Assistant Minister for Defence - Leading employers recognised at national awards

Five outstanding employers have been recognised for their support of Australian Defence Force Reservists at the National Employer Support Awards in Canberra overnight.

The event was held at the Australian War Memorial and hosted by the Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC). Assistant Minister for Defence, Stuart Robert, presented the awards to the winning employers.

“On behalf of the Government and Reservists right around Australia I would like to say thank you to all of the winners for the truly exceptional support you have provided to employees who choose to serve in the Reserves,” Mr Robert said.

“Reservists will play an increasingly important role as the Australian Defence Force moves towards an integrated workforce model, and your contribution as employers of Reservists to national security and the national interest cannot be underestimated.”

The 2015 National Employer Support Award winners are:

Small Business – Commercial Racking and Shelving Company (VIC)

Medium Business – CAE Australia (NSW)

Large Business – BAE Systems (SA)

Public Sector – ACT Health – Canberra Hospital (ACT & South East NSW)

Not for Profit – Communities @ Work (ACT & South East NSW)

Mr Robert also presented State Employer Support Awards to several Australian Capital Territory and South Eastern New South Wales businesses. This year 29 ACT businesses were nominated for recognition as supportive employers.

As part of the awards night, the Hon Dr Brendan Nelson was also appointed as the inaugural DRSC National Ambassador. Dr Nelson will advocate on behalf of the DRSC by encouraging Australians and particularly employers to consider what more they can do to support ADF Reservists.

For more information about the National Employer Support Awards and the support provided to Reserves and their employers visit: www.defencereservessupport.gov.au

Media contacts:

Richard Briedis (Minister Robert) 0477 391 174

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999