RSL LifeCare secures $1.7 million funding to establish Central Coast Veteran and Family Hub and $243,000 for a centre at Bardia Barracks

RSL LifeCare has received $1.7 million in funding from the Albanese Government’s Veteran Wellbeing Grants One-Off Program to establish a veteran and family hub-like experience on the Central Coast region – a home to an estimated 7,993 veterans.

The significant grant will be put towards leasing and fitting out a purpose-built property in the Wyong area. The facility will go a long way in expanding veteran support network in the Central Coast region, as well as enabling RSL LifeCare with support from RSL NSW, to deliver dedicated services required by veterans and their families as determined by community engagement.

Commenting on the announcement, The Hon Emma McBride MP, Member of Parliament for Dobell,” said “The Central Coast is home to a significant veteran community, and this grant will improve access to services and supports, close to home.

“RSL LifeCare has been delivering for our veterans’ community for years, and I’m proud that the Albanese Labor Government is supporting their work here”.

James Dallas, Head of RSL LifeCare Veteran Wellbeing Centres, said, “The Veteran Wellbeing Grants One-Off Program highlights the Albanese Government’s continued commitment to veterans and their families. This investment will enable RSL LifeCare to expand our network of Veteran Wellbeing Centres, addressing the specific needs of veterans and their families on the Central Coast.”

The Veteran Wellbeing Grants One-Off Program was established to complement and build on the Government’s existing Veterans’ and Families’ Hub program. Through the grants, the Government provided almost $17 million in funding towards 21 projects that can be swiftly implemented to address the immediate needs of veterans and their families in critical areas.

The new RSL LifeCare Central Coast Veteran and Family Hub is expected to open by July 2024 and employ staff who will provide support services to veterans and their families.

In addition to the Central Coast grant, RSL LifeCare was awarded $243,000 to enable the Planning Phase (Phase 1) of the purpose-built Bardia Barracks Veterans’ and Families’ Hub Project to be completed. This involves delivering a design for the Bardia Barracks site and all package documentation to enable the lodgement of a Development Application with the Local Council for approval.

As part of the Albanese Government’s Veterans Wellbeing Grants One-Off program, RSL LifeCare was also awarded $520,341 to enhance the services and facilities offered at our Riverina Veteran Wellbeing Centre.

To learn more about our Veteran Wellbeing Centres, click here.