Soldier On brought together veterans, supporters, philanthropists and corporate partners at a special VIP Business Breakfast hosted by KPMG at its Collins Street offices in Melbourne this morning.
The event created space for reflection and meaningful conversation – shining a light on the challenges veterans face as they transition from military to civilian life, and the role that employers play in helping them build successful post-service careers.
Partnership with purpose
CEO Paul Singer joined KPMG staff and long-time supporters to celebrate partnership, purpose and progress.
Paul welcomed guests and shared an update on Soldier On’s national programs, highlighting the organisation’s impact across health and wellbeing, employment, learning and education, and social connection – all captured in the newly released Impact Report 2024–2025.
‘Our mission has always been clear,’ Paul said. ‘To support veterans and their loved ones as they transition into fulfilling, meaningful civilian lives. That work is only possible through community, understanding, and partnerships like the one we celebrate today.’
Reflecting on the report’s central themes, Paul reminded the room that remembrance is not only about reflection, but about action.
‘At Soldier On, remembrance is active. It’s a commitment – not just to memory, but to care,’ he said. ‘From remembrance comes renewal – the belief that the next chapter can be even stronger than the last. At Soldier On, we see that renewal every day through our HELP model – Health, Employment, Learning and Participation. Veterans stepping into new careers, families rebuilding confidence, individuals rediscovering purpose – and communities forming around shared experience.’
KPMG Partner and Airforce veteran Wendell Fox shares his story
Wendell Fox, a Partner in KPMG’s Defence practice, took the floor. Having served 20 years in the Royal Australian Air Force, Wendell shared his personal experience of transition – from life in uniform to the corporate world.
‘For me, it’s a personal as well as a professional connection,’ Wendell said. ‘Soldier On’s mission resonates deeply with those of us who’ve served and those who continue to work alongside Defence every day.’
Wendell explained that while veterans bring a wealth of transferable skills, these strengths don’t always align neatly with civilian job descriptions. ‘Those lessons have shaped everything I’ve done since, and they’re exactly the kind of qualities veterans bring into every new chapter of life,’ he said.He also reflected on his participation in Soldier On’s annual March On Challenge.
‘What struck me most during that time was the generosity of the people around me. Every donation, big or small, went toward something tangible,’ he said.
Creating community and conversations
Paul then introduced Joe Piasecki, a Royal Australian Navy veteran and former submariner, who features in Episode 2 of Soldier On’s podcast – Saluting Their Service: Contemporary Voices of Bravery.
Joe spoke with honesty and heart about his time in the Navy – the long months spent away from his young family, the pride of service, and the difficult period of finding his footing after leaving Defence. He reflected on how Soldier On helped him reconnect with community and rebuild confidence during that transition.
KPMG’s own commitment to hiring and supporting veterans was on display, with many former Defence members, including Soldier On co-founder John Bale, now working across the firm’s Australian offices.
By the end of the morning, one message was clear: when employers take the time to understand Defence experience, they gain exceptional team members – and help build stronger communities in the process.
Shared purpose and an ongoing commitment
The breakfast was a reminder that successful transition requires a shared effort – from organisations, communities and individuals alike.
Paul Singer thanked KPMG for hosting the event and for its ongoing partnership with Soldier On. He also acknowledged the veterans, families and supporters who continue to engage with the organisation’s programs and events across Australia.
‘We know that every veteran’s story is unique,’ Paul said. ‘Through connection, understanding and opportunity, we can ensure that those who’ve served are supported to build new purpose in the next chapter of their lives.’
Continue the conversation
To hear more about Joe Piasecki’s story, listen to episode 2 of Saluting Their Service – Contemporary Voices of Bravery, available now on Spotify and YouTube via the Soldier On website.
