What is chaplaincy? 

Chaplaincy is support for your emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. This is sometimes referred to as pastoral care. Such support is not necessarily religious in nature, it is just the kind of care often provided by family, friends or good neighbours.  

DVA Veterans’ chaplains are all former ADF padres. They know first-hand the challenges of service life and can assist in a completely confidential manner. 

Chaplains are trained to listen and support people through hard times, including grief, major life changes, stress and uncertainty. They offer a safe and private space to talk about what matters to you, without judgement or pressure. 

You do not need to be a religious person or exploring faith to speak with a chaplain. Chaplaincy is open to people of all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds, including people with no religious belief. They are there to assist you in any way they can, not to push any faith agenda. 

For veterans and families of veterans, chaplaincy support may be available through programs such as the Veterans’ Chaplaincy Pilot Program. Availability may vary depending on where you live and which services operate in your area. DVA Veterans’ Chaplains are currently located in Brisbane, Townsville and Perth, but can also help by phone, email or teleconference. 

How chaplaincy can help 

Chaplains can support people through many life challenges, including: 

• Major life changes, including leaving the ADF and adjusting to civilian life 
• Grief and loss, including losing someone important to you or changes in your sense of self or purpose 
• Stress, anxiety or uncertainty, especially during difficult or high-pressure times 
• Processing difficult experiences from service, including morally or ethically challenges that continue to affect your wellbeing 
• Relationship or family challenges, including strain at home or changes in family roles 
• Serious illness or end-of-life care, for yourself or someone close to you 
• Matters concerning religious faith, including connection with a local faith community if that is important to you 

Chaplains can also help you make sense of what you are going through, feel more connected, and reflect on what matters most to you. 

What to expect 

When you speak with a Chaplain, you can expect: 

• A listening ear, without judgement 
• Private and respectful support in a safe space 
• Support that suits you, whether you want spiritual support, practical help or someone to talk to 
• Help with difficult feelings or decisions 
• Connection to other services, if you need more support 

Chaplains do not try to fix everything or push their beliefs. Their role is to support you in a way that feels right for you. 

Why chaplaincy matters for veterans and families of veterans 

Many veterans already know chaplains from their time in service. Chaplains have long supported ADF members and families, especially during difficult or stressful times. 

For some people, leaving service can mean losing a trusted source of support. Community chaplaincy services aim to continue that support during times of change, crisis or adjustment. 

Chaplaincy can be one part of your wider support network, alongside counselling, peer support and other wellbeing services. 

How chaplaincy fits into your wellbeing 

Wellbeing is about your whole life, not only your physical or mental health. 

Chaplaincy can support the parts of wellbeing linked to meaning, values and connection. It can help you: 

• make sense of your experiences 
• stay connected to your values and sense of self 
• feel supported during difficult times 
• find purpose and direction 
• help you connect with a community that is right for you 

This can be especially helpful during times of change, loss or uncertainty. 

Getting support 

Chaplaincy support may be available through: 

• Veteran support organisations 
• Ex-service organisations (ESOs) 
• Community or faith-based services 
• Programs such as the Veterans’ Chaplaincy Pilot Program 

If you are not sure where to start, you can explore support options in your area or speak with another service, such as counselling or peer support. 

Support is available 

Talking to someone, whether that is a chaplain, counsellor, peer or other support service, can help you feel supported and less alone.