Reservist employers to receive a boost

Employers of Defence Reservists and self-employed Reservists claiming financial assistance through the Employer Support Payment Scheme (ESPS) will now receive more money.

Employer Support Payments (ESP) rose on 1 July 2011 from $1,243.10 to $1,288.10, for every week full-time employee Reservists are away from their civilian jobs, once the qualifying period of two weeks and other eligibility criteria are satisfied.

“The scheme was introduced to provide financial assistance to employers and self-employed Reservists,” said Major General Paul Brereton, Head Cadet, Reserve and Employer Support Division.

“The weekly payment helps offset the costs associated with the absence of Reservist employees who are performing Defence service.”

To qualify for ESP payments an employer’s Reservist employees must perform Defence service for five or more consecutive days after completing the qualifying period.

Employers can download claim forms at www.defence.gov.au/reserves.

Defence Reserves Support staff are available on 1800 803 485 to help resolve any queries