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 he says will allow for greater access to essential support and services for defence personnel, veterans and families in the Northern Territory.
“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,” said Minister Keogh.
“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.”
This 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.
“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,” said Northern Territory Minister for Veterans Affairs, Paul Kirby.
“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.”
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.
