The NSW Nationals in the federal government will provide $5 million for a new Veteran Wellbeing Centre in the Hunter region, to better support local veterans, Defence personnel and their families.
Veteran Wellbeing Centres, established in partnership with ex-service organisations, local health services or community organisations, help better connect veterans to the extensive support and advocacy already available, with a strong focus on health and wellbeing.
Nationals Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said supporting the Defence and Veteran community is a priority for the Liberal-National Government.
“Our service men and women, and their families, have given so much for our nation and it is our duty to provide them with all the support we can,” Mr Gee said.
“We have already delivered six Veteran Wellbeing Centres around the country, with more on the way in South-East Queensland, Tasmania, the Hawkesbury and Mackay.
“I have visited a number of the existing centres and seen first-hand the positive effects they have on those who use them.
“They are part of our national approach to delivering integrated support services to veterans and their families by working with local organisations and the local defence and veteran community.”
Nationals Candidate for Hunter James Thomson said that veterans’ ongoing care and needs should always be met.
“The sacrifices veterans have made for the defence and security of our country is incredible,” Mr Thomson said. “There is no greater sacrifice than putting your own life on the line for your friends, family and nation. We need to make sure we look after those who have looked after us.”
The centre will be available to all current and former serving Australian Defence Force members, including reservists, and their families.
There will be a process in coming months to decide who will run the centre, the exact location and the preferred operating model.
Only the NSW Nationals in the federal government can continue to deliver a better future for NSW and this is part of our plan to build a strong economy and a stronger future
