TasPorts wins National Defence Reserve Employer Support Award

TasPorts was first recognised with the Employer of the Year Award, in the category of Private, medium-sized business at the Tasmanian Employer Support Awards on 29 March 2019. The State and Territory award winners then proceed to compete for the National Awards.

Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Darren Chester MP said the awards showcased those employers that actively supported their Defence Force Reservists in the workplace, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to both their civilian and military roles.

“The support of employers such as the ones recognised here tonight enable our Defence Force Reservists to be released from their civilian roles to perform a variety of roles across the three services within the Defence Force,” Mr Chester said.

“Through their Defence Force Reserve service, our Reservists gain skills and knowledge that they can then transfer back into their civilian workplaces, providing a direct benefit to not only the workplace but to themselves as employees.

“The Employer Support Awards acknowledge on a state, territory and national level the contribution that employers make to the Australian Defence Force by providing working conditions and policies that support Reserve service.”

TasPorts was nominated for the award by Major Michael Hartwell of 2nd Force Support Battalion, to acknowledge all the support and flexibility from his employer.

TasPorts recognised Major Hartwell’s need to undertake a sustained series of promotion courses to enable his career progression as an Army Officer.

Anthony Donald, Chief Executive Officer (Acting), said TasPorts recognised that the Australian Defence Force leadership training was invaluable.

“We saw the value in terms of Michael’s wellbeing and career satisfaction, as well as the experience and professional development that he would bring back for the benefit of the organisation,” Mr Donald said.

According to Mr Donald, TasPorts is a corporation that provides tangible support to ADF Reservists, has a Reserve Leave Policy, and provides the flexibility required to ensure an effective career for reservists.

“We have an active interest in Reserve career progression and have an understanding of the skills and the added value of the training and experience that a reservist can bring to the organisation,” he said.

“Our understanding of the Army Reserve service has increased exponentially with representatives attending Executive Stretch, Boss Lift, Employer Challenge Day as well as other Defence activities.

I highly recommend employers take as many opportunities as possible to learn more about the work the reservists within their organisations undertake and how the training and development the individuals receive can mutually benefit the ADF as well as the business.

It also helped the organisation understand some of the challenges Reservists face and the value that their service and training brings to their civilian employment.

Mr Donald said he was proud to accept the Award on behalf of the TasPorts.

“TasPorts has taken steps towards improving the internal culture of the organisation. This Award demonstrates that the steps already taken are working and supports our ongoing commitment to continue this important work,” Mr Donald said.