Today the Australian Defence Force (ADF) formally recognised the role played by the nation's employers in supporting the call out of Reservists for Operation Bushfire Assist at events in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.
Approximately 3,000 Reservists began progressively deploying from 5 January 2020, to assist state authorities to reopen roads, restore essential services and deliver emergency food, water and fodder to bushfire affected communities across the nation.
Commander 2nd Division, Major General Kathryn Campbell, AO, CSC said the events were an opportunity for the ADF to say thank the employers of Reservists.
"The response from our people to the call out has been extraordinary, responding rapidly and committing to full-time service," Major General Campbell said.
"We are grateful for the support of our people's families and particularly their employers, releasing them from their civilian jobs to deploy with the ADF on Operation Bushfire Assist.
"This unprecedented call out has had a significant impact on the bushfire recovery efforts."
Employers all over Australia have had to reassign tasks, reschedule projects and even renegotiate commitments with their clients during the call out.
"Without the patience, understanding and goodwill of employers, the ADF response would not have been fully enabled to assist state authorities," Major General Campbell said.
"This is our Army at its best, stepping up to help communities in need, contributing in unique ways to protect and support the nation.
"We embrace communities wherever we operate, and partner with others to constantly adapt and get the job done.
"While we will see the support of our Reservists gradually draw-down ADF's focus will continue and move from immediate emergency support to save life and property, to longer-term support to help communities recover and rebuild."
Imagery of Defence's support to Operation Bushfire Assist is available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20192970
Imagery from today's events will be available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20200637
