Over 300 veterans who leave the Australian Defence Force each year experience homelessness – 280% higher than the general population.
Although most veterans manage the transition to post-service life, there is a group whose acute needs are not being met. In the limited provision of veteran-specific homelessness services throughout Australia, and particularly in Victoria where no services currently exist, veterans are being supported by an overwhelmed mainstream approach, if they are being supported at all.
In light of this, ex-servicemen and women, with the support of Vasey RSL Care, are launching a campaign to help their homeless comrades in Australia. It comes at a crucial time, as the ongoing Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide continues to highlight the need for support for veterans and their families and the crucial nature of the transition from military to civilian life.
"This change from a structured military environment to a civilian lifestyle can result in a significant loss of identity, purpose and community for service personnel," says Janna Voloshin, CEO, Vasey RSL Care.
In partnership with the Australian Government, Vasey RSL Care is seeking to secure funding of $12.7 million dollars over three years to manage and operate an industry-first purpose-designed facility that will provide individualised housing and support services for veterans at a point of crisis and homelessness – The V Centre.
The V Centre will be in Melbourne and is the first step in a broader national engagement - a unique strategic initiative, based on service to the veteran community in their time of need, that presents an innovative and cost-effective solution to homelessness by providing stability and care, leading to improvement in the health and wellbeing of veterans and their families.
"The Australian Defence Force excels in integrating civilians into military life, and it is crucial for the same level of care to be provided for a smooth transition out of the military into civilian life," Janna Voloshin, CEO, Vasey RSL Care.
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Further Background:
A recent report highlights the devastating reality of veteran homelessness in the country, with demand for homeless services in Victoria increasing by 22% between 2015 and 2019. Similar increases are being reported across the nation and growing year-on-year. Over 300 veterans who leave the Australian Defence Force each year experience homelessness – 280% times that of the general population.
The 2021 Parliamentary Inquiry into Homelessness in Victoria revealed 5.3% of veterans who leave the Australian Defence Force each year experience homelessness, compared to only 1.9% of the general population. This disparity highlights the urgent need for targeted support and services for veterans who face limited access to specialist support services and dislocation from their communities, putting them at risk of harm.
Key Facts:
Veterans experience higher rates of homelessness than the general population - nearly three times higher.
Veteran suicide rates are higher than the general population.
These are men and women who have served our country and it is not acceptable.
Vasey RSL Care is seeking $12.7 million from federal government to operate a new veteran-specific homelessness program over its first three years - The V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program, aiming to help over 100 veterans over that time into permanent housing and independence.
About us:
Vasey RSL Care has a proud history of supporting veterans since the end of World War I and war widows since the end of World War II, through its two parent companies. Our Purpose is to 'Serve Those Who Served' and to provide the best possible standards of care and support, helping maintain independence and dignity, offering respect and kindness.
Vasey RSL Care provides a range of accommodation and services prioritising the ex-service community, including:
- Home Care: care in their own homes for older people
- Veteran Services: social housing and support for veterans and war widows of all ages
- Residential Aged Care: with a strong traditional focus on those who have served
