Thales Australia Partners with Disaster Relief Australia to Support Community Recovery Efforts

Thales Australia Partners with Disaster Relief Australia to Support Community Recovery Efforts

(IN BRIEF) Thales Australia has partnered with Disaster Relief Australia (DRA), a veteran-led not-for-profit organization, to support disaster recovery efforts across the country. As part of the initiative, Thales’ 4,300 employees are eligible for two weeks of paid volunteer leave to assist in community recovery during Australia’s high-risk weather season. This collaboration highlights the company’s commitment to veterans and communities, aligning with the Albanese Government’s $38 million investment in non-defence crisis response capabilities. By leveraging veterans’ skills, this partnership aims to strengthen disaster resilience while supporting mental health and fostering meaningful civilian roles for former service members.

(PRESS RELEASE) LA DÉFENSE, 29-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Thales Australia has become the first Defence prime contractor to partner with the veteran-led not-for-profit organization Disaster Relief Australia (DRA), a collaboration announced as Australia enters its high-risk weather season. The initiative provides Thales’ 4,300 employees across all states and territories with two weeks of paid volunteer leave to assist in disaster recovery efforts, showcasing the company’s commitment to community support and veteran empowerment.

This partnership aligns with the Albanese Government’s $38 million commitment to enhancing non-defence crisis response capabilities, emphasizing the importance of alternative disaster recovery solutions. Founded in 2017, DRA leverages the skills of military veterans and volunteers to aid communities in disaster preparedness and recovery. The organization also offers veterans a meaningful transition into civilian life by fostering a sense of purpose and connection through action.

Veteran Empowerment and Community Impact

DRA’s work has demonstrated a profound impact on veterans’ mental health, as shown by its recent Wellbeing Study. Former DRA CEO Geoff Evans received the Outstanding Contribution to Veteran and/or Partner Employment Award at the Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards, underscoring the organization’s significance.

Nick de Bont, Chair of Thales Australia & New Zealand Veterans Committee and Chief Security Officer at Thales Australia, praised the partnership:
“This collaboration not only strengthens our communities but also highlights the invaluable skills and contributions of veterans. It’s an opportunity for Thales to champion veteran-led initiatives while supporting disaster recovery at a local and national scale.”

Corporate Support in Disaster Recovery

David Smith, Chief Executive of Disaster Relief Australia, acknowledged Thales as a leader in corporate volunteering:
“Thales’ commitment to DRA’s mission demonstrates how businesses can play a critical role in community recovery. We hope this initiative inspires other companies to follow suit.”

Ministerial Endorsement

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Hon. Matt Keogh MP, commended the collaboration at the Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards, describing it as a shining example of business and not-for-profit cooperation to support communities in need.
“Volunteering enables veterans to apply their unique skills while contributing to local disaster recovery efforts. Thales’ initiative exemplifies how the Defence Industry can play a vital role in supporting Australians during crises.”

A Legacy of Support

As one of Australia’s leading defence and technology companies with over 130 years of heritage, Thales is a trusted partner to the Australian Defence Force. Employing more than 400 veterans across 35 sites, the company continues to prioritize veteran transition, ensuring their skills and experience are leveraged to benefit both Defence capabilities and broader community initiatives.

This partnership with DRA marks a significant step in fostering resilience, empowering veterans, and strengthening disaster recovery capabilities across Australia.

About Thales Australia

Thales Australia, with over 130 years of heritage, is a trusted partner to the Australian Defence Force. As one of the country’s leading defence and technology companies, Thales combine’s a deep understanding of Australia’s unique landscape with a commitment to innovation. Thales employees over 400 veterans across 35 sites and continues to identify opportunities for those who have served, ensuring sustainable support for their transition into civilian roles and ongoing contributions to Australia’s Defence capabilities.

Media Contact:

email: MediaEnquiries@thalesgroup.com.au
Tel: +33 (0) 1 57 77 80 00

SOURCE: Thales