The University has been awarded Veteran Employment Commitment status for its efforts in creating a veteran-supportive workplace.
UNSW has been formally recognised as a Veteran Employment Commitment (VEC) Supporter, strengthening its support for Australia's veteran community.
The VEC program, administered by the Department of Veterans' Affairs, recognises organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to recruiting, supporting and retaining veteran employees. The program is part of a national effort to support veterans in transitioning out of military service and applying their skills in the civilian workforce.
UNSW is one of three universities recognised as a VEC Supporter, the foundational tier for organisations on their veteran support journey. The term veteran refers to a person who has served or is serving in the permanent or reserve elements of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Professor Emma Sparks, Rector and Dean of UNSW Canberra, said the recognition reinforced UNSW's commitment to veteran employment.
"This recognition highlights UNSW's efforts to create meaningful employment pathways for veterans and to support their transition from military to civilian life," Prof. Sparks said. "It also highlights the University's commitment to recognising the broad range of unique skills, experience and leadership that veterans bring to the workplace."
Being granted VEC status further strengthens the long-standing relationship between UNSW and Australia's Defence community. UNSW has been a trusted partner to the Australian Defence Force through defence research, education programs, and its role in educating future defence leaders at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).
"This enduring partnership positions UNSW to support veteran communities nationwide, through tailored academic pathways, professional development opportunities and wellbeing support," Prof. Sparks said. "With the VEC framework, UNSW will be further expanding opportunities for veterans to build fulfilling post‑service careers across teaching, research, professional services and industry‑linked roles."
This recognition highlights UNSW's efforts to create meaningful employment pathways for veterans and to support their transition from military to civilian life.
Empowering veterans at UNSW
VEC organisations are assessed on verified activities across recruitment, support, retention, and leadership commitment. UNSW offers a dedicated support contact for veteran employees and attends Defence Transition Seminars as part of the UNSW Canberra Veterans and Families Strategy.
UNSW also actively recognises and honours military service across the University community, including commemoration of key events such as Remembrance Day and ANZAC Day and a military leave policy to support ongoing service commitments. Veteran staff also have access to health and well-being services, flexible work arrangements, career development and mentoring opportunities, and employee networks and community connections.
The next phase of the Strategy will focus on developing tailored support and will introduce programs that directly strengthen pathways to employment at UNSW. This will include providing job application advice, tools and resources to support transition to the civilian workforce; developing recruitment approaches that recognise military experience; adapting interview and selection practices to better translate defence skills; and supporting career development and retention through veteran-specific opportunities.
Find out more about UNSW's Veterans Program and the VEC program .
