OUR MISSION

Young Veterans has one goal, enrich the lives of Australian veterans, empowering them to progress and succeed in life after service.

The young men and women of our Australian Defence Force have a history of willingly answering the call to help those across the globe who are in peril or in dire need of assistance.

They do this without question and in many times with great personal sacrifice. Whether that be leaving behind their families and loved ones, or being in harm’s way to ensure the safety of others – it’s all in a days work for them.

For many people life beyond the military is good and there is little social, psychological or physical problems. But what of those that struggle?

What of its toll on them as individuals?

This is why Young Veterans was created.

Young Veterans is a community hub for our nation’s heroes to come together and share a common bond.

Our community isn’t necessarily about reminiscing about service times or who has ‘done what’, it is about moving forward, re-engaging and inspiring young veterans to achieve and succeed beyond active duty.

Young Veterans was started as a movement by veteran mates who recognised that there was a gap between recent veterans and those of past conflicts. These mates couldn’t stand by and watch the same issues that plagued the veterans of the Vietnam War happen again.

Over the past few years our community has grown rapidly across Australia, offering activities, fundraising and social opportunities for our comrades. The key to our growth is the agility and preparedness to go beyond the normal business rules, breaking the mould of previous ESOs and actually going to where the support is needed.

Whether You’re a Veteran or a Civilian, You Have a Role to Play

Young Veterans is 100% volunteer run and operated. We’re passionate about what we do and how we do it. We pride ourselves on proposing ideas and following through.

Attend an Event

Find a local event to attend today.
Young Veterans is inclusive for everyone.

ATTEND A LOCAL EVENT

Donate

Donations make our programs possible.
Your support saves Australian lives.

DONATE NOW

Volunteer

Young Veterans is always on the look out
for supporters looking to lend a hand.

VOLUNTEER TODAY

Hear from some Young Veterans

“I arrived at a Young Veterans meet up and sat in the car for awhile unable to get out. When I saw the group of people with the flag I was nervous but forced myself out of the car. Now I look back it was the best decision I’ve made since getting out of the Navy. I feel like I have some mates again, something to do and I’ve joined the gym and train with the guys. It’s helped me start again.”

Scott, 38

”My wife pestered me to come to a meet up and whilst I didn’t think I’d enjoy it I actually met a few blokes I’d served with and they were having similar issues to me, I thought I was the only one. Just that information has helped me recover.”

Jim, 30

”I had heard about Young Veterans but didn’t know much about it. I arrived with my kids and everyone was happy to help me out with them. I was able to go out for a surf without worrying about my kids which was unexpected and I had a great time chatting about my DVA claims as I didn’t know how to get started.”

Sarah, 35

”I thought I wasn’t a ‘real veteran’ because I hadn’t gone overseas. I didn’t think I belonged anywhere, I wouldn’t attend ANZAC Day even though I did 12 years service. I felt I didn’t have enough medals and I hadn’t done enough. Young Veterans has given me the confidence to be proud of my service. I will attend ANZAC Day for the first time since serving and stand tall this year. ”

Matt, 40

“I hadn’t left the house much, didn’t feel like anyone understood what I was going through. I attended one event and at least have made connections on Facebook, I get out and go fishing with some of the guys and that’s been the thing that has gotten me through the last few months.”

Sam, 29

”When I came with my husband and kids to Young Veterans we were on the verge of homelessness. With credit cards we couldn’t pay and both in and out of sick leave with injuries. I had no idea we could put in claims with DVA. Young Veterans had advocates on the ground who spoke to me and took the time to have ongoing meetings about our financial situation. I can’t even begin to describe how life changing Young Veterans have been for us.”

Samantha, 33

OUR PARTNERS

We could not run without the donations of businesses and individuals who believe in what we do.