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Founded in 2017, DRA unites the skills and experience of military veterans and other volunteers to help communities prepare for and recover from disasters. DRA provides veterans the opportunity to grow beyond military service while transitioning into civilian life; aiding communities through direct support, and benefiting volunteers through action and service. The positive impact of DRA’s work was recently recognised at the Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards, where DRA’s former CEO Geoff Evans was personally awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Veteran and/or Partner Employment award.

The results of DRA’s , showed the direct link between veteran volunteers and improvements in mental health. We are proud to partner with DRA to work together for our communities, while championing veterans and their invaluable skills and contributions.” – Nick de Bont, Chair, Thales Australia & New Zealand Veterans Committee, Colonel in the Australian Army Reserve, and Chief Security Officer at Thales Australia.

Quotes attributable to Disaster Relief Australia:

Disaster Relief Australia Chief Executive David Smith AM, CSC, DSM said Thales is helping to set the agenda when it comes to corporate volunteering.

“We welcome Thales’ decision to include Disaster Relief Australia within its volunteer leave policy. Corporate Australia is instrumental in assisting with community disaster recovery. Providing employees with the flexibility and support to help where it is needed most is significant. I urge employers across Australia to follow Thales’ lead. “

Quotes attributable to Thales Australia: 

Thales Australia’s Chief Security Officer Nick De Bont said the relationship between DRA and Thales sets a positive example to the wider business community on how business can support their communities both locally and at a larger national scale. 

“One of the reasons veterans’ transition to work in Defence Industry is to continue a sense of service to their country. While Thales’ DRA paid volunteer leave policy extends to all employees, DRA’s mission and operations provide communal purpose, a sense of community, and comradery that speaks to the over 400 veterans that work at Thales.”

“As a defence industry employer with many veterans as part of the workforce, Thales is a valuable resource for DRA and we look forward to forging a valuable and enduring relationship. We hope Thales’ initiative is the start of many more between business and DRA” 

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs: 

At the Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards on 26 November 2024, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Matt Keogh MP said this initiative between DRA and Thales is an excellent example of cooperation between business and not-for-profit organisations to support our communities in need. 

“Volunteering is the lifeblood of our community, enabling veterans to contribute their skills through organisations like DRA is a fantastic way Defence Industry can support Aussies in need and contribute to capability at home.”

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.