Who is eligible

Ex-serving ADF

To be eligible, you must:

• be a resident of a participating state
• be an ex-ADF member not in regular employment OR a current ADF member with a confirmed discharge date
• have already exhausted Defence Force Transition Program (DFTP) entitlements
• not be currently in the DVA Work Rehab Program

If you have not already exhausted DFTP entitlements please click here for more information on how to exhaust the entitlements.

Spouse/partner of an ADF member

To be eligible for the Employment Program for partners, you must:

• be married or the de facto partner of a current or ex-serving ADF member
• not be in regular employment
• be a resident of a participating state and have an Australian Residence status

DVA entitlements

If you have any concerns about how employment might impact any DVA entitlements received by you or your partner, we recommend you contact DVA directly.

Information for employers

Why hire a veteran?

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) invests heavily in its people. When you hire a veteran of the ADF, you are hiring someone who:

• has transferrable skills, values and attributes
• is a committed employee
• is seeking meaningful, long-term employment
• has accredited training with nationally-recognised qualifications
• is an effective leader and team member who embodies team spirit.
• Employing men and women who have proudly served our country also promotes your organisation among the community as an employer of choice

Frequently asked questions

How much will the program cost me?

All of the services and activities undertaken with our contracted employment consultants are free of charge. However, if there is a cost involved in upskilling or gaining qualifications, an additional assessment would need to be undertaken to determine whether a cost would be covered by the RSL Veteran Employment Program.

What if I can’t complete the program?

If you start the program but find you cannot complete it, you are free to either postpone further services or withdraw from the program completely.

I don’t have the qualification for the role I want. Can you help?

We can assist you to understand what training or qualifications are necessary for the role you want. Our level of assistance is subject to further assessment within the employment map stage.

What is an ‘employment map’?

An employment map is a picture of your future employment opportunities, formed by determining the short and long term goals that will guide your career journey. We develop your employment map with you and a third party consultant, by determining which skills, qualifications and attributes you need. We may also link you with an appropriate training provider to discuss study options, course costs and available funding.

What is a Job Search Plan?

During our eligibility assessment we will check your employment vitals, which includes developing job search goals by discussing your job interests, previous employer feedback, skills, experience, qualifications/training and job seeking documents. We will also connect you with a Vocational Consultant who can help refine your job seeking tools and methods, giving you the best possible chance to secure your next role.

I need help with DVA claims. Can you help me?

The Employment Team can link you up with one of our experienced advocates who can help you with any DVA claims.

Why does the program refer me to a third-party employment consultant?

We have partnered with specialist employment consultants to make sure you get the best possible help and attention while you are actively looking for work. Their consultants will work one-on-one with you via phone call, Skype, email or face-to-face.

Do you have jobs available?

Yes. The Employment Team has been working hard to create connections with employers across Australia who have jobs that align to the skill set of ex-ADF personnel and their spouses.

I’m not discharging from Defence until next year. Can you still help me?

If you are undertaking DVA’s Work Rehabilitation Program or are yet to use Defence Force Transition Program (DFTP), you are not eligible for the RSL Veterans’ Employment Program. This is to ensure we are not duplicating services that already exist.

I have a job, but I’m not happy and I’m not earning enough money or receiving enough shifts to support myself and my family. Am I eligible for the Veteran Employment Program?

Assessments are made on a case-by-case basis, so you may need to submit additional personal and/or financial documentation to validate your circumstances.