THE new Hunter Veterans’ and Families’ Hub was officially opened on Tuesday, 17 March, offering support to the 22,000 current and former serving veterans and their families who call the Hunter home.
Located at 48 Ken Tubman Drive in Maitland, the Hub is centrally situated for Australian Defence Force personnel based at the Singleton Military Area, Bullecourt Barracks and RAAF Base Williamtown.
“Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs make a real difference to the wellbeing of current and former serving veterans, which is why we are expanding the network,” said Matt Keogh, Minister for Veterans Affairs.
“The Hunter Hub is not just a one-stop shop for practical support services for things like health, housing and career transition, but a home base for community, connection and family fun.”
The Hub will offer targeted support to veterans, with two service navigation and community engagement staff and a dedicated Claims Adviser to provide claims and advocacy assistance.
It also includes a welcoming space for veterans and families, with a dedicated children’s play area and outdoor space.
Open Arms will provide peer support through the Hub, and Invictus Australia have partnered with RSL LifeCare to deliver a range of activities.
The Hub will also create more opportunities for connection, including coffee catch-ups, yoga sessions and BBQs alongside other activities to be introduced over the coming months.
RSL LifeCare was awarded a $5.45 million grant to deliver the Hub.
It has partnered with RSL NSW to bolster the services available to veterans and their families in the wider Hunter community, as part of a regional ‘hub and spoke’ network.
The Hub and its service offering were designed following extensive consultations with the local veteran community, to ensure it meets the Hunter’s needs.
Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said, “We have one of the largest veteran communities in NSW – and the new Hunter Veterans’ and Families’ Hub will provide a dedicated space where veterans and their families can connect, access support services and feel part of a community that understands their experiences.
“This purpose-built facility reflects a strong partnership between the Australian Government, RSL NSW, RSL LifeCare and our community, all working together to better support those who have served our nation.”
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