There are so many free resources available to veterans ranging from support services and community activities. These resources are designed for you so don’t be shy, there is something for every veteran and every need.
Physical and Mental Health Services
| Name | Website or Phone Number | Description | Who is eligible to access this service |
| Safe Zone Support | 1800 142 072 | These free professional counsellors understand military culture and can provide support and a listening ear without needing to know who you are, or when or where you served (the service is completely anonymous). | Current and former serving veterans and their families |
| ADF Chaplaincy Services | Call 1300 333 362 and ask to speak to the on-call Chaplain in your area. | ADF Chaplains provide independent support and referrals to assist members in accessing health and wellbeing services. They are committed to creating a safe, supportive, inclusive and caring environment. Chaplains are available 24/7. | Current serving veterans and their families |
| RSL DVA Advocates | https://www.rslaustralia.org/advocacy | The RSL has nearly 600 trained volunteer advocates to help you navigate the DVA claims process. This free service includes providing advice, helping you complete your application, helping ensure you have the right documentation, and supporting you throughout the process. | Current and former serving veterans. |
| Military and Emergency Services Health Australia | https://mesha.org.au/ | MESHA offers a range of free services aimed at improving mental and physical health. Services include family and individual therapy, a 12 week Group Emotional and Relationship Skills (GEARS) Program, the Wellbeing for Australian Veterans and Emergency Services (WAVES) Program, and the Veterans Arts Program. | Current and former serving veterans in the Adelaide area |
| Military Art Program Australia | https://www.militaryartprogram.com.au/ | Based in Perth this organisation provides a wide range of visual arts experiences designed to support veterans and enhance their mental health. Delivered by professional artists, the organisation offers classes in photography, painting, drawing, woodburning, journaling, creative writing, bookbinding, printmaking, and sculpture. All classes with the exception of pottery are free. | Current and former serving veterans. The organisation also offers some classes to partners of veterans. |
| Invictus Australia Fitness Programs | https://invictusaustralia.org/events/list/ | Invictus runs a range of free fitness classes for veterans. Whether it is free yoga sessions (Nowra, Toowoomba, Canberra), a women in fitness HIIT program (Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Townsville), an indoor rowing program (Nowra, Toowoomba), barefoot bowls (Darwin, Nowra), or trekking (Canberra, Newcastle), these programs promote social engagement with likeminded veterans while supporting your physical and mental health. | Current and former serving veterans |
| Remount | https://remount.org.au/ | Remount, located one hour from Canberra in Bowning, delivers free horsemanship programs for veterans and their families who may be experiencing stress related to their service, PTSD and/or physical injury. Two day programs include onsite accommodation, catering, tuition and work shirts. The team will take you through all aspects of horsemanship and mustering. After-hours activities include leatherwork and enjoying some quiet time around the camp fire. | Current and former serving veterans and their families |
| Mates4Mates Skills for Recovery Programs | https://mates4mates.org/get-help/our-services/skills-for-recovery-programs | These free programs based out of Queensland are designed to give veterans the right skills and strategies to manage long-term wellbeing. Programs range from their one-day wellness program, online learning more drink less, online sleep program, healthy relationships, persistent pain, New Year healthier you, heart health, falls prevention, clinical Tai Chi and more. | Current and former serving veterans |
| Invictus and Warrior Games | https://invictusaustralia.org/asp-selection-categorisation-pathways/ | These games harness the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for those who serve their country. | Current and former serving veterans of the regular or reserve ADF who have become wounded, injured or ill during or as a direct consequence of their service. |
| Defence Community Dogs | https://dcdogs.com.au/ | This charity provides support dogs to veterans to support their mental health. Having an assistance dog has been reported to held improve veterans sleep patterns, reduce episodes of stress and anxiety, reduce reliance on medication, increase independence and foster an increased ability to reconnect with family and friends. | Former serving veterans who are experiencing PTSD, anxiety or depression. |
| SMART Program | https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/family-programs-services/support-for-families/smart-resilience-programs | The SMART Program series is designed to help Defence families identify and build on their strengths, learn coping techniques, and becomes more resilient, positive and self-reliant. The SMART Programs – KidSMART and FamilySMART – are delivered by local Defence Social Workers in small group sessions. The Programs target challenging aspects of Defence life, such as deployment, relocation, absence from home and reunion. Practical tips and techniques are shared, including grounding techniques, progressive muscle relaxation, changing self-talk, problem solving, and expressing emotions. | Current and former serving veterans and their families |
| Reserve Assistance Program | https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/wellbeing/support-services/reservists | The program provides free and confidential access to expert support from qualified psychologists and social workers via: face-to-face sessions, phone, email, online counselling. This includes assistance with a range of issues including personal issues (grief, relationships, etc.) work-related challenges (performance, conflict, communication, etc.), life transitions (retirement, balancing work/family) and broader mental health concerns (eg depression, anxiety, stress, addictions). Serving Reservists and their families can receive 4 free counselling sessions (an additional 4 sessions may be granted to resolve ongoing issues). | Current Serving Reservists and their immediate family |
| Horse Aid | https://horseaid.org.au/ | Horse Aid is a free healing horsemanship program based in NSW. Horse Aid offers one-day and five-day residential programs for veterans aimed at trauma recovery and social connection. | Current and former serving veterans who suffer from anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress injuries. |
| Veteran Wellbeing Voucher Program | https://veterans.tas.gov.au/wellbeing-vouchers | This Tasmanian Government sponsored program provides veterans with two vouchers valued at $100 each ($200 in total) per financial year to put towards the cost of registration or membership fees at participating gyms, community and sporting clubs. | Former serving veterans who reside in Tasmania. |
| Open Arms | https://www.openarms.gov.au/ | Open Arms offers a range of free counselling services and group programs to assist veterans to live their best life. The programs include: Sleeping Better, Beating the Blues, Doing Anger Differently, Understanding Anxiety, Recovery from Trauma, Relaxation and Stress Management, Managing Pain, Building Better Relationships, Stepping Out, and Residential Lifestyle Management. | Current and former serving veterans and their families. |
| Waves of Wellness Surf Therapy | https://www.foundationwow.org/surf-therapy-program | The Waves of Wellness Surfing Experience (WOWSE) is a free 8-week learn-to-surf program for veterans The WOWSE ‘veterans programs’, which are funded by the the RSL, facilitate functional recovery while promoting social inclusion, engagement, and enhanced quality of life. | Current and former serving veterans in QLD, NSW, VIC and WA who are experiencing mental health challenges. |
| The Veterans Heart Health Program | https://www.veteranshearthealth.com.au/ | This 12 month DVA program is designed to improve veterans’ fitness and lifestyle choices to support heart health. The individual program includes fortnightly personal health coaching sessions, nutritionist support, personalised exercise resources which may include access to gyms/pools or a small piece of exercise equipment, and educational material. The group program also includes twice weekly group fitness classes. | Veterans who have deployed on operational or peacekeeping service |
| DVA White Card – Mental Health Services | https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/health-services/mental-health-care/non-liability-health-care-mental-health-veterans | By applying for a DVA White Card you can access free mental health treatments with civilian mental health professionals. | This is available to current and former serving veterans who have completed: • At least 1 day of continuous full-time service with the ADF OR • Reservists who have completed disaster relief, border protection service, or were involved in a serious service-related training accident. |
| Frontline Yoga | https://frontlineyoga.com.au/ | Frontline yoga provides free yoga classes in the ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, and online via Zoom. Classes are suitable for all anges and abilities including beginners and those experiencing chronic stress, depression, anxiety or PTSD. Classes also provide the opportunity to connect with others. | Current and former serving veterans (you can bring a friend as long as they provide a donation). |
| RSL Active | https://www.rslaustralia.org/rsl-active | RSL Active provides a range of activities for veterans across Australia and virtually to provide opportunities to connect and build friendships. The program’s activities range from golf, yoga, Strava fitness groups, art classes, trivia, go karting, sailing, morning teas, mindfulness sessions and more. The groups are available in NSW, VIC, QLD, WA as well as online activities. | Current and former serving veterans |
| Veterans’ Health Checks | https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/veterans-health-check | Veterans’ health checks are a free service provided by DVA. It consists of an annual medical check by a GP of your choice for the first 5 years after transition for those who have separated after 01 Jul 19, or a once off health check appointment if you have separated at any time before 01 Jul 19. | Any former serving permanent member or a reservist who has served more than one day continuous full time service. |
| Wellbeing and Support Program (WASP) | https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/work-and-social-life-programs/wellbeing-and-support-program-wasp | WASP is a free DVA program aimed at helping veterans adjust to life after service. The program includes providing you with a DVA case manager and a community case worker to support you and your family. It includes helping you access health care, connect with local services, and learn about DVA support services and how you can apply for them. Your support team will work together to help you develop wellbeing goals and work towards them. The program can last up to 12 months to set you up for success post service. | Former serving veterans and those in the process of transitioning out of service. |
| ADF Arts for Recovery, Resilience, Teamwork and Skills (ARRTS) Program | https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/wellbeing/programs/adf-arrts | ARRTS is a 4-week arts based residential program . The program offers 3 creative streams: Music and Rhythm, Visual Arts, and Creative Writing, all of which can lead to improved self-esteem, initiative and the acquisition of new skills. Participants have reported significantly improved wellbeing, including increased self confidence and enhanced ability to ‘move on’ with their lives as well as enhanced communication ability. | Current serving veterans (permanent and reservists) and those who have separated from the ADF in the last 3 years. |
| Mental Health Literacy and Suicide Prevention Training Program | https://www.dva.gov.au/providers/provider-news/dva-tender-open-mental-health-literacy-and-suicide-prevention-training-veterans | This DVA funded program consists of free mental health first aid courses and suicide prevention courses delivered in face-to-face and online learning environments. The program is focused on enabling veterans and their broader community to support other veterans. | Current and former serving veterans, their friends, families, colleagues and employers, in addition to health professionals who support veterans. |
Financial, Housing and Legal Services
| Name | Website or Phone Number | Description | Who is eligible to access this service |
| Bravery Trust | https://braverytrust.org.au/ | Bravery Trust provides free and independent financial education, counselling and aid to veterans in need. The ‘Financial Fitness’ program helps veterans be financially fit and avoid hardship through education about money and financial products. Their financial counselling services help veterans understand which debts are priorities, understand other factors affecting their financial situation, and help them develop a plan to improve their financial position. | Current and former serving veterans who have experienced an illness or injury as a result of service, and who are facing financial hardship. |
| NSW Rent Choice Veterans | https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/housing/factsheets/rent-choice-veterans | This program helps homeless veterans: • find an affordable rental property • get a lease (or stay in their current accommodation) • pay the rent for up to 3 years and • gain skills and work opportunities to support financial independence. | Former serving permanent veterans in NSW who are homeless |
| ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre | https://adfconsumer.gov.au/ | This organisation’s aim is to help ADF members and their families to achieve greater financial security. It includes a range of tools including budget calculators, checklists, workbooks, employment package estimators (for those planning on separating from the ADF), a SERCAT change financial estimator, financial information relating to deployments and more. | Current and former serving veterans. |
| Legal Aid NSW Veterans’ Advocacy Service | https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/my-problem-is-about/my-right-as-a/veteran/veterans-advocacy-service | The service provides free and independent advice about your rights and entitlements under the veterans’ entitlements legislation as well as providing advice on the merits of lodging claims and appeals, and your chances of success. VAS can also provide assistance in claims in relation to invalidity pensions with the CSC and applications to the Commonwealth Ombudsman. | Current and former serving veterans and their dependents in NSW |
| Keeping Watch | https://www.keepingwatch.org.au/ | Keeping Watch is a charitable fund which provides grants on a case-by-case basis to support members in financial crisis or hardship. | Current serving permanent Navy members (including reservists who are SERVOP C). |
| Carry On | https://www.carryon.org.au/ | Carry On supports Victorian veterans in crisis by providing financial support to help pay for essentials (bills, household repairs, furniture, medical/rehab/travel expenses, funeral costs, appliances and electrical equipment), crisis accomodation, and subsidised housing. | Current and former serving veterans |
Employment and Mentoring Services
| Name | Website or Phone Number | Description | Who is eligible to access this service |
| DVA Veteran Support Offices | https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/transitioning-civilian-life/veteran-support-office | VSOs are located on ADF bases throughout Australia to help serving veterans who are transitioning. VSOs tell you about the support DVA offers, help you apply for benefits and services, offer advice about how DVA support can assist you during your transition into civilian life, teach you to use MyService and other online services. These one-on-one appointments are tailored to your needs to help you transition smoothly into civilian life. | Current serving veterans in the process of transition |
| Soldier On – Employment Services | https://soldieron.org.au/supporting-you/employment/ | Soldier On offers services to support veterans on their journey in obtaining meaningful civilian employment. Free services offered include support identifying pathways to employment; translating military skills for the civilian workforce; writing a resume, setting career goals and getting you job-ready; practical job-seeking help, including interview practice and feedback, and more. Soldier On also offers career networking events introducing veterans to companies who are interested in hiring veterans. | Current veterans in the process of transition and former serving veterans |
| Transition Employment Portal (TEP) | https://www.tep.org.au/ | TEP is a veterans’ employment initiative by Working Spirit and RSLWA. TEP is a job matching platform designed specifically for companies/ businesses to connect directly with military veterans. The TEP allows veterans to create a profile and upload their resume, which can be matched with job opportunities by employers who are interested in hiring veterans. | Current veterans in the process of transition and former serving veterans. |
| Victorian Government Veteran Mentor Program | https://www.vic.gov.au/opportunities-for-veterans-victorian-public-sector | This program is focused on veterans in Victoria who are seeking employment in the public sector. Guidance will be provided by veterans already working in the public sector on the types of employment opportunities available, advice on how to apply for roles, and how to translate your ADF experience | Current veterans in the process of transition and former serving veterans. |
| VetPaths | https://www.dva.gov.au/about/careers/continuing-serve-vetpaths-support-pathway-veterans-new-australian-public-service-aps | VetPaths is a supported employment pathway for veterans to begin an APS career in either Defence or DVA. The 12-month program is offers formal learning and development, a mentor and buddy program, an opportunity to build a peer network, and family inclusion activities. | Former permanent serving veterans who have transitioned within the last 18 months. |
| MindRight and StoryRight | https://veteranssa.sa.gov.au/programs-events/mindright-and-storyright-programs/ | These one-day workshops are aimed at helping you succeed personally and professionally. The MindRight workshop is focused on setting expectations and goals, understanding your identity outside of uniform, and clarifying your new sense ofo purpose. The StoryRight workshop is focused on translating your skills and experiences to enable better promotion and employment opportunities within and outside of service. | Current serving veterans and recently transitioned veterans in South Australia. |
| King’s Trust Australia | https://www.kingstrust.org.au/defence-members-and-their-families | The King’s Trust provides veterans with the confidence, skills, and networks to explore, start, and grow a small business. The program includes the ‘Launch Lab’ to explore and start a new business, ‘Business Basics’ own pace online courses, and the ‘Enterprise Accelerator’ program for established business looking to rapidly scale with the help from facilitated sessions, small group mentoring, and networking with leading business owners and experts. | Current and former serving veterans and their families. |
| Western Australian Defence Industry Veterans Employment Scheme (DIVES) | https://www.southmetrotafe.wa.edu.au/defence-industry-veterans-employment-scheme | DIVES offers up to 80 scholarships of $5000 per year for eligible veterans to help cover the costs of vocational education and university studies relevant to Defence industry careers including tuition and other compulsory fees, textbooks and equipment, and access to career planning support. | Former permanent serving veterans, ADF reservists, and current serving veterans who are about to transition within 6 months. |
Grants, Discounts and Other Services
| Name | Website or Phone Number | Description | Who is eligible for this service |
| ACT Government Discounts | https://www.act.gov.au/money-and-tax/cost-of-living-support/key-concessions-to-help-with-the-cost-of-living | ACT veterans can receive a range of entitlements provided by the ACT Government including rebates on electricity, water and rates; discounts on public transport; and 100% off their drivers licence. | DVA Gold Card holders in the ACT |
| Veterans Card – Victoria | https://www.service.vic.gov.au/services/veterans-card-victoria | This card (different to the DVA white/orange/gold cards) enables you to access a range of discounts including $100 off the registration of 1 vehicle, free trailer and caravan registration, fishing license exemption, free boating (marine) licenses, and free public transport on ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day. | Current and former serving Victorian veterans |
| DVA Energy Supplement | https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/financial-support/income-support/supplements/energy-supplement | This supplement provides ongoing financial assistance to certain DVA clients to assist with energy costs. | Those on a service pension, age pension paid by DVA, MRCA special rate disability pension, and MRCA permanent incapacity payment (10 – 100%). You may also be eligible if you hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) or have reached qualifying age (60 yrs) and hold a Veteran Gold Card. |
| The American Australian Association Veterans’s Fund | https://americanaustralian.org/scholarships/veterans-fund/ | This fund for is an academic scholarship to study in the United States of America. The scholarship of up to US $40, 000 is available for either undergraduate or post graduate study at an accredited educational institution. Annual application windows for the scholarship are open between 01 January and 31 March. | Former serving Australian veterans who have discharged after 9/11 |
| Australia Post MyPost Concession Card | https://auspost.com.au/receiving/mypost/concession-account | The MyPost Concession card enables veterans to get concession stamps (60c a stamp instead of $1.50), free document certification (normally $2.50 per page), and reduced mail redirection/mail hold costs. To register for the MyPost Card, go to Australia Post with your DVA White Card and photo ID eg drivers licence. | Veterans who hold a DVA White Card. |
| Uleybury Native Wildlife Sanctuary | https://www.kangaroorescue.com.au/ | Partnering with Veterans SA, Uleybury Native Wildlife Sanctuary offers free access to the sanctuary. The sanctuary offer daytime and sunset tours and can cater to those that need to take it a little slower. To make a booking or inquiry, reach out to the team via their website. | Current and former serving veterans and their families. |
| Australian Veterans’ Child Assistance Trust (AVCAT) | https://avcat.org.au/ | AVCAT provides scholarships each year for tertiary education for children and grandchildren of veterans ($4000 – $6000 per year for up to 3 years). Applications generally open around August each year. | Former serving veterans who have completed operational service OR 3 years of continuous full time service. |
| APOD Card | https://apod.com.au/defence-discounts/ | The APOD card and app provides veterans with discounts for a range of goods and services. This includes restaurants, activities, gift cards and shops. | Current and former serving veterans who have a DVA white, orange or gold card. |
| Servulink | https://servulink.com.au/ | Servulink provides a one-stop-shop information hub for veterans. Their digital information hub allows you to enter details specific to you such as your location, and then filter the services that you need to access eg veterans’ accommodation, financial support, education and training resources, veterans’ physical and mental health support, and more. This hub also allows you to filter the search to online services so it doesn’t matter if you are in Leigh Creek, Lismore, Launceston or Lord Howe Island, there are veterans services accessible to you. | Current and former serving veterans |
A list of various Ex-Service Organisations/Associations/Federations that provide community, networking and support can be found here.