Census 2021 data has shown that one in 20 (5.3 per cent) Australian households reported at least one person who had served, or was serving, in the ADF.
RSL NSW President Ray James said the Census data showed that everyone knew a veteran or was connected to someone who had served in some form or another – a grandparent, partner, parent, sibling or friend.
“It’s therefore all of our responsibility to make sure they are okay, know that they have support and know where they can seek that support. Whether that’s a coffee with friends, or it’s employment or wellbeing support,” he said.
“RSL NSW is home to 26,000 members and more than 320 sub-Branches across NSW, all of whom stand ready to provide mateship, a ready-made community, connection and links to support services for veterans and their families.”
Over the past 12 months alone, RSL NSW membership increased for the first time in 40 years, up by 11 per cent, highlighting the importance of the RSL, and the real need for veterans to be able to access local support and services.
Support through transition is an important way of ensuring ADF veterans’ professional value and expertise is realised in civilian life.
Adrian Sutter, RSL NSW member and founder of veteran-led charity Swiss8, said: “Transitioning out of Defence is a real challenge for many veterans, no matter how rewarding a career they have had.
“Some have never been civilians as adults and need to learn even the basics – getting a Medicare card and renting a house.
“RSL NSW works hard to offer its members opportunities to rebuild community and identity via initiatives such as family-friendly and accessible sports and recreation, social activities and more.”
RSL NSW, with its charity partner RSL LifeCare Veteran Services, provides a range of support for veterans and their families including mateship and camaraderie, DVA claim support, employment services, and housing and homelessness support, as well as a myriad other programs to assist veterans as they transitions into new careers and settle into civilian life.
For a full list of RSL NSW sub-Branches and ANZAC Day commemorative services, visit: rslnsw.org.au to discover how you can honour our veterans.
