2026 nominee - Champion of Veteran Employment
Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) champions veteran employment by turning its commitment into practical pathways, workplace support and cross-sector collaboration. Veterans comprise almost 20 per cent of their workforce, demonstrating that commitment by supporting veteran capability, which is embedded in their business—not treated as a standalone initiative.
HDA note that their people are their most valuable asset. HDA’s culture is founded on challenge, dedication and integrity, supported by teamwork, mutual respect and clear opportunities for professional growth. They aim to create an inclusive, high-performing workplace where diverse experience is valued and every employee can contribute to a shared mission.
The HDA Veterans Committee provides employee-led governance and continually strengthens HDA’s approach. This includes veteran-focused recruitment, tailored onboarding, mentoring, Defence Reservist Leave and a dedicated expression-of-interest pathway promoted through Soldier On. Applicants can access support from Soldier On’s Career and Education team and, where no immediate vacancy exists, enter HDA’s talent pool for future roles.
HDA has also moved beyond internal programs to create shared evidence and resources. Working with Legacy Melbourne, Soldier On and RSL Victoria, HDA facilitated a Veteran and Veteran Community Needs Survey informed by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. The collaboration brought a defence prime and three leading ex-service organisations together to identify practical workplace actions that can improve veteran transition, employment and retention. Findings are informing continued collaboration and development of new initiatives.
HDA’s Corporate partnership with Soldier On reinforces this work through advocacy, fundraising and direct engagement. Since 2023, employees have raised approximately $50,000 through March On, while joint recruitment and event activity has connected veterans with career opportunities. HDA’s inaugural Bring a Veteran to Work Day further strengthened understanding across the workforce, bringing together veterans representing more than 500 years of combined service.
Together, these initiatives create a connected system: attract veterans, translate their skills, support them at work, listen to their needs and collaborate on better employment solutions. As a Defence industry employer, HDA is proud to support veterans, reservists and Defence families to build futures beyond service.
HDA’s impact is reflected in its veteran workforce, recognition as a Veteran Employer of Choice via the Australian Government’s Veteran Employment Commitment, and a practical partnership model supporting success after service, within and beyond their workforce. They continue to strengthen their contribution to veteran employment, wellbeing and community connection.
About Hanwha Defence Australia
Hanwha Defence Australia (HDA) is a subsidiary of Hanwha Aerospace, part of the Fortune 500 Hanwha Group. Established in 2019 and headquartered in Melbourne, HDA is building Australia’s sovereign defence capability through advanced land systems, local manufacturing and long-term industry partnerships.