There can be cultural and structural differences between Australian Defence Force (ADF) and civilian work environments. Many non-veteran staff may not be aware of these differences.
Providing training to non-veteran staff can build their knowledge of life in the ADF and improve understanding of the experiences of veterans. This can, in turn, assist veterans to move into the civilian workplace.
This webpage provides an example training package and guidance on how to deliver the training. It also provides some tips for employers on how to develop their own training package.
Delivering a staff training package
An example training package is provided below to help educate non-veteran employees about working with veterans.
Working With Veterans Staff Training Package (PDF 482.17 KB)
Consider the following points when planning to deliver a training package.
Target audience
It’s helpful to start by thinking about which of your employees will benefit most from completing the training. While all employees can benefit from understanding more about veterans and the ADF, it is particularly important for staff working with veterans to feel confident in their knowledge. These staff may include:
- hiring managers and HR staff involved in veteran recruitment and on-boarding
- supervisors and managers of veteran employees
- staff working in a team with veteran employees.
Training purpose
This training is designed to target any gaps in knowledge that non-veteran employees have about the ADF. This will increase employees’ awareness of the veteran experience.
While training can improve your employees’ knowledge, be mindful that the veteran experience is diverse. It cannot be distilled into a single learning experience. It is therefore important to foster an ongoing commitment to learning about the experiences of veterans. This may involve regular opportunities to hear from other veteran employees and guest speakers, as well as to undertake additional training.
You may choose to use the example package as it is, or adapt it based on the training needs you have identified in your staff.
Developing a staff training package
Some organisations may choose to develop their own training package. To create an effective training package on working with veterans, see the resource below.
How to develop a staff training package on working with veterans (PDF 172.91 KB)
Below are some additional training materials or courses for health professionals:
Related Veteran Employment Commitment activity:
- Educate non-veteran staff on military cultural competence.