Vasey RSL Care, an organisation for veterans, has responded to Channel Nine’s story on veteran homelessness in Australia.
“As a leading provider of housing and support services for veterans, we’d like to acknowledge Channel Nine’s recent feature story on the issue of veteran homelessness in Australia,” their statement reads.
“As an organisation dedicated to supporting veterans in need, we recognise the importance of raising awareness on this critical issue.”
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The report highlighted the alarming statistics of veterans experiencing homelessness. According to Vasey RSL Care, over 300 veterans who leave the Australian Defence Force each year experience homelessness – a rate 280% higher than the general population.
While Defence excels in integrating civilians into military life, Vasey RSL Care states that it is crucial for the same level of care to be provided for a smooth transition out of the military into civilian life.
“We urge the Australian government and the wider community to recognise the issue of veteran homelessness and take action to address it,” they said.
“Our veterans deserve our utmost respect and support, and we must work together to ensure they receive the care and assistance they need.”
Vasey RSL Care is currently looking to partner with the Australian Government to secure funding of $12.7 million dollars over three years to manage and operate a program to address the gap for veterans who are in need of emergency services.
The organisation proposes an industry-first purpose-designed facility called “The V Centre” which will provide individualised housing as well as support services for veterans at a point of crisis and homelessness.
The V Centre will be in Melbourne and is the first step in a broader national engagement that presents an innovative and cost-effective solution to homelessness by providing stability and care for the health and well-being of veterans and their families.
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“The federal government announced the $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund back in 2021. While this was a welcomed announcement, there are complexities with the timing and administration of this fund,” Vasey RSL Care said.
“When looking at the veterans interviewed in Channel Nine’s coverage, it is evident that lives are at risk, and we need to act now. Securing $12.7 million in federal funding now will allow us to move quickly to start closing the housing gap for Australia’s veterans.”