and relevance of the Employer Support Programs, and challenges recruiting and retaining Reserve Force members.
The next ICESR conference will be held in Australia in 2009. Australia was selected as the venue in recognition of its 'best practice' Reserve and employer support systems supporting the Australian Defence Force.
2 April 2007
Handbook to help employers of Reservists
Employers who have staff in the Defence Reserve can have all their questions answered thanks to a new handbook.
The "Employer Handbook – Everything you need to know about employing Reservists" is designed to help employers understand their rights and responsibilities as an employer of Defence Force Reservists. It aims to provide information about the key support initiatives and relevant contact details.
The Employer Support Payment Scheme is one of the programs detailed in the handbook. Many employers are unaware of the scheme, which is designed to help offset the costs of releasing employees for Defence service.
Employer Support Payments, otherwise known as ESP, are currently set at $1035.90 per week, after completing the annual two-week qualifying period. This payment rate will increase on 1 July. Higher-level payments may be made if a claimant can show substantial financial hardship or loss.
Employer Engagement Activities are also highlighted in the handbook, in particularly Exercise Executive Stretch and Bosslift.
Reserve Policy Communications Director Deanna Nott said the handbook contained most things employers and Reservists needed to know.
"From rights and obligations, to applying for leave and the protection offered to Reservists, this handbook is a valuable resource," said Mrs Nott. "
It's about showing employers and Reservists that Defence Service is a ‘win-win’ situation.
For example, the handbook highlights many of the benefits of Reserve service. Not only does it detail the financial benefits for employers, but also the skills which are the hardest for a business or organisation to provide training for – in the areas such as leadership, self-confidence and initiative – exactly the skills which service in the Reserves develops most."
The handbook is available in hard copy form by calling the Defence Reserves hotline on 1800 803 485 or filling out the on-line request form. Alternatively you can download the handbook from the Defence Reserves website.
Mrs Nott said the website also contained downloadable brochures and many case studies showing the mutual benefits for employers and Reservists.
Another initiative recently rolled out with the Reserves website is an e-newsletter. Mrs Nott said it was possible for employers and Reservists to sign up for the free resource via a form on the site.
"Employers and Reservists alike will find the e-newsletter both informative and entertaining," she said.
March 2007
1 March 2007
Army Reserve trucking ahead with Mack
Mack Trucks Australia has joined forces with the Army Reserve in an innovative training program for apprentice mechanics.
January 2007
9 January 2007
Reserves at the Ready
Article that appeared in the Herald Sun, January 6, 2007
Article that appeared in the Herald Sun, January 6, 2007
