Funding connection, purpose and community with Veteran Wellbeing Grants
Almost $3 million in funding has been awarded to 46 community-led initiatives through the 2024–25 Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program, supporting a holistic approach to veteran and family wellbeing that includes connection, purpose and community.
From metropolitan centres to regional towns, the funded projects reflect the diverse needs of the veteran community. Among them are the Resilience Shield Comedy Project in Western Australia, which blends humour and resilience training, and Trojan’s Trek Foundation (Queensland), which is offering wilderness-based peer support. Meanwhile, Our Mate-Ship (NSW) is inviting veterans to hands-on boat restoration workshops and the Ringwood RSL (Victoria) is running eGaming sessions to build peer networks and mental wellbeing.
A powerful example of the program’s impact is Eyes Front, a past recipient that used its 2022–23 grant to expand the Celebration of Service initiative. This project honours the lived experiences of veterans and first responders through storytelling, reflection, and peer connection.
Delivered through online and in-person events, a dedicated website and tailored course materials, Celebration of Service creates a safe space for veterans to explore and share their stories. Participants are guided through reflective exercises that help them unpack significant moments from their service, identify personal growth, and express their experiences through journaling or storytelling.
The early sessions helped me explore the pivotal moments and lessons from my time in service. Putting these memories into words was cathartic. Sharing them with the group was nerve-wracking, but the supportive environment helped me realise I wasn’t alone.
- Celebration of Service participant
The initiative has helped veterans reconnect with their identity, build confidence and find healing through shared experiences. It also raises public awareness of the challenges faced by veterans, fostering greater understanding and compassion in the broader community.
Eyes Front has created a model of veteran care that combines compassion, peer support, and genuine celebration. DVA is proud to have supported this work, which continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans and their families.
The Veteran Wellbeing Grants Program provides funding to eligible organisations for projects that enhance health and social wellbeing, build community capacity, and raise awareness of issues faced by veterans. Applications for the next round of Veteran Wellbeing Grants will open later this year. For information visit www.dva.gov.au/grants.