Veterans program
At Rheinmetall Defence Australia (RDA), we are committed to becoming an industry leader in Veteran Employment and Engagement, ensuring a smooth transition for those leaving Defence into the civilian workforce. Our mission is to support veterans through our comprehensive Veteran Engagement Program (VEP), which focuses on employment readiness and active engagement with our veteran workforce.
“Veterans bring exceptional leadership, resilience and a mission-driven work ethic that significantly enhances our company’s capabilities.
Their unique experiences and dedication are invaluable assets, driving innovation and excellence within our workforce.”
Managing Director Rheinmetall Defence Australia
RDA acknowledges the service, sacrifice, and unique skills of the men and women of the Australian Defence Force. We recognize the critical importance of assisting veterans in finding new purpose and career opportunities in civilian life. Our VEP offers three tailored employment pathways designed to support veterans at different stages of their transition:
- Medically Discharged: A 12-week work trial program supported by rehabilitation coordinators.
- Industry Integration: 2–3-week placements for those seeking experience in the Defence industry.
- Targeted Recruitment: Actively recruiting veterans and Defence Force spouses for suitable roles across Army, Navy, and Air Force sectors.
Veteran Engagement Program
Veteran Employment
- DVA 12-week Placement
- Industry Integration Placement *NEW*
- Targeted Recruitment
Veteran Engagement
- Veteran Committee
- Social Connection Events
- Advocacy Entitlements & Peer Support
“Recently the turret assembly team bought in an experienced Veteran on a work placement, having the skill set, appropriate experience and security clearance to be able to come in and hit the ground running is a great advantage.
This merit based work trial approach works and we have offered a contract for permanent employment.”
Production Manager – Vehicle Assembly & Weapons Rheinmetall Defence Australia
Joining RDA means becoming part of a supportive veteran community where your military experience is respected and valued. Here are some benefits you can expect:
- Utilisation of Defence Experience: Apply your skills and knowledge in a civilian workforce.
- Confidence Building: Strengthen your ability to translate military skills to a Defence Prime.
- Supportive Team Environment: Grow in a team that enhances Defence capability.
- Skill Development: Learn new skills and have your military service recognised.
- Career Pathways: Discover sustainable career opportunities.
- Continued Education: Motivation for further study and training.
- Passion Application: Use your Defence experience in a dynamic commercial setting supported by the RDA Veteran community.
“The Veteran Employment Program has allowed me the opportunity to showcase my work ethic, skills and teamwork that I gained from my time within the defence force to a world class company.
I strongly encourage ex-service defence members and businesses to try the VEP.”
Facilities Permit Control Officer Rheinmetall Defence Australia
Our Veteran Engagement Committee, consisting of 6-8 prominent veterans from all three services, ensures governance and support for our VEP. The committee provides:
- Social Connection: Build relationships within the veteran community.
- Issue Discussion Platform: Address and resolve concerns.
- Legacy and ESO Events: Participate in meaningful events.
- Peer Support: Offer support within the group.
- DVA Advocacy: Access entitlements through advocacy.
- Additional Support: Connect with resources like Open Arms and Mates4Mates.
Our strategy includes engaging with current veterans across RDA’s locations in Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra, and Adelaide. We have established a program brand and logo under the Rheinmetall banner to ensure our veterans feel respected and valued, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
At Rheinmetall Defence Australia, we understand the unique challenges our veteran employees may face as they transition from military to civilian life. We believe that their wellbeing is crucial to their success and satisfaction in the workplace.
To support this, we actively participate in initiatives like Veterans Health Week, which highlights the importance of mental and physical health. Through these programs, we aim to foster a supportive environment where veterans can thrive, ensuring they feel valued and empowered as part of our team.
RDA collaborates with various ex-service organisations (ESOs) and contributes to the veteran community through several initiatives:
- Legacy: Charitable partner supporting events and fundraising initiatives like Run Army, C3 Challenge, Backyard Assist, Golf Day and the Gala Ball.
- Mates4Mates: Partnership to support veterans and their families holistically (health, wellbeing, jobs, volunteering, support services, relationships, activities, educational seminars).
- QLD RSL: Promoting veteran opportunities on their national job board
- Soldier On: Participation in employment and pathway nights.
- Warfighter Coffee: Supporting veteran-owned businesses by sourcing our coffee beans.
- Defence SRC: Engagement with the Soldier Recovery Centre, offering facility tours and sharing transition success stories.
- QLD TAFE: Partnering to upskill veterans and prepare them for the workforce.
- Rehabilitation Coordinators: Collaboration with Easec, Career Shift, and Helping Heroes.
- With You With Me: Establishing relationships for digital upskilling.
“Utilising the skills of my past to grow my future with Rheinmetall has been the most uplifting and rewarding part of my transition into civilian life.
As an active reservist, I am still able to continue serving my country.”
Project Manager Operations (ES) Rheinmetall Defence Australia
Join Rheinmetall Defence Australia and become part of a team that values your service and helps you carve out a successful civilian career. Explore our Veteran Engagement Program and discover how we can support your transition today.
For more information please contact our Veterans Specialist at VEP@rheinmetall.com.au
In 2020 Rheinmetall Defence Australia won the Prime Minister’s Veterans Employment Awards for Veterans Employer of the Year (Large). See the video here.
