Assistance animals can support veterans in everyday life. They can help with daily tasks, routine, confidence and feeling safe.  

They are specially trained to help a person with injury, illness or disability.   

Pets are different from assistance animals.  

What assistance animals do  

An assistance animal is trained to help a person with disability or other health needs. The help it gives depends on the person’s needs and the animal’s training.  

Support can include:  

• Moving around and doing physical tasks  
• Helping with mental health conditions such as PTSD  
• Feeling safer in public or new places  
• Reducing stress and helping someone feel calm  
• Building routine and confidence in daily life  

Not all assistance animals do the same job. Not every animal is legally recognised as an assistance animal in Australia.  

Mental health support  

Some veterans may be able to get a psychiatric assistance dog. These dogs are trained to help people living with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder.  

These dogs can help by:  

• Interrupting distressing thoughts or actions  
• Help their handler feel more grounded in stressful moments  
• Help with sleep and daily routine  
• Build confidence to get out and be part of the community   

There are rules about who can get an assistance animal, how they are assessed, and how the animal is trained. An assistance animal may not be right or available for everyone.  

Things to think about   

Getting an assistance animal is a big decision. Before you apply or commit, think about:  

• Whether an assistance animal is right for you  
• What training, care and responsibility are involved  
• The difference between assistance animals, therapy animals and pets  
• Your rights and responsibilities in public places and housing  

 The support you can get may depend on your situation, where you live, and the programs available to you.  

How to get support  

If you want to learn more about assistance animals or other wellbeing support, you can:  

• Look at trusted wellbeing and support services  
• Talk to your healthcare provider about whether this is right for you and if you may be eligible  
• Contact support services for help with mental health, disability or family wellbeing  

You do not have to figure this out on your own. Help is available.  

Welcome to the Hub

Lives Lived Well (LLW) is a non-government treatment provider with origins in drug and alcohol support, stretching back to a volunteer group in the 1970s.  It has retained its primary focus on providing support for drug and alcohol misuse and addiction and mental health challenges since that time.  It has offices in multiple locations throughout New South Wales and Queensland and South Australia.  

Co-funded with DVA, Lives Lived Well has established the Adelaide Veterans’ and Families’ Wellbeing Hub located in Elizabeth Vale, close to the RAAF Base Edinburgh. 

The Hub is designed as a welcoming, family‑friendly space, that enables veterans and families of veterans to access integrated and flexible support without referral, including mental health and wellbeing assistance, counselling, advocacy, case management, and help with transition, housing, and employment. Delivered by a skilled team with lived or learned experience of veteran life, the Hub also offers social activities, peer connection opportunities, and group programs that foster belonging, resilience, and long‑term wellbeing within the veteran community

What’s available to you on-site:

• Clinical Case Management
• Open Arms – Peer workers and group therapy sessions
• Veterans Gaming Association/Invictus
• Human Quotient/Veterans SA – Careers and Conversations - groups sessions for military spouses
• Level 3 Advocacy (1-2 days per week)
• Fortnightly sessions hosted by Operation Unity with guest speakers, linkages and art-based therapeutic opportunities to strengthen social connection and wellbeing.
• DVA Veteran Support Officer (one day per week)
• Daily social connection activities and monthly BBQs

We can help connect you to:

• The Fallen Forge provides a neutral outreach environment that supports therapeutic engagement for clients who prefer non-clinic settings.
• Facilitated access to physical and mental health services, wellbeing support, advocacy, employment, education, housing services and financial advice.

How to find us

Address: The Playford Health Hub, Level 3 44-46 John Rice Avenue, Elizbeth Vale SA 5112

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm

Phone: 0418 173 750

Website:  Adelaide Veterans' and Families' Wellbeing Hub - Lives Lived Well

Email: adelaide.veterans@liveslivedwell.org.au

The Hub is wheelchair accessible.
 

The Northern Adelaide Veterans’ and Families’ Wellbeing Hub’s social connection and community programs are advertised through the events and activities page: Adelaide Veterans' and Families' Wellbeing Hub - Lives Lived Well

Welcome to the Hub

Lives Lived Well (LLW) is a non-government treatment provider with origins in drug and alcohol support, stretching back to a volunteer group in the 1970s.  It has retained its primary focus on providing support for drug and alcohol misuse and addiction and mental health challenges since that time.  It has offices in multiple locations throughout New South Wales and Queensland and South Australia.  

Co-funded with DVA, Lives Lived Well has established the Caboolture Veterans’ and Families’ Wellbeing Hub.

The Hub is designed as a welcoming, family‑friendly space, that enables veterans and families of veterans to access integrated and flexible support without referral, including mental health and wellbeing assistance, counselling, advocacy, case management, and help with transition, housing, and employment. Delivered by a skilled team with lived or learned experience of veteran life, the Hub also offers social activities, peer connection opportunities, and group programs that foster belonging, resilience, and long‑term wellbeing within the veteran community

What’s available to you on-site:

• Clinical Case Management services provided by a skilled team 
• Social connection with fellow veterans and families of veterans
• Integrated and flexible health and wellbeing support - available in-person or by phone
• Linkage to drug and alcohol recovery services
• DVA Chaplaincy services
• DVA Veteran Support Officer

We can help connect you to:

• AVIVE Mental Health Hospital 
• Hader Clinic
• Centrelink
• Department of Housing
• Caboolture Court House
• Local Aged Care Homes
• Keith Payne Unit, Greenslopes Hospital
• Caboolture Hospital
• Local Sub-Branches 
• Facilitated access to physical and mental health services, wellbeing support, advocacy, employment, education, housing services and financial advice.

How to find us  

How to find us 

Address: U1/12 King Street, 

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm

Phone: 07 5600 1386

Website:  Caboolture Veterans' and Families' Wellbeing Hub - Lives Lived Well

Email: VWC@liveslivedwell.org.au

The Hub is wheelchair accessible.
 

What is an advocate? 

An advocate is someone who can help you understand and access compensation and wellbeing support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). 

Advocates are trained to assist with the claims process. Many work through ex-service organisations (ESOs), and some are veterans or family members themselves. They are not DVA staff. 

Advocates working through ESOs complete nationally accredited training in military advocacy and follow service standards when providing support. 

 How an advocate can help 

An advocate can help you at different stages of your claim, including: 

• prepare and lodge a claim 
• understand what information and evidence you may need 
• request a review of a decision 
• support or represent you during reviews or appeals 
• connect you with other services and support 

You can choose the level of support that suits your needs. 

 Do I need an advocate? 

You do not have to use an advocate. 

You can lodge and manage your own claim using MyService or choose to get support. 

 Free and paid advocacy 

There are different types of advocacy support available: 

• Many advocates provide free support through ex-service organisations 
• Some services offer advocacy for a fee 

Free advocates working through ESOs are trained through nationally recognised programs and are authorised to provide advocacy support. 

If you are considering a paid service, you can: 

• understand the fees and how they are charged 
• ask what support is included 
• check the provider’s experience and qualifications 

Paying for advocacy does not change how your claim is assessed or the outcome. 

Finding an advocate 

If you would like support, you can: 

• use the Advocacy Register to find services near you 
• contact an ex-service organisation directly 
• connect through a Veteran and Family Hub or community service 

You can contact more than one service to find what works best for you. 

Choosing what’s right for you 

Everyone’s situation is different. It’s okay to: 

• take time to explore your options 
• ask questions before you decide 
• choose the level of support that suits you 

Community housing can be a more affordable and stable housing option for people who find it hard to rent in the private market. For veterans and families of veterans, it can offer more security during times of change, recovery or financial pressure. 

Community housing providers work with individuals and families to offer longer-term housing that can support wellbeing, independence and connection to the community.

What community housing is

Community housing is owned or managed by non-government, not-for-profit organisations. It is different from renting through a private landlord, and it is also different from public housing run directly by a government housing department.

Community housing providers generally aim to:

• Offer affordable, secure housing
• Help tenants keep stable housing
• Connect tenants with local services and community support

Housing may include houses, units, townhouses or apartments in different locations across Australia.

When it might be an option

Community housing may be worth exploring if:

• You are under financial pressure or finding it hard to afford housing
• Private rentals are limited, too expensive or not right for your needs
• You need more stability than short-term housing can offer
• You are leaving Defence or adjusting to changes in your health or work
• You need housing that is linked with support services

It can provide a more stable base while you work on other goals, such as improving your health, finding work, studying or settling into a new stage of life.

What it can offer

Depending on the provider, community housing may offer:

• Rent that is lower than the market rate or based on your income
• Longer-term rental arrangements
• Support to help tenants keep their housing
• Links to local health, wellbeing and social services
• A sense of community and belonging

What is available can vary by provider, program and location. Eligibility rules, waiting times and support services are not the same everywhere.

Who may be eligible

Eligibility depends on your circumstances, your income and the rules in your state or territory. In general, community housing may be available to:

• People on low to moderate incomes
• Individuals or families having trouble finding or keeping affordable housing
• People with health, disability or wellbeing needs
• Older people
• People going through major life changes

Some providers or programs may give priority to people with urgent housing needs or specific support needs. In some places, there may also be veteran-specific housing pathways or services.

How to apply

You can apply through your state or territory housing system, or directly through a community housing provider if that option is available where you live.

You may be asked to:

• Share information about your housing needs and situation
• Provide proof of your income and identity
• Have your housing needs assessed

Waiting times can vary widely depending on demand, your location, your circumstances and the type of housing available.

How to find providers and services

Community housing is managed differently across Australia. To find out what is available in your area, you can:

• Contact your state or territory housing authority
• Search online for "community housing" and your location
• Speak with local housing services or community organisations

You can also ask a support service, advocate or case worker to help you understand your housing options.

What to do next

If community housing sounds like it may be right for you, start by checking the housing information for your state or territory. If you need help urgently, contact a crisis or homelessness service straight away.

• Check the housing application information for your state or territory
• Gather documents such as proof of income and identity
• Contact a provider or housing service if you need help understanding the process
• Seek urgent support straight away if you are homeless or at risk of homelessness

Useful resources

These services can help you learn more about community housing, check your options and find support.

• Australian Community Housing (ACH) provides information about community housing and links to state and territory housing services. It is a national peak body and does not manage applications or waiting lists.
• National Regulatory System for Community Housing (NRSCH) provides tenant information and a register of registered community housing providers in participating jurisdictions.
• Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) provides information and support for veterans and families, including some housing and homelessness support pathways.
• Open Arms provides free and confidential counselling and wellbeing support for veterans and families, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Veteran Housing Australia provides veteran-focused housing information and support, including housing pathways for some veterans and families.
• RSL Australia can help connect veterans and families with support, including homelessness assistance and local services.

Moving to a new community can feel exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. This can be especially true when it happens alongside other changes, such as transitioning from Defence service, starting new work, meeting family needs or managing changes in health.

This checklist is designed to help veterans and families of veterans settle into a new community at their own pace. You do not need to do everything at once. Use what feels helpful and leave the rest.

Getting to know your new area

• Learn about your local area and services
• Find nearby health services, pharmacies and emergency contacts
• Find local shops, transport options and community facilities
• Update your address and contact details where needed

Health and wellbeing

• Find a local GP or health professional
• Find mental health, counselling or wellbeing support if you need it
• Find community health services and support groups
• Make time to rest and adjust during the transition

Children and family

• Enrol children in childcare, school or activities as needed
• Learn about local parenting, family or youth services
• Look for playgrounds, libraries or family-friendly spaces
• Talk with children about the move and how they’re feeling

Work, study and daily life

• Look for local employment, training or study opportunities
• Learn about transport, commuting and daily routines
• Set up essential utilities and services
• Find places where you can enjoy your interests or hobbies

Building connection

• Look for local community groups, clubs or events
• Connect with neighbours, schools or community organisations
• Look for opportunities to volunteer or get involved
• Take small steps to build social connections over time

Support for veterans and families

• Find veteran and family support services in your area
• Learn about community-based services that may support your wellbeing
• Ask for help if you’re not sure where to start

Give yourself time

• Expect it to take time to feel settled — this is normal
• Acknowledge feelings of uncertainty, loss or stress
• Celebrate small milestones as you build familiarity and routine
• Ask for support if things feel hard

Getting support

Settling into a new community takes time. If you need extra support, help is available to connect you with local services, community connections and wellbeing support that suit your needs.

Where to start

If you’re not sure where to begin, start with one or two supports that feel most relevant to you right now. The options below can help you find local services, practical help and veteran and family support.

• Talk to your GP or local health service if you need help with your physical or mental health.
• Contact Open Arms for free mental health and wellbeing support for veterans and families of veterans, including counselling and peer support.
• Contact the Veteran and Family Wellbeing Agency to learn about support that may be available for health, wellbeing, transition, rehabilitation, employment, housing or financial needs.
• Check your local council, library or neighbourhood centre for community information, groups, activities and local services.
• Ask your child’s school, childcare service or local family service about supports for children, young people and parents.
• If money is tight, look into financial counselling, emergency relief or community support services in your area.
• If you need urgent support, it may help to contact a crisis support service.

Urgent support

If things feel too hard or unsafe right now, you do not have to manage this on your own. It may help to contact a crisis support service, your local health service or emergency services if you need immediate help.

Printable checklists

These printable checklists are designed to support different parts of settling into a new community. You can use them in the way that works best for you and focus on the steps that feel most helpful right now.

Practical settling-in checklist

Use this checklist to keep track of practical steps that may help you settle into a new community. You can work through it at your own pace and focus on what feels most relevant to you right now.

You do not need to do everything at once. Small steps can make a difference, and support is available if you need it.

Family settling-in checklist

Use this checklist to keep track of practical steps that may help children, young people and caregivers settle into a new community. You can work through it at your own pace and focus on what feels most relevant to your family right now.

Every family adjusts differently. It is okay to take things one step at a time and reach out for support when you need it.

Wellbeing check-in checklist

Use this checklist as a gentle way to check in with your wellbeing during times of change. You can come back to it at your own pace and focus on what feels most relevant to you right now.

There is no right way to adjust, and some days may feel easier than others. If you need support, reaching out can be a helpful next step.

This resource was informed by Australian trauma-informed practice principles and publicly available information about veteran, family, health, wellbeing and community support services.

Studying in Australia can open new doors after service. It can help you build confidence, learn new skills and explore a new career path. 

Study can also create structure, support wellbeing and help you move toward new work or personal goals. 

Get started 

Use this checklist to help you get started. 

• Think about your goals, interests and the kind of work or study you want to move into.
• Check whether your Defence skills and experience can be recognised through credit transfer or prior learning. The Australian Defence College can offer advice through their engagement with universities and TAFE’s around RPL and credit pathways
• Check what support you may be eligible for, such as Career Transition Training, study loans or other training supports.
• Compare courses, providers, costs, study modes and entry requirements.
• Ask providers what support they offer for veterans and students with health, disability or accessibility needs.
• Make a simple plan for applications, documents, important dates and any financial support you may need.

Compare providers before you apply 

Use this checklist when comparing providers. 

• Is this course a good fit for my goals, experience and preferred study style? 
• What are the entry requirements, and are there alternative entry pathways? 
• Can my Defence training, military experience or previous study count toward credit or recognition of prior learning? 
• What study options are available, such as online, part-time, intensive or blended learning? 
• What support do you offer for veterans and students with disability, health or accessibility needs? 
• What are the full costs, and are there any subsidies, payment plans or fee-free places available? 
• What student support services are available if I need help with study skills, wellbeing, career advice or settling in? 

Gather your documents 

Use this checklist to gather documents before you apply. 

• Proof of identity, such as a driver licence, passport or other photo ID 
• Previous study records, such as transcripts, certificates or statements of attainment 
• Evidence of Defence service, training or experience if you want to ask about credit or recognition of prior learning 
• A resume or summary of your work and volunteer experience, if relevant 
• Any application forms or supporting documents needed for scholarships, subsidies or education support programs 
• Medical, disability or accessibility information if you want to ask for adjustments or support 

Balance study with the rest of life 

Use this checklist to make study more manageable. 

• Choose a study load and timetable that fits your current responsibilities, even if that means starting small. 
• Look for flexible options such as online, part-time, evening or blended study, especially if you are managing work, health needs, appointments or other responsibilities. 
• Use a calendar or weekly planner to keep track of classes, work shifts, appointments and assessment dates. 
• Talk with your family, employer or support network early about what help you may need, especially during transition or periods of extra stress. 
• Ask your provider about extensions, accessibility supports, counselling, study skills support or other student services if things become difficult. 
• Build in time for rest, appointments and recovery, especially during busy periods or times of change. 

Ask for support early 

Use this checklist to decide if it is time to ask for extra support. 

• You are feeling overwhelmed, stressed or unsure how to keep up. 
• You are missing classes, falling behind with study, or struggling to meet deadlines. 
• Your health, mental health, disability or accessibility needs are making study harder. 
• Work, health needs, caring responsibilities, or the impacts of transition out of service are affecting your study plans. 
• You are not sure which course, provider or support option is right for you. 
• You need help with applications, fees, technology, study skills or settling in. 

Find support 

Use this checklist to identify where to get support. 

• Check student support services 
  Many providers offer help with study skills, counselling, wellbeing, disability or accessibility supports, and settling into study. 
• Speak with course advisers and admissions teams 
  They can explain entry pathways, recognition of prior learning, flexible study options, and application requirements. 
• Check DVA and veteran support services 
  DVA may be able to help eligible veterans, and eligible children and young people of veterans, through education supports and related programs. 
• Check Defence transition supports 
  If you are leaving the ADF, transition services may help you explore training, career planning and approved education options. These supports are generally most relevant to serving members moving into civilian life. 
• Use health and wellbeing supports 
  If study is affecting your wellbeing, it may help to speak with your GP, counsellor, mental health professional, or another trusted support person. 

Compare study options 

Use this checklist to compare study options. 

• Vocational Education and Training (VET)
  Practical, skills-based courses delivered through TAFE and registered training organisations. Industry based training to meet job roles and licencing if required
• Micro-credentials and short courses
  Targeted learning options that focus on specific skills or knowledge areas. Vocational Micro-credentials are national and are available through TAFEs and ADC – these accredit specified skills against job tasks
• Tertiary education
  University degrees, diplomas and postgraduate study. Vocational, qualifications and micro-credentials can be used as credit not relevant university programs
• Online and flexible learning
  Options that allow you to balance study with work, family responsibilities or health needs.

The right option depends on your goals, experience and current circumstances. 

Use your Defence skills for study credit 

Your military experience may already count toward civilian qualifications or study. 

The Defence Military Skills Recognition program helps current and former ADF members translate Defence training and experience into recognised civilian qualifications or study credit. 

Find out more about recognising Defence skills here. 

Use transition support 

If you are transitioning out of the ADF, you may be able to access education, training and career support. 

The Career Transition Training Program helps fund approved education, training and professional development. Eligible members may be able to apply while still serving or for up to 24 months after leaving the ADF. 

Learn more about the Career Transition Training Program here. 

Explore veteran-specific education options 

Some providers offer tailored pathways, direct entry, recognition of prior learning or extra study support for veterans and serving members. 

For example, TAFE Queensland offers support for ex-Defence personnel, including the Defence to Civilian Success Training Program. You can find more details here. 

Some universities also offer veteran-focused entry pathways or support programs. For example, the University of Canberra offers direct entry, credit recognition and tailored support for current and former ADF members. The Veterans’ Employment Program also highlights study and training options. 

Check funding and pathway options 

Use this short list to check for extra funding or pathway options. 

• Veteran-friendly university pathways 
  Some universities offer direct entry, selection rank adjustments, credit recognition or dedicated veteran support programs. These options may give you a more supported pathway into higher education. 
• Government study loans and payments 
  Depending on your course and circumstances, you may be eligible for HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP or a VET Student Loan. You may also qualify for other income or study-related support depending on your situation. 

Useful links 

Use these links to find more information about study, training and transition support. 

Transition and Defence support

• Defence Military Skills Recognition 
  Explains how Defence training and service experience may count toward civilian qualifications or study credit. 
• Career Transition Training and employment assistance 
  Information about transition support, including approved training, education and employment assistance for eligible ADF members leaving service. 
• Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP)
  Financial support to help ADF partners with employment-related costs. Eligible partners in Australia can access up to $1,500 per financial year.

Course search tools

• Your Career 
  National course and provider search tool for VET options across Australia. 
   
• Course Seeker 
  Search and compare VET and tertiary courses from education providers across Australia. 
   
• Study Australia 
  General information about studying in Australia, including education pathways and planning your studies. 

Veteran-specific study options  

• TAFE Queensland – ex-Defence personnel 
  Support for ex-Defence personnel, including pathway guidance and Defence-related training support. 
   
• Veterans’ Employment Program – building your skills 
  Information about study, training and skill-building options for veterans. 

What it's like to feel overwhelmed

Feeling overwhelmed can make it hard to think clearly or focus on one thing at a time. Your thoughts may race, small tasks can feel bigger than they are, and everything may seem urgent.

You may feel restless and move from task to task without finishing anything. Or you may feel stuck and find it hard to start, even when you know what to do next.

Feeling overwhelmed can also affect your body. You might notice tight shoulders, shallow breathing, or a constant sense of pressure. When too much builds up at once, it can be hard to work out what matters most and what can wait.

What can help

The first step does not have to be solving everything at once. It can be as simple as pausing, taking one slow breath, and choosing one small thing to focus on.

Calming techniques

• Slow breathing or box breathing: Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and breathe out for 6 seconds.
• Ground yourself: Name things you can see, hear, feel and touch to help bring your attention back to the present moment.
• Slow your body down: Unclench your jaw and fists, and drop your shoulders. Doing this for 1 to 2 minutes can help reduce tension.

Focus on what you can control

Break tasks into smaller steps and make a simple list. You could sort tasks into categories such as must do, can wait, and not important.

Take a break 

A short walk, rest, or change of scenery may help you feel more settled and able to return to the task.

Reduce the load

You do not need to fix everything at once. It is okay to ask for help or say no to tasks or activities if you need more space to cope.

When to get help

You may need extra support if feeling overwhelmed is making it hard to manage daily life, work, relationships or your wellbeing, or if the feeling is not going away.

You can talk to your GP or contact a support service such as Open Arms, Lifeline or Beyond Blue. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.

• Open Arms: Free and confidential 24/7 mental health and wellbeing support including counselling, care coordination, peer support, group programs and digital health initiatives for veterans and families of veterans on 1800 011 046.  
• Lifeline: 24/7 crisis support on 13 11 14.
• Beyond Blue: 24/7 counselling and mental health support on 1300 224 636.

If you are a woman who has served in the Australian Defence Force, support is available at every stage of life. 

Your experience is unique, and you deserve support that feels safe, respectful and right for you. 

Whether you are leaving Defence, adjusting to civilian life, looking after your health, or wanting to connect with people who understand service, there are trusted services and communities that can help.

Finding the right support for you 

As you read this page, it may help to start small and focus on what you need most right now. There is no single right place to begin. 

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, but it is a strong one. More support is becoming available for women veterans and families, with a growing focus on care that is inclusive, respectful and culturally safe.

If you need immediate support

If you need urgent help, support is available now. In an emergency, call 000.

You can also contact:

• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling: 1800 011 046
• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Safe Zone Support (anonymous, 24/7): 1800 142 072
• 1800RESPECT (domestic, family or sexual violence): 1800 737 732

Mental health and emotional wellbeing support

Looking after your mental and emotional wellbeing is an important part of your overall health. 

You may experience stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, sleep problems or big life changes, especially during or after transition. Support can help whether you are going through a hard time, want to feel stronger, or just need someone to talk to.

Open Arms offers free and confidential counselling for current and former serving members and their families, 24 hours a day. Support includes counselling, family and relationship support, peer support, group programs and practical tools.

If you have served in the Australian Defence Force, you may also be able to access DVA-funded mental health care. A GP can help with a Veteran Health Check, referrals and treatment options.

Physical health care and medical support

Your physical health matters, and you deserve care that understands both your service and your individual needs. 

If you have served in the Australian Defence Force, you may be able to get health care support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

This can include support from a GP, specialist or allied health provider for physical and mental health needs.

A good place to start is your GP. They can do a Veteran Health Check and help connect you with treatment, rehabilitation or specialist care.

Health care support may include:

• Treatment for service-related injuries or long-term health conditions
• Women’s health care across different life stages, including specialised support
• Pain management and rehabilitation programs
• Support for sleep, fatigue and physical recovery

If you are not sure where to begin, your GP or DVA can help you understand your options.

Connect with other women veterans

Connecting with other women veterans can help you feel understood, supported and less alone.

You might connect through peer networks, community groups, Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs or online communities.

You can choose what feels right for you, in your own time.

Women-specific support and community

• Women Veterans Network Australia offers peer connection, social groups and shared support.
• Women Veterans Australia helps women who have served connect with others, access information and feel part of a supportive community.
• Open Arms may also help through counselling, group programs and peer support.
• Veteran and family wellbeing centres, RSL services and local ex-service organisations may help with connection, advocacy, wellbeing, employment and day-to-day needs.
• If family responsibilities, grief or caring roles are part of your experience, organisations such as Legacy may also help.

Help with housing, money and daily life

Wellbeing also includes the practical parts of everyday life. You may be able to get help with housing, money, legal issues, family wellbeing, advocacy and understanding DVA. 

For some women, support may also need to reflect family responsibilities, caring roles, culture or isolation. Through DVA and partner organisations, different kinds of support may be available to help you build stability, safety and longer-term wellbeing.

Transitioning to civilian life

Leaving military service can bring both opportunities and challenges. It is common to need support as you work out what comes next, including work, study, identity and daily routines.

Programs like the Veteran Employment Program and BUSY Group can help with career planning, resume support and training pathways.

You can also explore mentoring, coaching or professional development. Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs can help you find support in one place, including health care, employment help, housing advice and advocacy.

Ongoing support and connection

Staying connected can support your wellbeing over time and help build purpose, stability and belonging.

Support can come from community groups, local veteran centres, wellbeing programs and national services.

You can take your time to find the support that works for you, whether that is practical help, health care, peer connection or community support.

What matters most is knowing support is there when you want it.

Natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, cyclones, severe storms and heatwaves can happen with little warning. Taking a few simple steps now can help you stay safer and feel more prepared. 

This page explains how to prepare, where to get trusted information, and what to do in an emergency. 

4 steps to prepare for an emergency 

If life or property is in immediate danger, call 000. If you use a TTY, call 106. When it is safe, focus on 4 simple steps: understand your local risks, make a plan, pack an emergency kit, and stay informed. 

When to call 000 

Call 000 straight away if someone is seriously injured or unwell, trapped, or in immediate danger from fire or another urgent threat. 

Call 000 straight away if: 

• A fire in your home or nearby 
• A serious injury or sudden illness 
• A gas leak or electrical danger 
• An immediate threat to your safety 

When you call, ask for Police, Fire or Ambulance. 

Understand your local risks 

Different places face different risks. Find out what hazards are most likely where you live, work or study so you can plan ahead. 

Use trusted information from local councils, emergency services and weather warnings so you know what to expect and what action to take. 

Make a household emergency plan 

Keep your plan short, clear and easy to follow. A plan that fits your household can help everyone know what to do if an emergency happens. 

Include: 

• Emergency contacts and important phone numbers 
• Where to meet if you need to leave home 
• Safe ways to leave your area 
• Medicines, health needs and key documents to take 
• What to do for pets or other animals 
• How to stay in touch if phones or internet are down 

Write your plan down, talk it through with your household, and review it from time to time so it stays up to date. 

Pack an emergency kit 

Keep your kit somewhere easy to reach. Checking it now and then, and replacing anything out of date, can give you peace of mind that it will be there when you need it. 

Pack: 

• Drinking water and non-perishable food 
• First aid items and medicines 
• A torch, batteries and a battery-powered radio 
• Phone chargers or a power bank 
• Important documents and some cash 
• Clothes, blankets and hygiene items 
• Supplies for babies, older people, disability needs or pets, if needed 

Follow warnings and act early 

Warnings can change quickly. Following official advice and acting early when you are told to prepare, shelter or leave can help reduce stress and keep you safer. 

Trusted sources include weather warnings, emergency services, local councils and official alert apps. Save or bookmark the sources you use most so they are easy to find in an emergency. 

Check in on others if it is safe 

If it is safe, check in on neighbours, friends or family who may need extra support. Staying connected can make a real difference. 

Share clear, reliable information and follow emergency service directions to help everyone stay safe. 

Even a few simple steps now can make a big difference to your safety, confidence and peace of mind in an emergency. 

Trusted emergency contacts and information 

Use official sources for warnings, planning and recovery information. Keep a short list of trusted contacts and websites so they are easy to find when you need them. 

• Triple Zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies 
• TTY 106 for people who use a teletypewriter 
• National Emergency Management Agency for national preparedness information 
• Bureau of Meteorology for weather forecasts and warnings 
• Disaster Assist for recovery support and disaster help information 
• Australian Red Cross for practical preparedness resources 

State and territory emergency information 

Use your state or territory emergency services for local warnings and practical advice. 

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) 

• ACT Emergency Services Agency 

New South Wales (NSW) 

• NSW State Emergency Service 
• NSW Rural Fire Service 
• Fire and Rescue NSW 
• NSW Government emergency information 

Northern Territory (NT) 

• NT Emergency Service 
• SecureNT 

Queensland (QLD) 

• Queensland Fire Department 
• State Emergency Service 
• Get Ready Queensland 
• Queensland Disaster Management 
• Queensland Police Service 

South Australia (SA) 

• SA State Emergency Service 
• Country Fire Service 
• South Australian emergency information 

Tasmania (TAS) 

• Tasmania State Emergency Service 
• Tasmania Fire Service 
• TasALERT 

Victoria (VIC) 

• VicEmergency 
• Victoria State Emergency Service 
• Country Fire Authority 
• Emergency Management Victoria 

Western Australia (WA) 

• Department of Fire and Emergency Services 
• Emergency WA