This years ANZAC Day marks 103 years since our ANZACs first landed on the beaches at Gallipoli in the First World War. It also marks the final ANZAC Day of the ANZAC Centenary commemorations in which we remember the original Anzacs and what they fought for.
This ANZAC Day we also commemorate the Centenary of the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux. Throughout April of 1918 Australian and British forces fought tirelessly on the Western Front to recapture the town of Villers-Bretonneux, successfully doing so exactly 3 years after our diggers first stormed the beaches at Gallipoli. This ongoing battle was costly with more than a thousand lives lost during throughout the month.
On Anzac Day we remember all Australians who served and died in all conflicts, wars and operational service.
In recognition of our service men and women a Shorten Labor Government will commit $121 million to a comprehensive Veterans Employment Policy to provide greater support to our defence personnel as they transition to civilian life.
This means there would be greater support for veterans and transitioning ADF personnel in Burt who are moving into the civilian workforce.
Labors plan will help our veterans into good jobs by doing more to boost recognition of their significant skills and experiences, and better support those veterans in the Burt electorate moving into the civilian workforce.
Best estimates cite veterans unemployment as sitting at 30 per cent. For those who did not medically discharge, there is an estimated 11.2 per cent unemployment rate which is more than double the national rate. This is unacceptable.
Labors comprehensive policy will provide greater support to our defence personnel as they transition to civilian life and focuses on the following;
- Helping businesses to train veterans
- A new veterans employment service
- Expanding access to additional education and civilian training
- Translating the experience of veterans
Our targeted measures will strengthen the quality and number of career opportunities for our veterans to ensure their many skills and experience lead to meaningful employment.
When our men and women undertake to serve their country, we make a commitment to them and their family to support them after their time in the ADF. Preparing and working with those leaving the defence force to move into meaningful employment is a key element of successful transition from the ADF to civilian life.
I look forward to speaking with service men, women and veterans in our community about this positive policy and hearing about their experiences at the Armadale RSL Dawn Service, Gosnells RSL breakfast and Kelmscott RSL services this ANZAC Day.
