The existing Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC), which has provided strong support to employers and reservists for the past 42 years, will be dissolved at the end of 2019.
A new advisory body will be established to manage ADF Reserves by providing links to industry and employers, as well as advice and recommendations to the Chief of the Defence Force.
Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel Darren Chester said Defence recognised the changing approach to the part-time and shared workforce and is adapting to these changes.
“To achieve its mission to defend Australia and its national interests, the ADF relies on a 90,000 strong workforce,” Minister Chester said.
“Because of the work of organisations such as the DRSC, reservists are now an integral part of the ADF’s capability.
“Defence will be able to build stronger relationships with reservists and their employers by allowing them to directly communicate with Defence through effective and targeted engagement.”
In a statement, Defence said its commitment to supporting reservists and their employers remains unchanged, and that this new approach will be fit for purpose and aims to deliver the best capability from this valued and flexible shared workforce.
According to Defence, the new model will emphasise the importance of the relationship with reservists and their employers, providing a consistent approach to people capability and the important role reservists play in Defence’s total workforce model.
“The work of DRSC members over the last 42 years has created a solid and positive relationship with Australian Industry and Defence will continue building upon that good work,” Minister Chester said.
“I would like to thank all members of the DRSC, past and present and those Australians who have lent their support as Patrons and Ambassadors. We are grateful for your support.”