NSW Veterans Strategy and Action Plan 2025-2030

According to the 2021 Census, almost 130,000 veterans live in NSW, with nearly 60 per cent residing in regional areas. 

The Strategy sets out a whole-of-government and whole-of-community approach, emphasising a collaborative effort involving various government departments and community organisations to support the needs of veterans and their families. 

The aim is to ensure that veterans and their families receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for all. 

Some of the key topics covered in the Strategy cover:

• Recognition and commemoration of veterans, including initiatives to Honor the service and sacrifice that commemorate veterans’ services through events including ANZAC Day.
• Employment and training for veterans and their spouses/partners to assist with resources to assist in employment.
• Advocacy and community engagement to ensure better coordination within NSW and across Australia to support veterans everywhere.
• Provide specific support for veterans with additional challenges such as mental health care.

Some of the initiatives that underpin the strategy include:

1. Veterans Employment Program (VEP) — a program that helps veterans apply for public sector jobs.
2. Ranks to Recognition Program — supports veterans to obtain civilian qualifications through TAFE NSW. Since its launch in 2021, the program has supported 1897 veterans.
3. Legal Aid’s Veterans’ Advocacy Service — provides free legal advice and representation for veterans.
4. National Centre for Veterans’ Healthcare (NCVH) — offers holistic and coordinated clinical care integrated with physical and mental health care services.
5. Rent Choice Veterans — a rental subsidy available to eligible veterans and their families.
6. Veteran Assistance Dog Program — Bathurst inmates train dogs to support veterans with physical and mental health needs.

The Strategy will be evaluated biennially, with regular consultation with key stakeholders. The strategy can be found here.