Australia’s submarine builder ASC has strengthened its commitment to the veteran community by establishing a dedicated Veterans Advisory Committee aimed at supporting ex-serving personnel within its workforce.
Comprising both veterans and non-veterans, the committee will champion the needs of former service employees, strengthen veteran inclusion across the organisation and create clearer pathways for those transitioning into civilian careers in Australia’s defence industry. The initiative is designed to embed veterans’ lived experience into ASC’s policies and culture, while reinforcing professional development and retention.
More than 100 veterans are currently employed across a broad range of roles at ASC. Acting chief executive officer Alex Walsh said the new committee reflected the company’s long-standing appreciation of their contribution.
“Veterans have made an immense and lasting contribution to ASC for more than 40 years,” Alex said.
“More than 100 veterans currently work at ASC in a wide range of roles. The establishment of the Veterans Advisory Committee, along with our involvement in the South Australian Veteran Employer Network, is one way we honour their service and ensure our organisation remains a place where their experience is valued, respected and supported.
“Veterans are central to building a diverse, inclusive and highly skilled workforce that will deliver and sustain Australia’s submarines for generations to come.”
In October last year, ASC joined the South Australian Veteran Employer Network, facilitated by Veterans SA. The network connects employers seeking to build veteran-ready workplaces and share guidance and expertise to strengthen employment practices across the state.
Chief people and workforce development officer Joanne Horne said veterans brought distinctive qualities shaped by their service.
“Veterans contribute unique skills, perspectives and values shaped by their service to Australia,” Joanne said.
“They lead with integrity, they bring resilience, and they communicate and solve problems with clarity and purpose – qualities that make them exceptional contributors at ASC.
“The Veterans Advisory Committee ensures ex-serving employees have a meaningful voice in shaping policies and programs that genuinely support them, whether they have recently transitioned or have been part of the ASC family for many years. It is an important step in strengthening how we recognise value and care for one another.”
South Australian minister for veterans affairs and minister for industry, innovation and science Joe Szakacs said strengthening pathways for veterans was vital as the state delivered major defence projects.
“Veterans bring valuable skills and real-world experience that strengthen South Australia’s defence industry and supporting their transition into civilian roles benefits veterans, employers and the capability of our state,” minister Szakacs said.
“ASC’s new Veterans Advisory Committee is an important step that supports ex-serving personnel into meaningful careers and helps grow the skilled defence workforce South Australia will need for the decades ahead.”
