- Western Australia to recognise 15 May as Day of Recognition for Families of Veterans
- To honour the contribution, resilience, and sacrifice of defence families
- WA the second state in the nation to formally recognise this day
The Cook Labor Government will mark 15 May each year as the Day of Recognition for Families of Veterans, acknowledging the critical role loved ones play in supporting current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel.
Western Australia is only the second state in the nation to formally recognise this day, reflecting the State's strong commitment to honouring defence and veteran families.
Beside every serving member and veteran is a family providing stability, strength and support. This recognition highlights the often-unseen contribution families make to Australia's defence capability.
Defence families make significant personal sacrifices, navigating deployments, relocations and long periods of separation, while keeping households and communities strong.
The Day of Recognition for Families of Veterans aligns with the ADF's annual acknowledgement of defence families and falls within National Families Week.
It also responds to advocacy led by Defence Families of Australia on behalf of the defence community, seeking formal recognition of the essential role families play in supporting those who serve.
As stated by Veterans Minister Paul Papalia:
"Beside every serving member and veteran is a family carrying the load at home, and they deserved to be recognised.
"These loved ones make significant personal sacrifices and provide constant emotional and practical support to loved ones navigating the physical and psychological impacts of service.
"This day is about acknowledging the resilience, sacrifice and quiet strength of defence families because they serve too, just in a different way."
As stated by Legacy WA president Steve Stoll:
"Legacy WA warmly welcomes the establishment ofVeterans' Families Day as an opportunity for public recognition and gratitude.
"On 15 May, we encourage the community to join us in recognising these often-hidden heroes. Their sacrifice is profound, their contribution enduring, and they deserve our sincere and public thanks.
As stated by Defence Families of Australia WA delegate Tanya Wright:
"For many families, this recognition is deeply personal. It validates the challenges they've faced and the strength they've shown through every stage of service life.
"We hope this day encourages greater community understanding of the unique experiences and challenges faced by our nation's defence families."
