The Returned Services League (RSL) National has secured a $15 million investment in its efforts to help veterans find work on civvy street from the Federal Government, through the Department of Veterans Affairs’ new Enhanced Employment Support for Veterans (EESV) grant program.
Previously, the RSL Employment Program has been granted $6 million in a one-off EESV funding to extend its services nationally. The program was originally developed and trialled by RSL Queensland in Townsville in 2017 and rolled out in the rest of Queensland in 2018.
Currently, RSL National has been working collaboratively with RSL Queensland and is well advanced in planning the national rollout of the veterans program, starting in South Australia.
RSL National President Greg Melick AO RFD FANZCN SC said the organisations were on track to quickly and effectively implement the program Australia-wide.
“I welcome Minister Chester and Prime Minister Morrison’s announcement today as recognition of the efficacy of RSL’s approach to veteran wellbeing and support,” Melick said. “RSL Queensland’s Employment Program was developed in response to the initial findings of the Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation’s Military Reintegration Initiative, which aims to identify the factors influencing successful transition.”
RSL Queensland General Manager Veteran Services Rob Skoda said the organisation was proud of the results its employment program had achieved in Queensland and was confident the model would enjoy continued success on a national scale.
“RSL Queensland exists to provide wellbeing and welfare support to ensure a bright future and enduring legacy for all veterans and their families,” Skoda said. “Part of this involves helping veterans find employment that gives them purpose, direction and a fulfilling post-service career. We’re very excited to be supporting the national rollout of the program.”
