29 Sep 2015

Recent events around the world have left too many without and too few ready to lend a helping hand.

You might be the first of your friends that is always willing to put yourself last, and that’s what makes you who you are; you put money in the begging cup of a stranger, you give to others when you can, but you still want to do more. You are especially proud of who you are and where you’re from and want to represent that pride in the service of others.

The Army Reserve is made up of everyday Aussies who are ready to step up to any challenge, if and when the country needs. Opportunities in this space aren’t restricted to just Australia; if you choose to be deployed, you could be providing assistance to tsunami and earthquake victims, or helping with peacekeeping efforts further abroad. Those affected first-hand by natural disasters will see your face as the front line of assistance.

You are required to serve a minimum of twenty days a year as an Army Reservist, though there are opportunities to do further training exercises and go on deployments. You’re given the chance for a flexible commitment but still one that, when you participate, you will feel and see the immediate positive effect you’re having on others.

You may be the first line of aid for those that are hurting the most as a result of natural and other disasters. They might be within Australia, or they might be from people left to pick up the pieces in places like Nepal; either way, you will be making a difference.

Feeling good about the work you’re doing isn’t the only benefit of joining the Army Reserves. These members become your mates for life, you will gain expert training and unmatchable life experience, and your Reservist income goes straight into your pocket tax- free. The Army Reserve will also work closely with your civilian employer to compensate  your absence, so if you are deployed it won’t be at a detriment to your lifestyle when you  return to civilian life.

The benefits are listless, really, in terms of being a better citizen and representative of your Aussie pride. You are capable of making this world a better place and taking care of your neighbour sets the standard for future generations. Pride in your work and the dedication to protect those in greater need than yourself sets you above and beyond your current call of duty. The Army Reserves don’t want you to quit your day job, they merely want you to take a small portion of your time to show a helping hand to someone else you may never meet again but will always be remembered by.

For more information on careers in the Army Reserve visit defencejobs.gov.au/armyreserve or call 13 19 01.