SA's veteran network welcoming more public sector employers

More veterans transitioning to other frontline roles

SA's veteran network welcoming more public sector employers

South Australia's recently launched veteran employer network is welcoming more public sector employers as more veterans transition to frontline positions in emergency services and government agencies.

The South Australia Police (SAPOL) just joined the South Australian Veteran Employer Network, which brings together various organisations across various sectors to boost employment outcomes for veterans.

Veterans SA said it is also engaging with the Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) and SA Ambulance Service as it looks to expand the network across the public and private sector organisations.

The South Australian Veteran Employer Network started out with 15 organisations when it was launched late last month.

More veterans transitioning

The inclusion of SAPOL in the network comes as more veterans transition to other forms of public service across the state.

In fact, the government said over a thousand veterans are currently employed in the state's public sector, including 120 staff currently serving as part-time Australian Defence Force (ADF) reservists.

SAPOL, MFS, and the SA Ambulance Service are among the growing number of employers welcoming veterans to their ranks, according to the state government.

"There are many opportunities for veterans to apply their skills in problem solving, teamwork, leadership, planning and communications as a police officer," said Stuart McLean, SAPOL Assistant Commissioner and former Operations Officer in the Royal Australian Air Force, in a statement.

"Veterans can also continue their military career whilst serving as a police officer. There are many police officers in SAPOL with successful Reserve careers."

The growing number of veterans transitioning comes as the government rolls out various measures to help them connect with other SA professionals.

"We are delivering more support for veterans to transition into the workforce and secure meaningful employment," said Veterans Affair Minister Geoff Brock in a statement.

"The programs and resources we have available help the public sector recognise the unique skills, discipline and dedication that veterans bring and demonstrate how these values are an ideal match to their agencies."