Group programs

What are VVCS group programs?

VVCS group programs aim to improve the quality of life of veterans and their families and complement counselling and other services that promote recovery through prevention, early intervention, and treatment.

All group programs are provided at no cost to eligible participants.

VVCS Group programs can:

Help improve your physical health – Try Heart Health
Develop your quality of life – Try Residential Lifestyle
Help with transition from the ADF – Try Stepping Out
Help with emotional regulation – Try Doing Anger Differently, Beating the Blues or Mastering Anxiety
Help you get a better nights sleep – Try Sleeping Better
Be in charge of your alcohol intake – Try Changing the Mix
Improve your relationships – Try Building Better Relationships
Help you take care of your mates – Try Operation Life
Help F-111 deseal-reseal workers and their partners develop their quality of life – Try F-111 Residential Lifestyle Program

VVCS offers programs specifically for partners.

Program structure and availability

The content and duration of group programs may vary and be delivered in different formats (1/2 day, 1-day, 2-days or 2-3 hour sessions over a period of weeks). Short programs generally have larger numbers and cover information and awareness about the topic, whereas, longer programs have smaller numbers and give participants the opportunity to learn and practice new skills with the support of other group members.

Every effort is made to ensure advertised groups are run, however, a minimum number of participants are needed to make the group viable. We encourage you to let other veterans, peacekeepers and their families know about VVCS programs.

How do I register for a program?

To register by phone

Contact VVCS by calling 1800 011 046.

What dates are programs available?

You can view available program dates by State/Territory:

New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory
Northern Territory
Queensland – North
Queensland – Southern
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia

About the Programs

Groups are an important part of VVCS services. Veterans and veterans families who have attended VVCS programs tell us that being part of a group helps them realise that their experiences are often shared by others. Participants say they have learnt valuable skills which have assisted with the management of their symptoms and that sometimes groups can be a good way into counselling to continue the process one:one. People may also attend groups at the same time as counselling to practice the skills in a group environment of likeminded people. Another important benefit of group interventions is the element of social connection. Participants meet to learn about and discuss important health issues in a supportive and encouraging environment. Many new connections are made in groups with participants often maintaining contact after groups such as establishing self help or social groups themselves.

Doing Anger Differently

If you have concerns about your anger and the impact this is having on those close to you then this program may be for you.

The program will help you to recognise and manage your angry feelings and prevent aggressive behaviour. You will learn strategies to help you take responsibility for your anger and act in more appropriate ways.

Program structure

The full program consists of 11 x 2hr weekly sessions.

For greater access to the program, a two day version of the program is also available.

Mastering Anxiety

If you would like to better understand the nature of anxiety and factors that maintain it, then this program may be for you.

This program will explore various relaxation methods and helps to develop more effective coping strategies.