The need for support for veterans is undeniable and there are many organisations – like ours – that exist for just that reason. Carry on is focused 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 great. This is especially the case when the challenges of post-service life are ever-present in daily family life. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to come to terms with things, but their lived experience affects everyone in the family in different ways, so support for all is vital.

Multi-generational support

Carry On supports veterans themselves, as well as their partners, children, and grandchildren 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.

Education

We are passionately dedicated to supporting education for current and future generations of veterans’ families. We provide financial support for everyday school expenses such as uniforms, bags, books, transport and school camps and excursions. We also offer education grants and scholarships to cover secondary and tertiary education costs.

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 get in touch with us – we are here to help.