Veterans' and Families' Hub opens in the Top End

Support services for veterans and families in the Top End have been boosted today with the opening of a Veterans’ and Families’ Hub in Stuart Park, adding to veteran services already being delivered by Mates4Mates in Palmerston.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh officially opened the Hub that will allow for greater access to essential support and services for defence personnel, veterans and families in the Northern Territory.

This fantastic new hub, officially named the Mates4Mates Veteran and Family Wellbeing Centre, will provide local veterans and families with assistance around transition, employment, advocacy services and mental and physical health.

Mates4Mates is already operating from a site in Palmerston and will work closely with other providers that will be co-located in the customised facility, including Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling, Soldier On and Kookaburra Kids Foundation.

In partnership with the Australian Government, the care Mates4Mates provides will be enhanced through the Hub network as best practice strategies are shared and implemented.

For more information on the Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs, please visit www.dva.gov.au/vfhubs

Quotes attributed to Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh

“Knowing the difference Mates4Mates has already made in the community, I am looking forward to seeing the Hub enhance the services and support available to local veterans and families.

“Veterans’ and Families’ Hubs are about bringing together the coordination of services, in a place that is welcoming to the veteran community, that supports the families who support veterans.

“Our rollout of Veterans’ & Families Hubs across the country builds a strong foundation for a better future for our veterans.”

Quotes attributed to Member for Solomon Luke Gosling

“We have veterans throughout our community, in the private sector and in the public service, such as firefighters, police and ambulance.”

“Veterans deserve excellent support services and that’s what this Hub will provide.”

“We value our veterans and work to give them every possible mental and other health support to keep them connected and have a sense of belonging in our Northern capital city.”

Quotes attributed to Chief Minister for the Northern Territory Natasha Fyles

“The Mates4Mates Centre provides access to a safe space for veterans – some of our most respected and valued community members.

“The Northern Territory Government will continue to work to ensure those leaving the ADF, who have served for the betterment of our country, can transition as smoothly as possible into civilian life.”

Quotes attributed to Northern Territory Minister for Veterans Affairs Paul Kirby

“The official opening of the Mates4Mates Veterans Centre is a significant day for our defence and veterans community, ensuring their voice is heard and they have access to the services they need.

“This facility is undoubtedly a centrepiece for veterans’ wellbeing in the Top End. The Northern Territory Government is committed to continuing the work with our Federal counterparts and all organisations to improve the employment opportunities, the health and wellbeing of Veterans right across the country.”

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