Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is one of the largest regional local government employers on the Mid North Coast of NSW, delivering essential services and infrastructure that support a thriving and connected community.
As a regional employer, the Council recognises the significant value that veterans bring to the workforce through their leadership, adaptability, problem-solving skills and commitment to service. Council is committed to creating meaningful employment pathways for veterans, while supporting successful transitions from military to civilian careers.
The Council has also achieved Veteran Friendly Employer status via the Veteran Employment Commitment, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to fostering a workplace where veterans feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute their skills and experience.
In 2024, the Council formalised its commitment to veteran employment through the introduction of a Veteran Employment Program aligned with state-based veteran employment initiatives and the principles of the Veteran Employment Commitment.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s Veteran Employment Program is a multi-faceted program designed to attract, recruit, support and retain veterans in regional Australia. Introduced in 2024, the initiative increases awareness of local government careers, supports successful transitions into civilian employment and fosters a workplace where veterans can thrive.
These initiatives include a Veterans Open Day to showcase career opportunities in local government, a veteran connection program that links new veteran employees with existing veteran employees during onboarding, and the development of a veteran careers video podcast (vodcast) series highlighting career pathways and the experiences of veterans working in local government.
The Council's Veteran Employment Program has delivered measurable outcomes in attraction, retention, employee experience and workforce participation, while increasing awareness of local government career opportunities for veterans in regional Australia. A key outcome has been increased awareness of local government as a viable and rewarding career pathway for current and former ADF personnel. The initiative has also contributed to growth in veteran employment within Council, improved inclusion and employee experience.
Through continuous improvement and collaboration, the Council is building awareness of local government career opportunities for veterans while strengthening workforce capability and supporting veteran employment outcomes in regional Australia. These outcomes demonstrate how a regional employer can create meaningful pathways into employment, foster inclusion, recognise and value existing veterans and retain valuable skills, experience and leadership within regional communities.