VHA Blog

Remembrance Day, observed annually on November 11th, holds great significance for Australians as it commemorates the sacrifices made by their armed forces during times of war. This day is a solemn reminder that freedom and peace come at a cost. It also presents an opportunity for rituals that ensure the

For the past 76 years, the World Health Organisation has been recognising one of the most critical aspects of being human – our health. World Health Day is celebrated on 7th April every year, with annual themes that put some of the key issues in the spotlight – from heart

Christmas is often portrayed as a time of joy, love, and togetherness. However, for many individuals, especially veterans, it can also be a time of intense loneliness and isolation and staying connected can be challenging. Many are dealing with the absence or loss of loved ones, and a sense of

As we count down to ANZAC Day, we reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served. Throughout history, our veterans have faced incredible challenges, and today, many still need our support. A Legacy of Sacrifice From the trenches of Gallipoli to modern-day peacekeeping missions, veterans have always

In Australia, around 12 out of 100 people will experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives. PTSD can affect anyone who has undergone traumatic events such as serious accidents, natural disasters, or assaults. War veterans, however, face a higher risk of PTSD compared to the general

What does supporting veterans mean to you personally? Supporting veterans holds profound personal significance for me. While I may not have served in the Australian Defence Force, the sense of duty, sacrifice, and commitment to our country that veterans embody deeply resonates with me. I believe that after risking their

On the 20th of September this year, a commemorative service will be held to mark the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste. Hosted by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the service will be held at the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial in Canberra and televised nationally on ABC TV. Australia has

On the first Wednesday of September each year, commemorations are held to recognise close-to-home events of World War II, collectively named the ‘Battle for Australia’. This relatively new day of commemoration was established in 2008 for what previously had been a largely under-recognised part of the global conflict that was

National PTSD Awareness Day, on June 27th, serves as a critical reminder of the mental health challenges faced by many, especially our veterans. PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, affects a significant portion of Australian veterans, with studies showing that around 8.3% of Australian veterans experience PTSD compared to 5.2% of