ANZAC Day is the nation’s opportunity to stop, reflect and acknowledge the sacrifices of our diggers in both past wars, recent conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Recently we’ve seen how adaptable our Defence force personnel can be with vast numbers supporting flood events across QLD and NSW.

1. Every Defence person has undertaken an extensive vetting process. This involves aptitude tests, medicals, psychological assessments, physicals, police checks and security clearances. Most of the work is already done for you!
    
2. They are resilient. Even making it through basic recruit training is grueling mentally and physically. Most operate in high stress environments, with lives or millions of dollars worth of equipment on the line. They are comfortable with being uncomfortable.
    
3. They are disciplined. Mentally and physically, they are used to working in a structured environment, following processes and procedures, and following instructions. One of my favorite quotes seen at an Army gym was ‘Obsessive is the word lazy people use for the dedicated’.
    
4. They are adaptable. Conversely to the previous point, they are trained to respond and problem solve on their feet. Quickly. They are used to constantly evolving and changing environments and will routinely assess risk as they go along.
    
5. They are respectful. They are used to being held to a higher standard of behaviour with military law.
    
6. They are well presented. Shoes will be polished, shirts ironed, and they are used to taking pride in their appearance.
    
7. They are experienced with administrative processes. Regardless of the role, they are working for a large organization that uses a large enterprise system for any personnel changes like applying for leave, new uniform, when getting a new posting etc
    
8. They have received constant first-class training. Every year their training is updated and involves highly transferrable skills like workplace behaviors, mental health and leadership.
    
9. They are adaptable to change. Not every workplace calls you up and says ‘wheels up tomorrow 6am, pack your stuff’ and sends you. . . anywhere!
    
10. They have a good sense of humor. it’s a great survival tool.

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