Veteran wellbeing agency to open next year
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh has announced a new agency focused on veteran and family wellbeing will be established from 1 July 2026.
The functions to be delivered by the new agency were informed by a process of consultation and co-design with veterans, families and service providers between March and May this year. The new agency will provide information on wellbeing services, and support and connections to the community through the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs network, so veterans and families are empowered to lead productive, meaningful lives after service in the ADF.
The agency will focus effort on supporting transitioning veterans who face a higher risk of suicide or other challenges. These veterans and their families will be supported to navigate and be connected to services and supports, including those available in the community through the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs.
The agency will evolve to prepare and support veterans and families before, during and after transition by equipping them with knowledge and skills to proactively manage their wellbeing. Once fully established, it will also play a role influencing system-wide changes to improve wellbeing service and support.
To support the ongoing delivery of services, the agency will scale operations over its initial phases of establishment. It will learn as it delivers support with a program of evaluation established to optimise the delivery of programs. This will include evolving processes and identifying quality local and national services, ultimately resulting in a better experience for veterans and families.
The agency’s services will develop services to be available online, via a helpline, and through face-to-face contact in local and regional areas such as through Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs. It will become a service where members of the veteran community can find or be guided to the resources that can assist their wellbeing needs.
For updates on the wellbeing agency, as well as a peak body for ex-service organisations, please visit the DVA website.