Corporal Dannielle Tasker – repping Army’s ServeOn work initiative

In July 2021, Corporal Dannielle Tasker knew it was time to try something different.

CAPTION: Corporal Dannielle Tasker at Russell offices in Canberra. Story by Jon Kroiter. Photo by Kym Smith.

Having served as a command support clerk for more than a decade, she felt comfortable in her role and was ready to take on a new challenge.

“While I was looking for something outside Army and that next challenge, I wasn’t quite ready to hang up my uniform just yet,” Corporal Tasker said.

“I love continuing to serve – just in a part-time capacity.”

She found a civilian opportunity as a consultant and a remote serving opportunity that allowed her to contribute to Army in her previous trade.

However, Corporal Tasker soon realised she missed the interactions and connection to people in a unit.

As a result, she was able to adjust how she served.

She began serving on Tuesday nights regularly, but then also chose to serve a couple of hours remotely, too.

“I absolutely love it,” Corporal Tasker said.

“I’m there to help, and it really gives me that job satisfaction.

“I go home at the end of every Tuesday night really happy with what I’ve achieved.”

Corporal Tasker has found she’s achieving a great work-life balance, with her civilian employer and unit understanding the fluctuations that occur in both roles.

“It’s been great and really flexible,” Corporal Tasker said.

“There have been nights where I’ve messaged the unit saying that I can’t make it, and they’re more than supportive.”

Likewise, her employer is aware of the financial assistance available to them and has ensured she is able to take leave to serve, especially in high-risk weather seasons.

The flexibility has allowed her to take up new opportunities, while remaining connected to Army in a way that suits her lifestyle.

“It’s that sense of community and mateship,” Corporal Tasker said.

“I love putting on a uniform. It makes me feel a part of something bigger.”

ServeOn is an Army initiative that lets people serve on their own terms.

There are roles to suit location, availability and other circumstances by using OneArmy.Potential or ForceNet.

To discuss flexible service options, submit a contact form and the local contingent workforce management cell will be in touch.

For more information, go to: army.gov.au/our-work/army-reserves/serveon

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