Free laptops give veterans access to employment and education opportunities

RSL LifeCare Veteran Services, in collaboration with Optus and ASI Solutions, are providing laptops to veterans and their families to access education courses and employment opportunities. The pilot program has gifted 50 laptops to veteran families, RSL NSW sub-Branches and Veteran Wellbeing Centres.

“Education and employment are so important for supporting your mental wellbeing and providing for your family,” said RSL LifeCare Executive General Manager Veteran Services, David Anderson. “We know the value that veterans’ experience brings to the workforce. This program is about enabling access to the courses and opportunities that help them showcase their skills.”

“We are thrilled to be working with Optus to improve access to these opportunities for veterans and their families.”

The program provides a laptop and the Microsoft Office suite, basic tools needed to navigate job applications and access online education to upskill and prepare to re-enter the workforce.

The program has also provided laptops and data to RSL LifeCare’s Veteran Wellbeing Centres and RSL NSW sub-Branches so that they can help local veterans access virtual appointments, process Department of Veterans’ Affairs claims or access MyGov services.

Aaron Clarke, Vice President of Dapto-Port Kembla RSL sub-Branch said, “this program has enabled us to provide ‘mobile veteran support’ in our community. Local veterans can come to our sub-Branch or we can go to them and provide access to telehealth services, DVA appointments and connection to community services. We are using the laptop to support clients across the Illawarra region and in the Southern Highlands.”

Helen Maisano, Optus Senior Director of Group Sustainability said, “part of delivering Optus’ vision of being Australia’s most loved everyday brand with lasting customer relationships is ensuring that Australians who have served in the armed forces are able to return home, stay connected and leverage tools that support a positive transition into civilian life.

“Optus is honoured to work with RSL LifeCare Veteran Services and ASI Solutions to add our veterans to our Donate Your Data program. We know connectivity is critical to order to communicate with friends and families, studying and upskilling or looking for a new career opportunity. Optus is proud to play a part in helping veterans taking their next step.”

Following the success of the pilot program, RSL LifeCare has expanded the provision of these laptops to more clients in need and in partnership with Optus also providing digital literacy training for veterans through Optus’ Digital Thumbprint program.

“We have clients in difficult financial circumstances, some who have left domestic violence situations and others who are experiencing homelessness”, said David Anderson. “This program can give them access to resources to help re-establish themselves and improve their overall wellbeing.”

In recognition of the success of the pilot, a thank you event will be held at the Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park to provide an overview of the program and future plans to better support veterans and their families.

We would like to thank Optus and ASI Solutions for their generous contribution. Their support in providing access to education courses and employment opportunities is truly appreciated.