25 October 2024: The 91直播 has launched the Veteran Tertiary Support Program, a new initiative offering tailored support services and a smooth transition into university study for current and former Australian Defence Force (defence) members.
Through the program, current and former defence members receive an automatic selection rank based on their Defence rank and experience, as well as credit for eligible units. They will also have access to a range of tailored support and benefits.
Immediate family of a former or current defence member can also access support services available through the program.
The program recognises the significant contributions that defence members and their families make to the University and broader community, and aims to ease the transition from Defence into civilian life.
Pictured here are Director of Student Life Mara Eversons, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Professor Michelle Lincoln, Veterans’ Tertiary Support Program Specialist Jo Washington-King and UC students, Amanda McCue and Al Charry at the official launch event.
Transition out of uniform can be a challenging time – Al Charry knows that well.
Mr Charry served in the Australian Army for 27 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. As he moved out of the Defence force, Mr Charry was looking for a way to translate his military service and skills into a corporate career.
Although he had already attained a Master of Military and Defence Studies at another university, he was eager to return to a foundational level of study. He landed on a Bachelor of Laws at the 91直播.
“The reputation of the Law school here is fantastic,” Mr Charry said.
“For me, the biggest challenge has been going back to study at that undergrad level, because I’ve been out of that mindset for a very long time.
“But I found that the journey, while very challenging, has been very productive. I’ve been really impressed first and foremost with the level of teaching here at the university. The faculty staff are fantastic, always very welcoming and willing to assist.”
Amanda McCue is also studying a Bachelor of Laws at the University.
Her partner served for 30 years in the Air Force, which meant frequent relocations for their family, – at one point, six relocations within a ten-year span – as well as extended periods as the sole parent in the household, while her partner travelled for training or deployment.
When it came time for her partner to transition out of the Defence force, she realised she had an opportunity to set down roots, and embark on a new and fulfilling career of her own.
“As a Defence partner, you don't always have a say in where you go, when you go there, and how long you be there so it can be very disruptive in terms of education and employment” Ms McCue said.
“When I realised that his time in the Air Force was coming to an end, it was an opportunity for me to do something that I wanted to do, on my own timeline.”
Returning to university after many years can be a daunting prospect for many, particularly with the modernisation of learning, and adoption of online and hybrid offerings.
Ms McCue initially held some reservations about returning to study, but quickly settled in and discovered a supportive environment of students and staff. She even picked up a role at Careers UC, where she works on campus part-time while completing her studies.
“Classes have been fantastic. My lecturers and tutors have been amazing. It's been great to be both a staff member and a student here. I've really become part of the UC community, and it's given me exactly what I was looking for,” Ms McCue said.
Ms McCue would recommend other Defence family members consider study, particularly with the flexibility afforded by hybrid and online options.
“Any Defence family member who is thinking that they would like to invest in themselves, especially if that relates to their partner transitioning out of Defence, then I would highly recommend enrolling at UC,” she said.
“I think with the hybrid learning environment and the options to study online, it also makes a great option for partners who are still experiencing all of those frequent relocations– you can take that degree with you when you move.”
The program joins a suite of supports available for current and former defence members and their families, including access to the , which facilitates social connection and peer support for the Defence community at the University.