Veterans information and services
NSW Office for Veterans Affairs
The NSW Office for Veterans Affairs (OVA) manages state programs commemorating and assisting veterans and their families in collaboration with all NSW Government agencies, the Australian Government and community stakeholders. OVA also leads heritage and commemoration activities, and targeted programs and grants that support veterans to access employment and education opportunities that are critical for long-term wellbeing.
OVA is responsible for ensuring delivery of the NSW Government's first Veterans Strategy 2021–24 and is the key area of coordination and knowledge for the NSW contribution to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
While OVA provides services in NSW, DVA has responsibility for programs and services to veterans and their families across Australia.
DVA
The Commonwealth Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provides support and services to the veteran community, providing services including health care, income support, compensation, and other support arrangements. More information can be found on the DVA website or by calling 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).
Service NSW
Visit the Service NSW website to learn more about programs and concessions available to veterans in NSW.
Ex-Service Organisations
Click below to find out more from the various Ex-Service Organisations within NSW.
2021 ABS Census
In the 2021 Census, a new Australian Defence Force (ADF) service question was asked which captured whether a person was currently serving or had previously served in the ADF. OVA has analysed some of the data, outlining results by region.
Find out more information about veterans in NSW here.
NSW Government Veterans Employment Program (VEP)
VEP supports veterans with tools to assist with their Public Sector job search as they transition to civilian life.
Support Services
If you, or someone you know, need assistance or support, you can contact:
- Open Arms — Ph 1800 011 046
Provides free and confidential counselling to anyone who has served at least one day in the ADF, and their families. - Soldier On — Ph 1300 620 380
Offers free programs and services to provide the tools and support you and your family need to lead a meaningful civilian life. - Defence All-hours Support Line — Ph 1800 624 608
A confidential telephone service for ADF members and their families that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. - Safe Zone Support (Afghanistan veterans support line) — Ph 1800 142 072
An anonymous counselling service that supports serving members, veterans and their families, with specialist counsellors that have a specific understanding to help those impacted by the unrest in Afghanistan. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. - Lifeline Australia — Ph 13 11 14
A national charity that provides all Australians with 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. - Suicide Call Back Service — Ph 1300 659 467
Free counselling for suicide prevention & mental health via telephone, online & video for anyone affected by suicidal thoughts: 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Other NSW Government services and programs
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Get HealthyThe NSW Get Healthy Service is a free, phone-based health coaching service to help NSW adults over 16 years of age set and achieve their own health goals with the support and guidance of an expert health coach. |
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Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)If you are having issues with alcohol or other drugs, are concerned about someone else's alcohol or other drug use, or just have general questions about alcohol or other drugs, you can call ADIS any time of the day or week for support, information, counselling and referral to services in NSW. They have a 24-hour support line :1800 250 015. There's also an ADIS Web Chat service available 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. |
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Using Crown ReservesThere are over 400 Crown Reserves listed in a new directory many of which are for public and recreation purposes. The directory has an interactive map and provides information on the facilities available and the activities undertaken on the reserve. |
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Veterans' Advocacy ServiceLegal Aid NSW can help veterans and their dependants with advice and representation. Legal Aid can also help lodge DVA claims and appeals to the Veterans' Review Board, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and the Federal Court. |