11/03/2024 

THE HON MATT KEOGH MP

Minister for VETERANS' AFFAIRS

MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL

MERYL SWANSON MP

MEMBER FOR PATERSON

MEDIA RELEASE

Better support for veterans' and families in the hunter

22,000 veterans and their families across the Hunter region will soon receive better support, with today's announcement that a Veterans' and Families' Hub will be developed in Maitland, to support veterans near and far.

The Albanese Government is committed to providing the best services and supports possible for Defence personnel, veterans and families and this is another exciting step in the right direction.

Following a competitive application and business case process, today we can announce that a 46.7 million commitment to deliver ten new Veterans' and Families' Hubs across the country.

For more information about Veterans' and Families' Hubs, visit www.dva.gov.au/vfhubs

Quotes attributed to Matt Keogh, Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel;

"For more than 22,000 veterans and families across the Hunter region, today is a very exciting day, no longer will they need to travel long distances to access the services and supports they need and deserve."

"I'm so glad to see the consultation that's been undertaken with the local veteran community to make sure we get this right, we want to make sure this Hub is tailored to the unique needs of local veterans and families.

"Close to a number of Defence establishments, this Hub will support local veterans and families at every step of their journey, whilst in the Australian Defence Force, through transition and then provide ongoing support in civilian life."

Quotes attributed to Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson;

"The Paterson electorate is home to more than 7,200 veterans, one of the highest in NSW and I am excited to see this project being announced. The local veteran community and their families will benefit from a range of services available close to home to support their health and wellbeing, all delivered according to their unique needs.

"Any current serving Australian Defence Force members, veterans and families in the Paterson electorate and surrounding regions including Port Stephens, Maitland and Kurri Kurri will be able to access support from the Hub. I am proud to be announcing this today, as I stand side-by-side with our veterans."