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).

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans and their families 

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.

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current serving veterans and their families 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans in the Adelaide area 

https://www.militaryartprogram.com.au/ 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans and their families 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans

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.  

Who is eligible to access this service

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. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Former serving veterans who are experiencing PTSD, anxiety or depression. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans and their families 

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). 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current Serving Reservists and their immediate family 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans who suffer from anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress injuries. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Former serving veterans who reside in Tasmania. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans and their families. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans in QLD, NSW, VIC and WA who are experiencing mental health challenges. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Veterans who have deployed on operational or peacekeeping service 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

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. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Any former serving permanent member or a reservist who has served more than one day continuous full time service. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Former serving veterans and those in the process of transitioning out of service. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current serving veterans (permanent and reservists) and those who have separated from the ADF in the last 3 years. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service

Current and former serving veterans, their friends, families, colleagues and employers, in addition to health professionals who support veterans. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans who have experienced an illness or injury as a result of service, and who are facing financial hardship. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Former serving permanent veterans in NSW who are homeless 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans and their dependents in NSW 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current serving permanent Navy members (including reservists who are SERVOP C). 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current serving veterans in the process of transition 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current veterans in the process of transition and former serving veterans 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current veterans in the process of transition and former serving veterans. 

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 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current veterans in the process of transition and former serving veterans. 

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.

Who is eligible to access this service  

Former permanent serving veterans who have transitioned within the last 18 months. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service  

Current serving veterans and recently transitioned veterans in South 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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans and their families. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Former permanent serving veterans, ADF reservists, and current serving veterans who are about to transition within 6 months. 

https://www.act.gov.au/money-and-tax/cost-of-living-support/key-concessions-to-help-with-the-cost-of-living 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving Victorian veterans 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

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. 

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.  

Who is eligible to access this service 

Former serving Australian veterans who have discharged after 9/11 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Veterans who hold a DVA White Card. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans and their families. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Former serving veterans who have completed operational service OR 3 years of continuous full time service. 

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. 

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans who have a DVA white, orange or gold card. 

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.

Who is eligible to access this service 

Current and former serving veterans