Recently, two team members from VHA were lucky enough to attend the opening of the Len Waters Apartments in Brisbane. It was a special day.
The apartments are named in honour of Warrant Officer Len Waters, the first Aboriginal fighter pilot to serve in the Royal Australian Air Force during WWII. Len flew 95 missions in the South West Pacific, and his story is one every Australian should know.
His daughter’s stories
Len’s daughter, Di Russell, shared some wonderful stories about her father’s service. It was moving to hear them first-hand and to see his legacy live on in a
Di opened the doors alongside Ben Roberts-Smith VC MG and Daniel Keighran VC.
Housing first
A representative speaking on behalf of Mrs Rinehart shared her message on the day. Her $200 million private commitment is the largest of its kind in Australia, and on its own it is still not enough.
Mrs Rinehart said what every veteran needs is “a secure home and productive activities.” She pointed to the gap before pensions start, and to the fact that veterans struggle to work without risking those pensions.
Her call to action was clear:
- Open unused defence accommodation to veterans.
- Let veterans work and keep their pensions.
Housing is the foundation, and nothing less will do.
Why it matters
At Veteran Housing Australia, our mission is to end veteran homelessness. Days like this show what’s possible when people come together to honour those who served by giving them a home.
Len Waters served his country with extraordinary courage. It’s a privilege to see his name now stand over a place where veterans can find stability and belong.
Listen to Veteran Housing Australia’s CEO, Robert Miller speak about the opening on 4BC below.
Want to help us house more veterans? Donate or get in touch at marketing@veteranhousing.org.au.
