Just over a year ago, Ronan Gotch and Julian Turner commenced work at our head office in Canberra, ACT, as a part of DHA’s 2019 Legacy Internship Program.

With their 12 month placements completed in January 2020, both Ronan and Julian have now moved into roles across the business.

‘I initially viewed the internship as a stepping stone in my career, however after experiencing various types of work between business areas and meeting lots of wonderful people, it was an easy decision to stay,’ Julian said.

‘I enjoy being part of a team and seeing the effort I put in having a positive effect on the team’s objectives.’

One of Julian’s most enjoyable experiences in the past year was working with Corporate Strategy and Enabling Services on DHA’s 2018–19 Annual Report.

‘Holding a physical copy of something I contributed to which reflects the business is something I am proud of,’ Julian said.

Julian has taken up the position of an Administrative Support Officer, while Ronan is working as a Leasing Support Officer. Ronan returned to the Leasing team after an introduction to this part of our business during his internship rotations in 2019—an experience which taught him new skills in time management, professional writing and business etiquette, as well as establishing a healthy work life balance.

‘Overall, the experience has been educational as well as rewarding,’ Ronan said.

‘This internship provided me with a variety of new skills and a lifestyle shift.'

‘If you want to try something different and develop a range of administrative skills in an office environment in an entry level role, this would be a good place to start.’

DHA’s Legacy Internship Program offers 12 months of employment which provides for the completion of a Certificate III in Business. The internship program is available to dependents of current or past ADF members who are beneficiaries of Legacy Australia.

The program offers valuable on the job training and work experience. It is designed to provide our interns with a foot in the door to start their working life.

The Legacy Internship Program demonstrates DHA’s responsibility in supporting ADF members and their families, and provides an opportunity for us to give back to the community.