Claire Harris at 2024 Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards. Photo credit: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
The annual Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards recognise outstanding contributions of Australian organisations and individuals in supporting veterans and their partners/spouses. The Awards celebrate organisations that have made significant efforts as employers and other categories honour individual veterans and partners who have excelled as employees or entrepreneurs.
A three-member judging panel, composed of independent and impartial experts from Australian business, the Australian Defence Force, and the Australian Public Service, carefully assess each award category.
Awards part of Government’s Veteran Employment Program
The Awards are a significant pillar of the Government’s Veteran Employment Program, which actively assists veterans in transitioning to civilian roles and helps organisations foster work environments where veterans and their partners can thrive as employees.
Matt Keogh MP, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel and the Federal Member for Burt at the 2024 Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards. Photo credit: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
As the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, the Hon Matt Keogh MP highlighted, “These awards demonstrate just how much the veteran community has to offer after their Australian Defence Force service. The Royal Commission made it clear that there is more to do to improve transition for veterans, we’re taking that seriously and the Veteran Employment Program plays a significant part in that.”
Claire Harris recognised as a finalist in the Partner Entrepreneur of the Year category
On October 15th, Matt Keogh announced the finalists for the 2024 Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards in 8 categories. It was an honour to learn of this prestigious recognition of Human Quotient’s Co-Founder and Strategic Director Claire Harris as a finalist in the Partner Entrepreneur of the Year category.
Claire has demonstrated a deep commitment to driving meaningful, positive change through her leadership of Human Quotient Group and the creation and delivery of the Cowork Coplay program. By seamlessly blending her personal passions with professional expertise, her work powerfully illustrates how dedication by one person can start to catalyse impactful societal transformation.
The 2024 Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards event took place on November 26th at Old Parliament House in Canberra, where the Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, and the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh, recognised individuals and organisations across Australia for supporting veteran employment.
Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, speaking at the 2024 Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards. Photo credit: Department of Veterans’ Affairs
“Along with every other thing, strength and quality you bring to the table, you are sources of inspiration” the Prime Minister said as he described the finalists and winners during his speech.
Cowork Coplay gives partners of current and ex-serving ADF members space to focus on their careers
Claire launched her own business in 2015 and inspired by her experiences and those of Defence families, created the Cowork Coplay program; a supportive group setting designed to offer career development, community connection, and childcare. The program runs for 6-8 weeks, combining workshops, self-directed learning, external mentors to enable participants to pursue work activities that are meaningful to them.
Recognising gaps in existing services, Claire’s mission with Cowork Coplay is to amplify human capability and address the needs of those linked to Defence service. The program not only provides practical career support, but also fosters a strong sense of community among participants. Through her work, Claire has established a robust network of alumni and a dynamic online presence that raises awareness about the issues faced by people linked to Defence service.
By boosting wellbeing, morale, and professional development, Cowork Coplay serves the unique needs of the Defence and veteran community.
Many people part of the Cowork Coplay story
“Being a part of the Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards has been an incredible highlight and honour,” said Claire.
“As an entrepreneur, and the creator of Cowork Coplay programs, I have always had a vision. Seeing others resonate with that vision is uplifting.
“I see an Australia where being in a family with a veteran means being part of a strong community, having opportunities to pursue a meaningful career, and thriving. I see a country where employers see the partners of our current- and former-serving members and acknowledge their talent, their adaptability and their can-do attitudes. And where society values families linked to service because it’s the right thing to do and it’s important to our national security.
“I’ve loved every minute working with the supporters of Cowork Coplay, the Program Facilitators in 2024 (both RAAF spouses) and the participants. You’ve all inspired me and been part of this story; thank you,” said Claire.
Congratulations to the winners
We wish to congratulate all the winners. Read more about the winners and finalists on the Awards website.
Left to Right: Ron Kovalcik; Admiral David Johnston, the Chief of the Defence Force; Claire Harris. At the Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards 2024.
