Strengthening veteran support across the sector

With a collective focus on collaboration and connection, the 100 attendees from a range of ex-service and veteran support organisations came together in Brisbane to hear from key stakeholders from across the sector, all driven by the common goal of improving the lives of veterans and their families. 

The VFWN Forum provides an avenue for both Defence and government agencies to engage with the wider veteran support system and provide critical updates relevant to the legislative and health system that supports Australia’s veteran community. 

[From L - R] Emma Campbell, Senior Manager, Partnerships – RSL Queensland; Brendan Cox, CEO – Legacy Brisbane; Dr Sanket Raut MBBS PhD, GMR Research Lead – Gallipoli Medical Research; Peta McKinnon, Acting Deputy Commissioner QLD – DVA; Margaret Jenyns, Director – The Institute of Veterans' Advocacy (IVA); John Lowis, Acting President – Defence Force Welfare Association (QLD); Nick Booth MVO, Special Advisor – National ESO Peak Body Project; Katie Maloney, General Manager, Strategic Partnerships & Research – RSL Queensland; and Jeff McLean – Buddy Up Australia and Australian Commando Association.

Presentations covered a variety of topics which included updates from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs relating to the National ESO Peak Body, Federal Budget funding changes and the introduction of the Veterans’ Entitlements, Treatment and Support (VETS) Act. 

Other talks included membership details for the Institute of Veterans' Advocacy (IVA), details on the Senate Committee’s findings on superannuation and pension schemes by the Defence Force Welfare Association, Gallipoli Medical Research’s findings on optimising safe prescription of medicine in veterans, and an update on Legacy House opening later this year in Greenslopes, Brisbane.

RSL Queensland General Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Research, Katie Maloney says the Forum continues to provide a valuable space for veteran service and community organisations, regardless of size, to come together, connect, and strengthen their capacity to support veterans and the wider Defence community in an evolving environment.

“In 2026, our sector is facing a significant evolution with many of the recommendations of the Royal Commission being enacted from 1 July. Our sector is relied upon to deliver extensive social services to both veterans and their families and carers, while also understanding the changing legislative environment and ways of working with government agencies.”

The next VFWN Forum is set to be held in November 2026.