Where to look for work after leaving Defence
Transitioning from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) can open the door to many different career paths. The leadership, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving skills developed through service are valued across government, business and the not-for-profit sector.
28 Oct 2026
Knowing where to look can make the job search easier. These services and employment pathways provide general information to help current and former ADF members explore veteran-friendly employers and civilian opportunities.
Defence employment opportunities
The Department of Defence’s Veteran Temporary Employment Register provides a pathway for transitioning ADF members and veterans to access non-ongoing Australian Public Service (APS) employment for up to 18 months.
This can be an opportunity to gain civilian workplace experience while continuing to contribute to Defence and the Australian community.
Australian Public Service roles
APSJobs advertises employment opportunities across Australian Government departments and agencies.
Veterans joining the APS may also be eligible for APS VetPaths. This pathway supports veterans who secure a role with a participating agency through induction, learning and development, career mentoring, peer connections and wellbeing workshops.
You can register for APSJobs alerts to receive notifications when relevant positions, including roles connected with VetPaths, are advertised.
Veteran-friendly employers
The Veteran Employment Commitment organisation directory can help you identify employers that have committed to recruiting, retaining and supporting veterans.
More than 600 organisations are listed. You can filter them by location, industry, organisation size, remote-working opportunities and veteran employment practices. Once you find an organisation that interests you, visit its careers page to see current vacancies.
Organisations are recognised as a Veteran Employment Supporter, Veteran Friendly Employer or Veteran Employer of Choice, based on the employment practices and support they provide.
Search jobs valuing Defence experience
Workforce Australia lists vacancies from employers across Australia.
To find relevant roles, enter your location and preferred occupation, then select Defence Force Experience Desirable under the Vacancy Type filter. You can also search using terms such as “veteran” or skills connected with your Defence role.
The Veteran Employment Program also identifies veteran-focused employment platforms, including APOD’s employment initiative and the RSL Employment Program jobs board.
State and territory governments offer additional veteran employment programs and public-sector pathways. Links to programs in each jurisdiction are available through the Veteran Employment Program’s support and resources page.
Get help preparing your application
The Veteran Employment Toolkit includes practical resources to help you plan your civilian career, apply for jobs and adjust to a new workplace. It can also help you recognise your transferable skills and explain your Defence experience in language civilian employers understand.
The Joint Transition Authority’s Defence Force Transition Program can connect you with a Transition Support Officer and provide:
- job search preparation workshops
- specialist employment assistance
- recognition of military skills and qualifications
- access to eligible training and upskilling
- transition coaching and personalised planning.
Support through the Defence Force Transition Program remains available for up to 24 months after separation. Contact your nearest ADF Transition Centre to get started.
Keeping your super with CSC is simple
Wherever your post-service career takes you, CSC can stay by your side. Taking your super with you is simple.