Veterans’ Families Need Support Too

The need for support for veterans is undeniable and there are many organisations - like ours - that exist for just that reason. Carry On is focussed on inclusion and multi-generational support where families are concerned, as our support to them, enables them to be better support people to our veterans. From mental and emotional health conditions to recurring injuries, chronic pain, and lifelong disabilities, the burden can be significant. This is especially the case when the challenges of post-service life are ever-present in family life. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to come to terms with things, but their lived experience affects everyone in the family differently, so support for all is vital.

Multi-generational support

Carry On supports veterans themselves, as well as their dependants, across all divisions of the ADF community. This multi-generational approach acknowledges the lasting impact of experiences had during service, not only on the individual but also on their closest companions and family members. You can find out more about eligibility and how to apply for support here.

Financial hardship

Veterans and their families can access immediate relief in the form of $50 and $100 Essentials Cards for groceries, medicines, and clothing, as well as assistance with things like paying bills, arranging housing and donations of furniture, and covering other expenses like rehab, travel or funeral expenses. Those in immediate need due to financial hardship can call us and we’ll support them to get the help they need as quickly as possible.

Housing

In times of hardship, any one of us can find ourselves in circumstances we never anticipated. We have a range of housing support options for families, including almost 100 capped rent residential units across the state that we lease and manage for veterans. Veterans and their families can apply for housing, but we also help with other accommodation options they may be pursuing. We can coordinate furniture and appliance donations and transport and assist with housing bills if the family is experiencing difficulties.

Mental health support

We can connect family members with organisations such as Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling, to help navigate the complexities faced by ADF families and learn how to build and maintain healthy family relationships. Their counsellors are not only professionally trained but they are also selected for their understanding of military culture and, in some cases, their own experience with the ADF as serving members or family.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for any of these support options, the proof of service requirements or your application for support in general, please contact us – we are here to help.

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Financial hardship

In times of financial hardship, we can provide immediate relief. From paying household bills, to arranging housing, booking and paying for household repairs; coordinating donations of clothing, furniture, appliances and electrical equipment to covering rehabilitation, medical and travel expenses; or covering funeral expenses.
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Carry On head office is located at 172 Burwood Road Hawthorn VIC 3122
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