North Coast Veteran and Family Hub officially opens, expanding support for veterans and families

RSL LifeCare in partnership with RSL NSW has officially celebrated the opening of the North Coast Veteran and Family Hub in Tweed Heads, marking an important milestone for veterans and their families across the New South Wales North Coast. 

The official opening brought together veterans, their families, community partners and leaders from across the veteran sector to recognise the opening of a dedicated new space designed to provide support, connection and wellbeing services closer to home. 

The Hub was officially opened by Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, The Hon. Matt Keogh MP, alongside the Member for Richmond, The Hon. Justine Elliot MP, highlighting the strong partnership between the Australian Government, RSL NSW and RSL LifeCare in delivering improved outcomes for veterans and their families. 

Located in Tweed Heads, the North Coast Veteran and Family Hub will support more than 25,000 current and former Australian Defence Force members and their families who call the region home. 

The opening also recognised the national Veterans’ and Families’ Hub program, delivered by RSL LifeCare in partnership with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and RSL NSW. Through a $5.5 million Australian Government investment, the North Coast Hub has been established as a dedicated place where veterans and families can access support, connect with their community and build meaningful relationships. 

Speaking at the opening, Minister Keogh highlighted what the new Hub means for the region’s veteran community. 

“Veterans and their families love the lifestyle benefits on offer at the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast, and now with the North Coast Hub opening they get to live where they love with the supports, they need close to home.” 

He said the Hub would provide both practical support and opportunities for connection. 

“The North Coast Hub can help with pragmatic issues getting a claim into DVA, but it’s also a place for the veteran community to connect with each other in a relaxed social setting.” 

Designed with input from the veteran community, the Hub brings together a broad range of services and programs including wellbeing support, advocacy, employment assistance, financial counselling, claims support and opportunities for social connection. 

During the official proceedings, RSL LifeCare Chief Veteran Services Officer, David Anderson, reflected on the importance of connection, belonging and community in supporting veterans and their families. 

“While every service journey is different, the importance of support, connection and community is universal. Today, we are opening a hub that strengthens all three.” 

North Coast Veteran and Family Hub Manager Michael McGovern said the Hub had already been embraced by the local veteran community. 

“We’ve seen first-hand how important it is for veterans and families to have a place where they feel welcome, understood and connected. This Hub gives people a place to come together, access support and build relationships that make a real difference 

The opening of the North Coast Veteran and Family Hub reinforces RSL LifeCare’s ongoing commitment, in partnership with RSL NSW, to standing alongside veterans and their families. It also reflects our focus on making support across the region more accessible, trusted and enduring.