RSL WA to develop Rockingham Veterans’ and Families’ Hub

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh and Federal Member for Brand Madeleine King today have announced a $5.445 million grant for a new Veterans' and Families’ Hub in Rockingham will be provided to RSL WA, following a competitive application and business case process.

RSL WA will lead the establishment of the new Rockingham Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in consortium with a number of ex-service, first responder and health-focused organisations. 

Home to the largest Naval base in the country – HMAS Stirling – and more than 8,000 veterans and their families living locally, the development of a Hub will enable the veteran community better access to the services and supports they need, close to home. 

The multipurpose Hub, to be established in Rockingham, will have a network of five spokes inclusive of RSL Sub Branches, the Marilla Community Centre in Rockingham, the Veteran Transition Centre in Jarrahdale, the Australian Special Air Services Association of WA Mental Health Centre near the SASR’s Barracks in Swanbourne, and a new Eco Cabin development in Point Peron. 

The central multipurpose Hub will be modelled on the existing ANZAC House Hub in Perth’s CBD. Headquartered with RediMed in Rockingham, this will provide access to professional medical services, case coordination and community connection.  

This “hub and spoke” model will provide the opportunity for enhanced community activities and services, mental health support, accommodation and respite. 

The expansion of the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs network in Perth’s southwest is part of the Government’s $46.7 million commitment to deliver ten new Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs across the country.

The Albanese Government is committed to providing the best services and supports possible for Defence personnel, veterans and families. 

For more information about Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs, visit the DVA website.

Quotes attributed to Matt Keogh, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel;

“RSL WA has a long history of supporting veterans and families in Perth through ANZAC House. Working alongside specialist ex-service, community and medical organisations will further enhance the services and supports available to the veteran community here in WA.

Each veteran community around the country is different so it’s essential we’re developing Hubs that provide targeted support, not taking a cookie-cutter approach. 

The consultation undertaken with the local community in the development of the business case and the collaboration that’s gone into establishing this Rockingham Veterans’ and Families’ Hub consortium gives me confidence they’ll be able to deliver a Hub, with spokes, that fits the needs of the local community.” 

Quotes attributed to Member for Brand, Madeleine King; 

“Rockingham is rightly very proud of its veteran community and it is important we provide every support to those who have done so much to protect our country and way of life.

“As the home of the largest Royal Australian Navy base in the country, this Veterans’ and Families’ Hub will continue to help Defence personnel who make Rockingham their home long after their service comes to an end.

“I am very proud that the Albanese Government is making good on its commitment to support veterans and their families with practical measures.”

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608