As an initiative of the Prince’s Trust Australia Enterprise programme, the ceremony will be hosted by Chair of the Enterprise for Veterans’ Advisory Council, His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret'd), Governor-General of Australia; and Chair of Prince’s Trust Australia, the Honourable Julie Bishop.
CBA’s Executive General Manager of Small Business Banking, Clare Morgan, who is presenting at the awards said the occasion is a great opportunity to recognise the estimated 30,000 business owners who have transitioned from service to entrepreneurship.
“In my role, I have witnessed first-hand the motivation, focus and passion that veterans and Defence Force families put into their small businesses and in the delivery of exceptional customer service. The introduction of the Prince’s Trust Australia’s Beyond Services Awards allows us to celebrate all the hard work that goes into building these businesses, and the valuable role they have in the community.”
Julie Hall, CBA Business Banker and proud veteran spouse and parent of a currently enlisted Defence Force member, is a judge at the awards.
“As an active member in the veteran community, I know the challenges many veterans and their families experience when they return from service and begin to start or grow their own business. To be recognised by the Prince’s Trust Australia, which is personally supported by His Majesty the King among other dignitaries, is an honour and a wonderful recognition of this resilient community,” said Ms Hall.
Chief Executive of Prince’s Trust Australia, Michelle Endacott, said, “We are impressed by the calibre of our finalists and the diversity of their business interests and industries. Veterans and Defence Force families continue to serve our communities beyond their time in service to our nation’s Defence Force. We wish to recognise all our inaugural Award nominees for their ongoing efforts in business across Australia.”
In addition to supporting the awards, CBA recently announced a new team of dedicated business bankers to support past and present members of the Australian Defence Force and their families, who are looking to start or grow their own business.
This team of business bankers – among which are employees that are members of the veteran community, including Reservists in the ADF as well as family of service members – offer tailored support to the veteran community as well as discounts and offers on business support materials and technology to help manage their business operations.
CBA also recently partnered with the Veteran Community Business Chamber to deliver a financial literacy program to the veteran community, including sessions on managing cash flow, and leadership and marketing – equipping veterans and their families with resources and skills to transform their businesses from ideation to creation.
Learn more about the Beyond Services Awards and finalists.
For more information or to request a call with a dedicated business banker, Veterans and their family members can visit www.commbank.com.au/veterans.
