Veterans in Far North Queensland are one step closer to having access to dedicated in-house emotional and mental health support, improving access to care for challenges such as social isolation, housing insecurity, and financial hardship.
Cairns Regional Council has approved an agreement grant lease to Far North Queensland Legacy Club Inc (FNQ Legacy) as the first step towards developing FNQ's first Legacy House, a dedicated facility providing integrated support services for veterans and their families.
At today's Ordinary Meeting, Council resolved to enter into an Agreement to Grant Lease with FNQ Legacy over part of Council's freehold land at 60-80 Leisure Park Road, Smithfield, for a term of up to 30 years, paving the way for the $5 million community project to progress.
Mayor Amy Eden, who is the wife of a Navy veteran and a proud Legacy Centenary Ambassador, said the decision reflects deep respect for the service and sacrifice of Defence families.
"Far North Queensland has the highest proportion of veterans in Australia, and this project is both much needed and long overdue," Mayor Eden said.
"Legacy exists because service has a cost. It is for the families left behind, the partners, the children, the parents and the loved ones who carry the weight of that sacrifice every day. When a veteran loses their life or their health in service to our country, Legacy steps in to ensure their families are not left to walk alone. That is what this house represents. It is a promise kept."
"Legacy House will be a place of refuge and respect. It will bring together practical services and emotional support under one roof, from counselling and crisis accommodation to connection and care, so that no family is ever forgotten," Mayor Eden said.
The project directly responds to findings from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, which identified a critical need for family-focused support services.
"This project honours not just the courage of those who served, but the quiet strength of those who waited, grieved and rebuilt. It is about showing our veterans' families that their sacrifice continues to be seen and valued by the city they helped protect," Mayor Eden said.
After extensive investigation into possible sites, FNQ Legacy identified a preferred location within the Smithfield Leisure Precinct, adjacent to the Smithfield Library.
Council officers confirmed the proposal will not significantly impact the Smithfield Leisure Precinct Masterplan, endorsed in 2017.
Under the terms of the Agreement, FNQ Legacy will undertake community consultation to demonstrate public support for the project before continuing their funding advocacy preparation of a development application, and future tenure.
Division 8 Councillor Rhonda Coghlan said the project is a long-overdue step forward for veterans' support in the Far North.
"The Royal Commission made it clear that more must be done to support veterans and their families. With more than 11,000 veterans calling our region home, this project is long overdue. Legacy House will make a real difference in people's lives," Cr Coghlan said.
Mayor Amy Eden said the project aligns strongly with Council's broader community vision.
