The Allan Labor Government is helping Victorian veterans build and strengthen their social connections and wellbeing, with funding to ensure the RSL Active program will continue for years to come.
Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman joined RSL Victoria President Dr Robert Webster on Wednesday to announce a further $300,000 in funding to support the RSL Active program for another three years.
RSL Active invites veterans and their families to participate in online and in-person events and activities to create and develop social networks, enhance support circles and achieve mental and physical health outcomes.
The program offers a variety of outdoor, music, art, sport and social activities and helps RSL sub-branches connect with veterans, undertake welfare checks and provide referrals to support services where needed.
Upcoming RSL Active events include art therapy in Altona, table tennis in Kyneton, clay target shooting in Wangaratta, go karting in Watsonia and a Melbourne Zoo Family Day Out.
There are 24 RSL sub-branches across Victoria that currently run RSL Active, with a further sub-branch in Lilydale expected to join the program this year.
Since June 2021, the program has supported almost 1000 veterans, with the number of RSL sub-branches engaged in the program increasing from five to 24 over that time.
RSL Active was launched in 2016, with more than $600,000 in funding from the Labor Government over the past five years and a further $300,000 from 2024/25.
This initiative is part of the Labor Government's broader commitment to support veterans and their families to thrive in their civilian lives, including through programs such as the Veterans Card - Victoria and the VPS Veterans Employment Strategy.
As stated by Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman
"Veterans have given so much for our state and nation - the RSL Active program is one way we're supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans, within a community who understands them and their experiences."
"Our continued support for RSL Active is about providing additional supports, engagement and opportunities to boost the health and wellbeing of our veterans."
"It's a significant opportunity for veterans and their families to develop their social networks and support circles, share ideas and experiences while also staying active."
As stated by RSL Victoria State President Dr Robert Webster OAM
"RSL Active has a significant impact in supporting veterans in Victoria since it was established and we are thrilled it will continue to build on its success with further funding from the Victorian Government."
