Employment outcomes among transitioned Australian Defence Force members: An exploration of sex differences

Transitioning to civilian life is a challenging period of adjustment for military personnel. Gaining civilian employment after leaving the military has several benefits for mental and physical health, yet it is one of many challenges Veterans face. Females are largely under-represented in Veteran unemployment research despite having unique experiences during service that may affect employment after transition.

This secondary data analysis of a sub-sample of males and females who recently transitioned out of the Australian Defence Force explores sex differences in terms of transition, service, and individual factors associated with unemployment.

Findings showed female unemployment was greater among those with children, who transitioned at a younger age, and who lived in stable housing, which may be explained by primary caregiving responsibilities. Age at time of transition, having children, and living in stable housing differentially affected unemployment among females and males, whereas number of years served, level of psychological distress, number of recent life events, transition status, and discharge reason were shown to affect employment outcomes for females and males alike. Factors found to be unequally associated with employment outcomes for males were time since transition, service type, and level of education.

Findings indicate that employment outcomes are associated with varied factors for females and males. Further research is needed to develop greater awareness of female transition experiences to ensure that services support the unique needs of females leaving the military.