Right care at the right time
Defence welcomed the launch of the Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency on July 1.
A recommendation of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, the agency will make it easier for veterans and families of veterans to access the support they need across government and community services.
It will serve as a central point of access through a dedicated website, a national wellbeing service directory and a helpline.
Chief of Personnel Lt-Gen Natasha Fox said the agency supported Defence’s commitment to the wellbeing of its people and their families throughout their service and beyond.
“Defence is working with DVA to provide support for our people and their families to serve well, live well and age well, throughout their service, and beyond their service,” Lt-Gen Fox said.
“The agency will make it easier to access the right care and services at the right time, ensuring veterans and families of veterans are better connected to the support they need to maintain their wellbeing. ”
Defence, through the Joint Transition Authority, supports all members of the ADF and their families to prepare for and complete transfer or separation from the ADF.
The agency will provide members access to wellbeing support and services to support their transition to civilian life and complement existing support provided by Defence and DVA.
'Defence remains responsible for preparing our people to leave the ADF, and we are working closely with the agency to ensure there is continuity of care as our people transition to life beyond service.'
It will facilitate the Transition for Meaningful Engagement and Personalised Career and Employment Program.
Lt-Gen Fox said a strong partnership between Defence, DVA and the agency was critical to delivering better outcomes.
“Defence remains responsible for preparing our people to leave the ADF, and we are working closely with the agency to ensure there is continuity of care as our people transition to life beyond service,” she said.
For current serving ADF personnel and their families, Defence’s dedicated support branch – Defence Member and Family Support – remains the first point of contact through their helpline. Defence’s Joint Transition Authority will also continue to provide guidance to separating personnel.
Contact the Defence Member and Family Helpline at 1800 624 608 and the Joint Transition Support at www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/military-life-cycle/transition/transition-centre-contacts
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